In Papua New Guinea, shooters kidnapped local academics and an Australian professor.
According to media accounts, armed men kidnapped the group on a research trip in the highlands.
Officials claim they want a ransom.
James Marape, the prime minister of PNG, says that officials are talking to the kidnappers and expect to get the people back “alive and safe.”
Reports say several local guides were freed from a bigger group.
Australian media reported four or five detainees. Australian archaeologists and PNG professors and students are among them.
Mr. Marape told reporters PNG officials had heard from the Australian guy who confirmed the group was alive.
He added that officials and kidnappers had “running discussions,” and police and the military were ready to help.
“But first, we want those criminals to liberate those in custody,” he stated.
“Nowhere to flee or hide.”
Mr. Marape claimed the group was brought “under strict wraps because of the sensitivity” and did not disclose when.
“I’m confident, I’m optimistic, I’m praying that we get… them out,”
He told captive families.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is silent.
Separatists in Indonesia’s Papua area kidnapped a New Zealand pilot last month.
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