An Australian-based archaeologist and two Papua New Guinea citizens who were taken hostage by armed criminals in a remote area of Papua New Guinea have been safely released after several days in captivity.
Bryce Barker, the New Zealand national and highly experienced archaeologist based at the University of Southern Queensland, was conducting fieldwork in the remote Southern Highlands province of PNG when they were taken hostage by the armed group.
PNG authorities confirmed the release of one hostage on Friday, and the final three hostages – the professor and two PNG women – were secured “through covert operations” without paying the $1.4 million ransom.
The vice-chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland expressed relief and thanked the PNG, Australian, and New Zealand governments. The governments and officials involved in the operation have also been thanked for their support.
»Australian-based archaeologist and 2 Papua New Guinea citizens released from captivity«
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