Papuaaround.com – Australian authorities have arrested and charged two men accused of attempting to export firearms and military equipment to the West Papua National Liberation Army–Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM). The separatist group previously claimed responsibility for abducting New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens, who was held hostage in Papua for more than 18 months.
Mehrtens, a Susi Air pilot, was captured in February 2023 after landing a small aircraft at Paro Airport in Papua’s highlands. He was released in September last year after being held for 592 days, an incident that drew global attention to the region’s ongoing conflict.
The arrests followed a two-year counterterrorism investigation conducted jointly by Australian and New Zealand authorities. Officials said evidence pointed to a man from Queensland and another from New South Wales being involved in attempts to trade weapons and sensitive equipment.
Both suspects now face multiple charges, including conspiracy to export firearms and parts, unlawful provision of weapons, and conspiracy to export controlled items classified as “Tier 2 goods.” Under Australian law, such offenses carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Authorities executed search warrants at the men’s residences in November 2024, where they reportedly seized a range of items, including 13.6 kilograms of mercury. Police further alleged that the Queensland-based suspect unlawfully possessed explosives. Meanwhile, the man from New South Wales was charged with conspiracy to export firearms, illegal weapons supply, and possession of a controlled substance.
The two men have been released on bail and are scheduled to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on October 17.
Assistant Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Stephen Nutt, stressed that law enforcement would not tolerate firearms trafficking. “Anyone involved in the illegal trade of weapons from Australia with the intent of supplying them to foreign groups should be on notice. AFP and our partners are committed to stopping this activity,” he said.
Queensland Police Assistant Commissioner Heath Hutchings echoed the message, describing the investigation as the result of strong cooperation between local, national, and international agencies. “This operation sends a clear warning: those who profit from the illegal firearms trade will be identified and prosecuted,” he stated.
New Zealand Deputy Police Commissioner Mike Pannett also highlighted the cross-border collaboration. He noted that while Mehrtens’ release had brought relief, the case underscored the need for close regional cooperation to protect communities.
Despite the charges, TPNPB-OPM denied any connection with the alleged weapons supply. Group spokesperson Sebby Sambom insisted that no weapons had ever been received from Australian nationals. “The TPNPB operates under strict protocols. We have never officially obtained weapons from Australian citizens. These accusations are baseless,” he said in a statement.
The case remains ongoing, with authorities emphasizing the broader implications of arms trafficking networks in the Pacific region.