Australian professor and two other hostages freed in Papua New Guinea after a week
A group of archaeology researchers, including the Australian professor, were taken hostage in Papua New Guinea by a gang demanding cash ransom
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.An Australian professor who was held hostage by an armed gang demanding ransom in Papua New Guinea has been released, it was reported.
University of Southern Queensland vice-chancellor Geraldine Mackenzie has confirmed that Prof Bryce Barker was released in Paua New Guinea on Sunday.
His two other colleagues, who were also held hostage, have also been released.
A group of archaeology researchers — including Prof Barker, two Papua New Guinean university graduates and a programme coordinator —- were taken hostage last Sunday by men demanding a cash ransom.
Ms Mackenzie told Sydney Morning Herald: “We are relieved to confirm that our much-loved colleague from the University of Southern Queensland, Professor Bryce Barker, has been released today.”
She added: “Professor Barker and his research team were in Papua New Guinea undertaking archaeological research. Bryce is a highly regarded archaeologist and a valued colleague at the University of Southern Queensland and in the wider archaeological community. He has many years of experience in undertaking research in PNG.”
Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea prime minister James Marape said the trio were freed following a covert operation involving his nation’s defence and police forces. One person was released earlier in the week.
The leader also apologised to the “families of those taken as hostages for ransom”.
According to Reuters, the research group were on a trip to the remote village of Fogoma’iu in the Mount Bosavi region, near the boundary of Southern Highlands and Hela provinces when they were seized.
ABC News reported that their release came after days of negotiations and a security operation involving Papua New Guinea police and defence personnel, in consultation with the Australian and New Zealand governments. It also named the women who were held with Prof Barker as Jemina Haro, Teppsy Beni and Cathy Alex.
Prof Barker is an Australian resident and a New Zealand citizen.
“It took us a while but the last three has [sic] been successfully returned through covert operations, with no [ransom] paid,” Mr Marape said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments