Indonesian hostages freed in PNG

Two Indonesian hostages kidnapped close to the border of Papua New Guinea and West Papua have been freed.

Papua New Guinean authorities have rescued two Indonesian men held hostage close to the country's border with West Papua.

It's believed West Papuan rebels kidnapped the men last week.

PNG Defence personnel have freed the men and they are receiving medical attention, Prime Minister Peter O'Neill confirmed in a statement.

This was a serious situation that is believed to involve the deaths of at least one other Indonesian national over a period of a week, Mr O'Neill said.

He said the men will soon be returned to Indonesia.

Mr O'Neill has been in contact with Indonesian President Joko Widodo throughout the rescue operation and agencies in both countries had shared information.

He said it would be inappropriate to comment further until other matters were resolved.


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Source: AAP


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