A collaborative taskforce was set up, including members from the Australian Federal Police, ASIO, Queensland Police, and New Zealand Police, after the National Liberation Army of West Papua abducted Phillip Mehrtens in the Indonesian region in February 2023.

Mehrtens was taken after landing a small aircraft at a remote airstrip at Paro Airport and held for 592 days before being released in September 2024.

The 64-year-old suspect faces charges related to exporting restricted goods, conspiring to traffic illegal firearms or firearm components from Australia, illegally supplying weapons, and possessing a controlled substance.

He is facing up to 55 years’ imprisonment.

The 44-year-old was charged with exporting tier 2 goods and possessing explosives without authority, which could see him jailed for almost 11 years.

The pair have appeared before court and have been granted bail to both face the Brisbane Magistrates Court on October 17.

“This investigation was complex, involving multiple jurisdictions and challenges, and our primary concern was ensuring the safe return of Philip Mehrtens,” stated New Zealand Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Mike Pannett.