Megawati cancels visit to Maluku, Aceh (31/12/2003) #7310
The Jakarta Post, December 31, 2003
JAKARTA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri has canceled her official visits to
Maluku and Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam for security reasons, sources at the State
Palace said on Tuesday.
Police focus only on high-profile cases: NGO (31/12/2003) #7307
The Jakarta Post, December 31, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Despite the praise the police have earned
from the international community in solving several bombing cases, many low profile
cases are left unsolved as the year 2003 comes to a close.
Police warn of new terrorist attacks (31/12/2003) #7305
The Jakarta Post, 12/30/2003 12:35:38 PM
JAKARTA (DPA): Indonesian police warned on Tuesday of new bombing attacks in
the country during New Year celebrations that could be committed by terrorist
suspects still on the run.
U.S. Trains Indonesian Anti-Terror Squad (31/12/2003) #7300
Associated Press, Tuesday, December 30, 2003
By MICHAEL CASEY, Associated Press Writer. MEGA MENDUNG, Indonesia -
Gunfire crackles and smoke wafts across a valley as an elite police unit storms a
house filled with terrorists, rescuing the hostages and shooting dead the abductors.
Soeharto sidekick's wife seeks asylum (31/12/2003) #7299
The Sydney Morning Herald, December 27 2003
By Leonie Lamont. The wife of a former Soeharto government minister, the tycoon
Mohamad "Bob" Hasan, is seeking refugee status in Australia, claiming she fears
persecution as a former crony of the regime if she is forced to return to Indonesia.
Xmas different for bomb victim family (30/12/2003) #7298
The Jakarta Post, December 30, 2003
Theresia Sufa, The Jakarta Post, Bogor. Christmas last week should have been
celebrated joyously, but for the family of Johanes Boelan, a driver killed in the Aug. 5
Marriott hotel bombing in South Jakarta, it was not as cheerful as it used to be.
Contemplating the possibility of a military coup d'etat (30/12/2003) #7297
The Jakarta Post, December 30, 2003
Historian Andrew Janos wrote in 1964 that a military coup in the United States "would
be too fantastic to contemplate, not only because few would actually entertain the
idea, but also because the bulk of the people are strongly attached to the prevailing
(democratic) political system" (The Seizure of Power: A Study of Force and Popular
Consent, Research Monograph No. 16, Center for International Studies, Princeton
University, 1964, p. 39).
Indonesian journalist found dead in war-torn Aceh (30/12/2003) #7296
ABC AUSTRALIA, 30/12/2003 05:03:21
An Indonesian television journalist has been found dead in Aceh province, six months
after he was kidnapped by separatist rebels.
Asia's forgotten wars slog into new year (30/12/2003) #7294
Independent Online [South Africa], December 29 2003 at 06:51AM
It says 300 civilians have also been killed but blames the deaths on the Free Aceh
Movement, which has been fighting for independence since 1976. Elsewhere in
Indonesia, a total of 6 000 people have died since 1999 in Muslim-Christian battles in
two areas: the eastern Maluku islands and Poso in the South Sulawesi province.
Prosecutors demand life sentence for Bali bomb-maker (30/12/2003) #7288
ABC AUSTRALIA, 29/12/2003 18:43:11
Indonesian prosecutors have demanded life in prison for a man who helped assemble
the deadliest Bali bomb, saying he is guilty of an extraordinary crime against
humanity.
There goes the neighbourhood (29/12/2003) #7287
The Australian, December 27, 2003
By Greg Sheridan. In the southern Philippines, in territory controlled by the Muslim
separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front, there exists a freestanding training camp for
Jemaah Islamiah, the Indonesian-based terrorist group.
Jihad's real meaning to be explained (29/12/2003) #7286
Borneo Bulletin, Friday, December 26, 2003
By Rosli Abidin Yahya. The Council of Religious Ministers for Brunei Darussalam,
Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore (MABIMS) will publish a comprehensive working
paper for explaining Jihad (crusade or holy war) to their Ummah (followers of Islam) by
its target date next year.
Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 160 (29/12/2003) #7283
20 - 26 December 2003
ACEH * Various local press reported that 7 civilians and 20 GAM members were killed
in Aceh province during the week.
CENTRAL SULAWESI * On Tuesday (23 Dec.), Police Bomb Squad defused a low
explosive bomb in a field nearby the Lembomawo Village Head Office in Poso Kota
sub-district. The bomb was found on a public transportation and reported to the
nearby security officer. On Monday (22 Dec.), residents in Poso Kota also heard a
suspected bomb explosion, however Police has yet to found the area of explosion.
MALUKU * A local newspaper, Ambon Ekspres, quoted the Head of Police for Maluku
Province, Brig. Gen. Bambang Sutrisno, on Tuesday (24 Dec.), saying that there is a
possibility of a bomb threat, crime and traffic jam in several areas in Maluku during the
celebration of Christmas and New Year. He also expressed his wishes to the
community to assist the security apparatus to secure the Christmas and New Year
celebration.
NORTH MALUKU * Under its Community Rehabilitation Initiative (CRI) Programme,
CARDI conducted field monitoring to Gane Barat sub-district, as well as field
assessment and monitoring in 5 villages in Oba sub-district.
PAPUA * A local newspaper, Papua Post, quoted the Commander of Police Military
Center, Maj. Gen. TNI Sulaiman AB, on Tuesday (22 Dec.), saying that investigation
carried out by FBI failed to prooveany involvement of Indonesian military in August
2002 Timika ambush. This statement was also confirmed by Former Papua Police
chief Insp. Gen. Made Mangku Pastika.
2003: A year of living in fear of terror (26/12/2003) #7276
The Jakarta Post, December 26, 2003
Kanis Dursin, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Ever since his wife told him in early
November that she had to go home to Hong Kong to attend her younger sister's
wedding, James had been restless.
Poso blast breaks Indonesia's Christmas peace (26/12/2003) #7274
ABC AUSTRALIA, 26/12/2003 05:03:59
An explosion has rocked the troubled district of Poso in Indonesia's Central Sulawesi
province, but there was no immediate report of damage or casualties.
Sweden yet to decide on Aceh case (26/12/2003) #7273
ABC AUSTRALIA, 26/12/2003 07:14:47
Sweden has yet to decide whether to send a delegation of police and prosecutors to
interview Aceh rebels in Indonesia.
Indonesia fetes Christmas under tight security (26/12/2003) #7272
The Jakarta Post, 12/25/2003 3:47:04 PM
JAKARTA (AFP): Tight security was in place as Indonesian Christians flocked to
churches across the world's largest Muslim-populated state Thursday to solemnly
celebrate Christmas.
Indonesia fetes Christmas under tight security (26/12/2003) #7271
ABC AUSTRALIA, 25/12/2003 22:15:47
Tight security is in place in Indonesian as Christians flock to churches to celebrate
Christmas.
Former ETimor militia leader eyes Indonesia's Papua (25/12/2003) #7266
ABC AUSTRALIA, 24/12/2003 08:06:32
The former leader of the most notorious East Timor militia group, Eurico Guterres,
says he now heads an organisation with funds and 18-thousand members, to fight
separatists in Indonesia's Papua province.
Guterres says Papuan force ready to fight (25/12/2003) #7265
The Age [Australia], December 20, 2003
By Matthew Moore, Indonesia Correspondent, Jakarta. The former leader of the most
notorious of East Timor's militias, Eurico Guterres, claims he now heads an
organisation with 18,000 members and funds to fight separatists in Indonesia's Papua
province.
Bomb Blast in Poso (24/12/2003) #7264
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 24, 2003 02:06 AM
Laksamana.Net - Amid warnings of possible terror attacks on churches over the
Christmas and New Year period, a bomb exploded on Tuesday (23/12/03) in Poso,
Central Sulawesi province, but there were no fatalities.
Indo seeks Interpol help to track down convicted separatist (24/12/2003) #7262
ABC AUSTRALIA, 24/12/2003 18:34:50
Indonesia is seeking the help of the international police organisation Interpol to help
find and arrest a convicted separatist leader.
Thousands of police on alert for Christmas (24/12/2003) #7260
The Jakarta Post, 12/24/2003 7:27:06 PM
JAKARTA (AFP): Thousands of officers went on alert Wednesday as Christians
prepared to celebrate Christmas.
Thousand of police to guard 80 churches in Makassar (24/12/2003) #7259
The Jakarta Post, 12/24/2003 2:00:59 PM
MAKASSAR (Antara) : A total of 2,800 policemen will be deployed to safeguard 80
churches and public facilities in Makassar, South Sulawesi during the Christmas and
New Year holidays, MakassarPolice Chief Sen. Coms. Jose Rizal Effendi said.
Maluku separatists jailed for 16 months (24/12/2003) #7256
The Jakarta Post, December 24, 2003
M. Azis Tunny and Yuli Tri Suwarni, The Jakarta Post, Maluku/Bandung. The Maluku
District Court sentenced on Tuesday nine members of the separatist South Maluku
Republic (RMS) movement to 16 months in jail for rebellion against the government.
Poso blast mars Xmas cheer (24/12/2003) #7255
The Jakarta Post, December 24, 2003
The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. A low explosive bomb went off on Tuesday in the Central
Sulawesi town of Poso as the nation readied for Christmas.
NGOs urge Australian firm to stop mining in Halmahera (24/12/2003) #7254
The Jakarta Post, December 24, 2003
Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. The Coalition Against Forests for Mining and
representatives of about 5,000 Kao and Malifut tribespeople of Halmahera island in
North Maluku are demanding Australian company PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals
(NHM) to immediately stop its open-pit mining in the protected forest of Toguraci.
Bomb explodes in Poso (24/12/2003) #7250
The Jakarta Post, December 23, 2003
PALU (Antara) : A bomb blast damaged the Lembomawo village administrative office
in Poso Kota subdistrict, Poso regency, Central Sulawesi on Tuesday, but there were
no fatalities in the incident.
Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 159 (24/12/2003) #7249
13 - 19 December 2003
ACEH * Various local press reported that 14 civilians, 2 TNI soldiers and 27 GAM
members were killed during the week.
CENTRAL SULAWESI * From 16 to 18 December, CWS distributed 13,350 kg of red
beans, 6,675 kg of vegetable oil, and 66,750 kg of rice in 9 villages in Poso Pesisir
sub-district.
MALUKU * A local newspaper, Ambon Ekspress, reported on Monday (15 Dec.), that
an explosion in Air Salobar, Sirimau sub-district, Ambon Island, that occurred on
Saturday (13 Dec.) at 14.00 pm local time. No casualty or damage was reported.
Head of TNI for Ambon Island, Lt. Col. Yudi Zanibar, said the exploded device was a
local hand made bomb. Investigations into the incidence have been launched by
security officials.
NORTH MALUKU * A local newspaper, Malut Post, reported on Tuesday (16 Dec.),
that the Coordinating Minister of Social Welfare, Yusuf Kalla, visited two
IDPs/returnee camps (former Benteng Theatre and Bimoli warehouse) in Ternate on
Monday (15 Dec.). In former Benteng Theatre camp, Kalla met returnees who
protested the irregularities in the distribution of assistance by the provincial Social
Department.
PAPUA * A local newspaper, Cenderawasih Pos, reported from 15 to 17 December,
that the Regional People's Representative Council hosted a meeting from 15 to 16
December to seek solution to the central Government's controversial decision to split
Papua into three provinces. The meeting was resulted in to three recommendations.
First, to push the central government to issue the legal draft of Papuan Indigenous
Assembly (MRP). Secondly, to push the central government to be consistent in
implementing the Special Autonomy Law (No 21/2001) in Papua. Thirdly, to refuse
implementation of Law No 45/1999 and Presidential Decree No 1/2003 concerning the
establishment of new provinces in Papua.
Indonesian troops kill separatist rebels (24/12/2003) #7248
ABC AUSTRALIA, 23/12/2003 23:54:46
Indonesian troops have killed six separatist rebels and captured nine including three
young women in Aceh province
Reports of 13 men detained in Papua province (24/12/2003) #7247
ABC AUSTRALIA, 23/12/2003 18:40:02
Police have reportedly detained 13 men in the Wamena district of Papua province and
transported them to the provincial capital, Jayapura.
FBI clears Indonesian army of role in Papua murders: report (24/12/2003) #7246
ABC AUSTRALIA, 23/12/2003 18:40:03
A United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) probe has cleared the
Indonesian army of involvement in an ambush in Papua province in 2002, which killed
two Americans.
Maluku separatist sent to jail (23/12/2003) #7240
The Jakarta Post, December 23, 2003
AMBON, Maluku: Maluku Police arrested local separatist leader Samuel Waeleruny
on Monday and sent him to Jakarta to serve his three-year jail term.
Indon court imposes jail sentence on explosive supplier (23/12/2003) #7235
ABC AUSTRALIA, 22/12/2003 21:08:41
An Indonesian court has imposed an 18-year jail sentence on a man who supplied
Islamic militants with the explosives used in a McDonald's restaurant bombing.
Wahid Visits Israel, Slams Suicide Bombings (23/12/2003) #7233
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 22, 2003 09:05 AM
Laksamana.Net - Former president Abdurrahman 'Gus Dur' Wahid, attending an
interfaith peace conference in Jerusalem, has condemned Palestinian suicide
bombings.
Indonesia has progressed in religious freedom: U.S. (22/12/2003) #7230
The Jakarta Post, December 22, 2003
The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Indonesia made progress in promoting respect for religious
freedom, but in a number of cases the government failed to punish extremists
responsible for murder and other crimes. This was the view expressed in a yearend
report on Indonesia issued by the United States, part of the International Religious
Freedom Report 2003 released on Thursday. Covering the period of July 1 2002 to
June 30 this year, it was compiled by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and
Labor under the Department of State and is accessible on
http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2003.
Review - Regions: Aceh Election Delay Mooted (22/12/2003) #7229
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 22, 2003 12:14 AM
Laksamana.Net - Latest figures from the military suggest more than 2,000 suspected
rebels of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) have been arrested or have surrendered and
more than 1,100 others have been shot dead since the war to 'crush' them was
launched in May.
Review - Politics: President 'Ashamed' (22/12/2003) #7228
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 22, 2003 12:17 AM
Laksamana.Net - Speaking to the Indonesian community in Islamabad, President
Megawati Sukarnoputri said she felt 'ashamed' after Indonesia finished behind
Vietnam and Thailand in the medal count in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.
Convicted Papuans to be brought to Jakarta (22/12/2003) #7227
The Jakarta Post, December 22, 2003
Nethy Dharma Somba , The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua. Human rights lawyers in
Papua lodged a protest with the local office of the justice and human rights ministry
on Sunday for trying to "abduct" 13 people convicted of hoisting separatist flags in
Wamena in 2000, and transfer them without proper procedures.
Clash in Papua injures two (22/12/2003) #7226
ABC AUSTRALIA, 21/12/2003 10:08:55
Indonesian police have fired warning shots to stop a clash between supporters and
opponents of an elected official in the province of Papua.
THE SITUATION IN AMBON/MOLUCCAS – Report No. 405 (22/12/2003) #7225
Crisis Centre Diocese of Amboina, Ambon, December 21, 2003
15 YEARS IN JAIL DEMANDED FOR SEPARATISTS – On April 20, 2003, police
forces arrested Drs. Jhon Rea, "commander of the RMS Forces" in Ambon, together
with eight RMS members while they were having a secret meeting in Jhon Rea's
house in the neighbourhood of Batubulan/Batugajah, city of Ambon (see Report 363).
Separatists face up to 15 years in jail (22/12/2003) #7224
The Jakarta Post, December 20, 2003
The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Ambon. Prosecutors charged on Friday nine separatist in
Maluku province with treason for allegedly agitating and encouraging people to
establish a South Maluku emergency authority.
Terror Attacks Feared in Indonesia (22/12/2003) #7220
Associated Press, Sat Dec 20, 3:33 AM ET
By CHRIS BRUMMITT, Associated Press Writer. JAKARTA, Indonesia - Al-Qaida
linked militants are feared to be targeting churches this Christmas in Indonesia, the
world's most populous Muslim nation, but priests and preachers said they aren't
canceling yuletide services.
Islam's All-Enveloping Hijab Is Hip in Indonesia (22/12/2003) #7219
Reuters, Thu December 18, 2003 08:08 AM ET
By Tomi Soetjipto. JAKARTA (Reuters) - Forget the stereotype image of Muslim
women draped from head to toe in all-enveloping robes, or girls shrouded in modest
white veils.
International Religious Freedom Report 2003 (22/12/2003) #7217
U.S. Department of State, December 18, 2003
The Government made considerable progress in some areas, such as reducing
interreligious violence in the Maluku islands and Central Sulawesi, and arresting and
prosecuting terrorists and religious extremists for carrying out religiously motivated
attacks. However, in several cases the Government failed to hold religious extremists
responsible for murder and other crimes.
Indonesia Backgrounder: A Guide to the 2004 Elections (20/12/2003) #7215
The International Crisis Group (ICG), 18 December 2003
ICG Asia Report No: 71, 18 December 2003. Executive Summary: Indonesia faces
at least two and probably three national elections in 2004, including a presidential
vote, but they are unlikely to bring fundamental change. Citizens are increasingly
disillusioned with the half-decade of democracy and "money politics" they have
experienced since the collapse of Soeharto's authoritarian New Order.
Click here to view the full report as a PDF file in A4 format
Indonesia boosts security for Christmas period (20/12/2003) #7214
ABC AUSTRALIA, 20/12/2003 08:25:37
Indonesia is to deploy more than two-thirds of its quarter of a million-strong police
force over Christmas and New Year to prevent a repeat of the wave of Christmas Eve
bombings that killed 19 people three years ago.
Bashir to appeal against sentence to Supreme Court (20/12/2003) #7213
ABC AUSTRALIA, 19/12/2003 23:00:17
Militant Indonesian Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Bashir is to petition the Supreme Court
against an appeal court ruling that he must serve three years in jail.
Ba'asyir to file Supreme Court appeal against jail term (20/12/2003) #7212
The Jakarta Post, 12/19/2003 3:22:27 PM
JAKARTA (AFP): Militant Indonesian Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Ba'asyir will petition
the Supreme Court on Friday against an appeal court ruling that he must serve three
years in jail, his lawyer said.
Indonesia extends detention for terror-linked students (20/12/2003) #7210
ABC AUSTRALIA, 19/12/2003 20:03:50
Indonesia has extended the detention of four students deported from Pakistan
because they are suspected of links to an accused terror leader and several
bombings.
Head of Marriott suicide bomber interred (20/12/2003) #7209
The Jakarta Post, 12/19/2003 3:44:39 PM
JAKARTA (Antara): The head of Asmar Latin Sani, the suspected suicide bomber in
the Aug. 5 attack on the JW Marriott Hotel, South Jakarta, was buried on Friday in a
cemetery in Kandang village.
Officials Slam HRW Report on Aceh (20/12/2003) #7208
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 19, 2003 11:58 PM
Laksamana.Net - Senior government and military officials have strongly denied a
report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) alleging abuses by troops fighting separatist
rebels in Aceh province.
Indonesians bend laws to hook up (20/12/2003) #7207
CNN, Thursday, December 18, 2003 Posted: 0609 GMT ( 2:09 PM HKT)
JAKARTA, Indonesia (CNN) -- In Indonesia it is illegal for couples to say "I do" to
someone from another faith.
Four students named terror suspects (19/12/2003) #7206
The Jakarta Post, December 19, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Four of the six students recently deported
from Pakistan have been declared suspects for their roles in a series of terrorist
attacks here in the past several years.
Indonesian police question four student suspects (19/12/2003) #7205
ABC AUSTRALIA, 19/12/2003 07:41:39
Indonesian police are continuing to question four people deported from Pakistan on
suspicion of having links with the al-Qaeda terror network.
Court again delays trial on JI member (19/12/2003) #7204
The Jakarta Post, December 19, 2003
PALU, Central Sulawesi: The Palu District Court again delayed the trial on Thursday
of Fauzan, a suspected member of Jamaah Islamiyah (JI), after key witness Mustafa
failed to appear there for health reasons.
U.S. agents leave Papua (19/12/2003) #7203
The Jakarta Post, December 19, 2003
JAKARTA: A team of United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents has
left Papua after questioning a number of witnesses in connection with the ambush in
which three teachers, including two Americans, were killed in August 2002.
Four Detained Students Linked to Terrorism (19/12/2003) #7198
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 18, 2003 11:58 PM
Laksamana.Net - Four Indonesian Islamic students, including the younger brother of
alleged terrorist mastermind Hambali, will be charged with facilitating terrorism, police
said Thursday (18/12/03).
Detained Indonesian students 'linked to al-Qaeda' (19/12/2003) #7197
ABC AUSTRALIA, 18/12/2003 22:51:01
Indonesian police have revealed more information about a group of six Indonesian
students deported by Pakistan on suspicion of terror links.
Papuans demand cancellation of disputed law (19/12/2003) #7196
The Jakarta Post, December 18, 2003
Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua. Papuan people concluded
a two-day meeting here on Tuesday, recommending that the central government
speed up the establishment of the Papuan People's Assembly (MRP) as mandated
by the special autonomy law, and revoke controversial Law No. 45/1999 on the
partition of the territory into three smaller provinces.
Megawati accused of giving excessive power to spy agency (19/12/2003) #7195
ABC AUSTRALIA, 18/12/2003 22:51:05
An Indonesian human rights group, Imparsial, has accused the president, Megawati
Sukarnoputri, of giving the country's national intelligence agency too much power.
Indon military again accused of killing campaign in Aceh (18/12/2003) #7194
ABC AUSTRALIA, 18/12/2003 08:28:40
The Indonesian military has again been accused of a campaign of killings,
kidnappings and beatings of civilians in Aceh.
THE SITUATION IN AMBON/MOLUCCAS – Report No. 404 (18/12/2003) #7193
Crisis Centre Diocese of Amboina, Ambon, December 17, 2003
THE MANUPUTTY CASE – FKM Judicial leader Semmy Waeleruny declared to
Jakarta based KOMPAS newspaper that FKM leader Alex Manuputty's departure for
the USA was definitely not a flight (as we mentioned in Report 402), but was
sanctioned by the Indonesian Government. However – according to REPUBLIKA
newspaper – Waeleruny refused to tell which immigration office had issued the
passport. He said Alex Manuputty left for America on November 19, 2003, on the
invitation of a number of Human Rights Organizations in the USA.
Australia issues general travel warning (18/12/2003) #7182
ABC AUSTRALIA, 17/12/2003 18:46:54
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs has issued a general warning for travel
overseas.
Indonesian scholars forbid random terror attacks (18/12/2003) #7181
ABC AUSTRALIA, 17/12/2003 12:37:23
Indonesia's leading Islamic authority has passed a religious decree against suicide
bombing and has also made a series of distinctions excluding acts of terror from any
definition of jihad.
Indonesian authorities checking (18/12/2003) #7180
if arrested man is Aceh rebel leader
ABC AUSTRALIA, 17/12/2003 18:46:57
Indonesian troops and police are checking whether a man arrested at the weekend is
a top separatist rebel commander in Aceh province.
MUI commission bans bank interest (18/12/2003) #7179
The Jakarta Post, December 17, 2003
Dadan Wijaksana and A. Junaidi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. The Indonesian Ulemas
Council (MUI) Edict Commission said on Tuesday that it had agreed to declare
interest on money as riba, which is forbidden under Islamic law, but MUI deputy
chairman Din Syamsuddin said that the edict was not final.
Bank Interest Fatwa Gets Cool Response (18/12/2003) #7178
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 17, 2003 09:39 AM
Laksamana.Net - Indonesia's central bank has responded cautiously to a plan by the
nation's top Islamic authority to issue a fatwa (religious edict) banning Muslims from
putting their money in banks and other financial institutions that charge interest.
Jemaah Islamiyah Official Implicates Baasyir (17/12/2003) #7172
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 16, 2003 08:30 AM
Laksamana.Net - A sub-regional commander of Southeast Asian terrorism network
Jemaah Islamiyah has testified that he was appointed to the position by radical
Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Baasyir.
US agents can question troops over Papua killings (17/12/2003) #7171
ABC AUSTRALIA, 16/12/2003 12:00:54
America's Federal Bureau of Investigation will be allowed to question 15 Indonesian
soldiers over the killing last year of two Americans in Papua province.
Indonesia seeks US cooperation in student probe (17/12/2003) #7170
ABC AUSTRALIA, 16/12/2003 12:01:00
Indonesian police have asked the United States for access to captured Muslim
militant, Hambali, saying questioning him is crucial for investigating other suspects,
including his brother.
Two Terror-Linked Students to be Released (17/12/2003) #7169
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 16, 2003 06:44 PM
Laksamana.Net - Police say they will release two of six students recently deported
from Pakistan on suspicion of alleged terrorism links, while the four others are likely
to be declared suspects.
Muslims Kill Christians At Prayer: Indonesia (17/12/2003) #7168
American Daily, 12/15/03
By Grant Swank. The Koran demands that non-Muslims either be slaves to Muslims
or killed outright. There are those Muslims who don't know their Koran; therefore, they
vehemently deny this Islamic teaching. Nevertheless, those who read the Koran from
cover to cover know that the murder doctrine is very much in the record. It is a sure
thing that Islamic murderers know that that is the dictate; so they carry it out every
day.
1,000 Papuans convene to discuss partition policy (16/12/2003) #7164
The Jakarta Post, December 16, 2003
Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua. Nearly 1,000 Papuans
from all walks of life began a two-day meeting sponsored by the local legislative
council on Monday to seek a solution to the central government's controversial
decision to split Papua into three provinces.
Police close to naming four deportees terror suspects (16/12/2003) #7163
The Jakarta Post, December 16, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. The police claim to have enough evidence to
charge four of the six students repatriated from Pakistan with their involvement in a
series of terror attacks that rocked Indonesia over the last two years.
Hand tractors for Poso farmers (16/12/2003) #7162
The Jakarta Post, December 16, 2003
PALU, Central Sulawesi: Coordinating Minister for People's Welfare Jusuf Kalla gave
on Monday 100 hand tractors worth Rp 1.5 billion (US$176,470) in assistance for
young farmers in the conflict-ridden regency of Poso, Central Sulawesi.
JI commander says he was appointed by Bashir (16/12/2003) #7161
ABC AUSTRALIA, 15/12/2003 23:01:47
A regional commander of the South East Asian terrorist network, Jemaah Islamiah,
has told a court in Indonesia that jailed Muslim cleric, Abu Bakar Bashir, appointed
him to his post.
Regional JI commander tells court he was appointed by (16/12/2003) #7160
Ba'asyir
The Jakarta Post, 12/15/2003 5:23:50 PM
JAKARTA (AFP): A regional commander of the Jamaah Islamiyah (JI) terror network
told a court on Monday that Indonesian Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Ba'asyir had
appointed him to the post.
FBI may probe Indonesia troops over Papua killings (16/12/2003) #7159
The Jakarta Post, 12/15/2003 7:25:40 PM
JAKARTA (Reuters): The FBI will be allowed to question 15 Indonesian soldiers over
the killing last year of two Americans in the remote province of Papua that strained
ties between Washington and Jakarta, the army said on Monday.
Indonesia seeks U.S. cooperation in student probe (16/12/2003) #7158
The Jakarta Post, 12/15/2003 7:29:41 PM
JAKARTA (Reuters): Indonesian police asked the United States on Monday for
access to top captured Muslim militant Hambali, saying questioning him was crucial
for investigating other suspects, including his brother.
Bali suspect says he was first tricked into (16/12/2003) #7157
preparing explosives
The Jakarta Post, 12/15/2003 3:30:59 PM
DENPASAR, Bali (AFP): A man accused of involvement in last year's Bali bombing
admitted Monday he helped prepare ingredients for a deadly bomb but said he was
initially told the chemicals were to make fertiliser.
Review - Regions: Back in the War Zone (16/12/2003) #7156
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 15, 2003 07:56 AM
Laksamana.Net - The death toll in Aceh since President Megawati Sukarnoputri
declared martial law in May is officially put at about 1,600 but is impossible to assess
exact numbers because of the de facto ban on foreign media, while local journalists
are strongly intimidated into what the military describes as "patriotic" reporting.
Latest news from Rev. Damanik (16/12/2003) #7155
Thank you very much for everything you have done for us here, esp for Rev.
Damanik/RD's case. After I had a long discussion with RD's family (his father ans
sisters in North Sumatera through telp conversation) and with RD alone face to face
during my visit in Central Sulawesi last Dec 9-12, finally RD decides to proceed with
the PK. He will renew the personnels of his Defense Team/DT, since view of them are
very preoccupied with other cases which are also very improtant. This is what Rev. D
asked me to inform you all (sorry, just literary translaltion):
Poso troops and police to start raids on weapon (15/12/2003) #7153
The Jakarta Post, December 15, 2003
The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. A joint police and military force in Central Sulawesi will
soon launch a search-and-seizure raid for sharp weapons in the violence-torn
regencies of Poso and neighboring Morowali to prevent retaliatory attacks against a
well-armed hit-and-run gang that has been terrorizing Christian villages of late,
according to authorities on Saturday.
THE SITUATION IN AMBON/MOLUCCAS – Report No. 403 (15/12/2003) #7152
Crisis Centre Diocese of Amboina, Ambon, December 14, 2003
BOMB EXPLOSION – In the evening of Saturday, December 13, a home-made bomb
exploded in the Pohon Mangga area, Air Salobar, west end of Ambon city. The bomb,
which was hidden in a flashlight, caused no casualties neither evoked any subsequent
unrest. In its commentary, SCTV commercial TV supposed a link with the upcoming
visit to Ambon by Vice President Hamzah Haz next December 17.
Saddam captured in hometown (15/12/2003) #7148
The Age [Australia], 14, 2003 - 11:27PM
Baghdad, December 14, 2003 - 11:27PM. Saddam Hussein, wearing a fake beard and
burying himself in a cellar floor in an attempt to hide from US troops, was captured
alive today in his hometown of Tikrit, the Iraqi Governing Council said.
An Indonesian Voice in the Antiterror Wilderness (15/12/2003) #7147
The New York Times, Saturday, December 13, 2003
By JANE PERLEZ. JAKARTA, Indonesia - IN the year before terrorists killed more
than 200 people in a Bali nightclub, the head of Indonesia's intelligence agency, Gen.
A. M. Hendropriyono, says he was a lonely man.
Convicted Christian militant leader flees Indonesia for U.S. (15/12/2003) #7146
japan today, Saturday, December 13, 2003 at 04:50 JST
JAKARTA - A Christian militant leader sentenced to jail for separatist activities in
Indonesia's riot-torn eastern islands of Maluku has fled to the United States, one of
his colleagues said Friday.
Convicted Christian militant leader flees Indonesia for U.S. (15/12/2003) #7145
Kyodo News [Japan], Friday December 12, 2003 6:32 PM
A Christian militant leader sentenced to jail for separatist activities in Indonesia's
riot-torn eastern islands of Maluku has fled to the United States, one of his colleagues
said Friday.
Christian Separatist Leader Manuputty Flies to US (15/12/2003) #7144
MISNA - Missionary Service News Agency, 12/12/2003 15:53
Church/Religious Affairs, Brief. The Christian separatist leader Alex Manuputty, active
in the Moluccas archipelago, managed to leave Indonesia during the first week of
December for the United States (US), the Fathers at the Crisis Centre of the Catholic
diocese of Ambon, chief town of the Moluccas, told MISNA today.
Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 158 (15/12/2003) #7143
6 - 12 December 2003
ACEH * Various local press reported that 2 civilians and 29 GAM members were killed
in Aceh province during the week.
CENTRAL SULAWESI * A local newspaper, Radar Sulteng, reported on Wednesday
(10 Dec.), that 4 government cars were burned by a mob on Monday (8 Dec.) in
Bungku Tengah sub-district of Morowali district. No casualties from the incident.
MALUKU * A team of community rehabilitation programme supported by CARDI,
started a field trip for technical and participatory assessment to seven pre-selected
community school rehabilitation sites throughout West Seram sub-district of Seram
island. The team is also conducting final evaluation on 22 selected sites (including
primary schools) in villages where CARDI implemented MCK support programme.
NORTH MALUKU * A local newspaper, Malut Post, reported on Saturday (6 Dec.),
that returnees in Ngajam and Ngalao villages of North Loloda sub-district were
questioning the remaining assistance packages that have not been received yet. The
returnees have received only half of the life security assistance when they returned in
March 2003.
PAPUA * A local newspaper, Cenderawasih Pos, reported on Monday (8 Dec.), that
the Governor of Papua and the local authorities objected an effort made by Eurico
Guterres for setting up a nationalist youth group, Red-and-White Defenders Front, in
the Timika of Papua province. This statement was made by the Papua Police Chief,
Maj. Gen. Budi Utomo during his visit in Timika. Guterres is a notorious militia leader
found guilty in the 1999 East Timor violence.
Woman awarded for terrorism studies (15/12/2003) #7142
ABC AUSTRALIA, Friday, December 12, 2003. 4:48pm (AEDT)
"I'd actually done a thesis on a very a militant Islamic terrorist group who waged a
Jihad in Ambon, which I'm sure many people in Darwin may know about, and I
became interested in Islam through that," she said.
UN finds 3,000 children in Indonesian adult jails (15/12/2003) #7141
The Guardian, Friday December 12, 2003
John Aglionby in Jakarta. Three thousand Indonesian children are suffering in "horrific"
conditions in adult jails, a United Nations study revealed yesterday.
Police question students over terrorism connection (13/12/2003) #7140
The Jakarta Post, December 13, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Police began on Friday the questioning of
the brother of top terrorist suspect Hambali and his five fellow students over their
alleged involvement in several terror attacks in Indonesia, just after their arrival from
Pakistan overnight.
Indonesia Faces "the Trigger of Revolution" (13/12/2003) #7139
BusinessWeek Magazine, December 15, 2003
In an already troubled, divided country, the potential loss of 1 million garment jobs
could easily send it over the edge. As darkness and dust settle over the factory town
of Bandung in the chilly hills of West Java, the heart of Indonesia's garment and textile
industry, 20-year-old Neng Kartini strolls nonchalantly out of the Metro Garmin factory
gates in her tight jeans and T-shirt.
THE SITUATION IN AMBON/MOLUCCAS – Report No. 402 (13/12/2003) #7138
Crisis Centre Diocese of Amboina, Ambon, December 12, 2003
ALEX MANUPUTTY FLEES TO THE USA – Separatist FKM leader Dr. Alex
Manuputty (55), who was arrested in Ambon on April 17, 2002, and consequently
sentenced to three years in prison, managed to leave for the USA during the first
week of December 2003, allegedly to find support for his FKM movement, which –
according to him – fights for the legal right to establish the independent nation of the
RMS (Republic of the South Moluccas).
Convicted Indonesian separatist leader leaves for US (13/12/2003) #7137
ABC AUSTRALIA, 12/12/2003 19:13:40
An Indonesian separatist leader who was released pending an appeal against a prison
sentence has reportedly moved to the United States to campaign for independence for
the Maluku islands.
Terror-linked students return to Indonesia (13/12/2003) #7133
ABC AUSTRALIA, 12/12/2003 19:13:42
Six Indonesian students arrested in Pakistan on suspicion of terrorist links have
arrived back in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta.
Five rebels killed in Aceh (13/12/2003) #7132
ABC AUSTRALIA, 12/12/2003 23:01:44
Indonesian troops have reportedly killed five more separatist rebels and seized
weapons in the latest clashes in Aceh province.
Jakarta accused over Papua (13/12/2003) #7131
BBC World News, Thursday, 11 December, 2003, 08:53 GMT
Tim Johnston, BBC, Jakarta. A report from an American university has accused
Indonesia of crimes against humanity for its actions in the troubled eastern province of
Papua, and has suggested that Jakarta may also be guilty of genocide.
FBI in Indonesia's Papua to probe American deaths (13/12/2003) #7130
Reuters, 11 Dec 2003 09:10:19 GMT
JAKARTA, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Four FBI agents have been in Indonesia's Papua since
early this week to probe the killing of two Americans in the remote province last year
that strained ties between Washington and Jakarta, police said on Thursday.
Indonesian Christians Once Again Living in Fear (12/12/2003) #7129
CNS News, December 11, 2003
By Patrick Goodenough, CNSNews.com Pacific Rim Bureau Chief. Pacific Rim
Bureau (CNSNews.com) - As Christmas approaches, Christians in Indonesia's
Sulawesi province are worried that despite an influx of troops and police, the
deteriorating security situation of the last two months may worsen.
Convicted separatist flees to U.S. (12/12/2003) #7127
The Jakarta Post, December 12, 2003
Oktovianus Pinontoan, The Jakarta Post, Ambon, Maluku. Maluku separatist leader
Alex Manuputty, who was sentenced to three years in prison for plotting rebellion, has
left the province for the United States, according to the provincial governor.
Legislation blamed for frequent TNI-police clashes (12/12/2003) #7124
The Jakarta Post, December 12, 2003
Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. The frequent clashes between
members of the Indonesian Military (TNI) and the National Police across the country
are the result of the separation of the two institutions, military officers and an observer
say.
FBI questions witnesses in Timika slayings (12/12/2003) #7123
The Jakarta Post, December 12, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. A team of United States Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI) agents have arrived in the Papuan town of Timika and questioned a
number of witnesses in connection with an ambush in which three employees of an
American company were killed in August 2001.
FBI in Papua province to investigate American deaths (12/12/2003) #7122
ABC AUSTRALIA, 11/12/2003 22:37:18
Indonesian police say four American federal agents have been in Papua province
since early this week.
INFID's Short News Overview No. 158 (12/12/2003) #7121
INFID, 11 December 2003
Papua: Indonesian rights groups criticized the appointment of a police officer
accused in the 1999 East Timor violence as the new chief in restive Papua province,
saying it showed that security forces cared little about human rights or justice. Brig.
Gen. Timbul Silaen was named on Dec. 1 as the new head of police in Papua, where
a small band of separatist guerrillas is battling Jakarta rule.
Indonesian investigators fly home with terror suspects (12/12/2003) #7120
ABC AUSTRALIA, 11/12/2003 22:37:18
Six Indonesian students detained in Pakistan on suspicion of terrorist links have been
deported.
Indonesian investigators fly home with terror suspects (11/12/2003) #7117
arrested by Pakistan
The Jakarta Post, 12/11/2003 2:33:06 PM
KARACHI, Pakistan (AFP): Six Indonesian students detained in Pakistan on
suspicion of terrorist links have been deported back to Jakarta, an official said
Thursday.
Youths Shot while singing Christmas Carols (11/12/2003) #7111
Masariku Network, 11 December 2003
Poso, Joko Harmono, Dec 6, 2003. After weeks of increasing violence and multiple
threats and pamphlets calling for the extermination of the Christian community, and
the killing of Christians "whenever and where ever you find them", some sanity
seemed to be returning to Poso City.
Pakistan hands over six Indonesian terror suspects (11/12/2003) #7110
The Jakarta Post, December 11, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. National Police are to question six
Indonesian students over their alleged involvement in terrorism activities, after they
were deported by Pakistani authorities on Wednesday.
Pakistan Hands Over Terror Suspects (11/12/2003) #7109
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 10, 2003 09:41 PM
Laksamana.Net - Pakistan has handed over six suspected Indonesian Islamic
militants, including the brother of alleged terrorist mastermind Hambali, to a
delegation of visiting Indonesian security officials, reports said Wednesday (10/12/03).
NGO letter to Powell re. Group on Indonesia (11/12/2003) #7108
Scoop News [New Zealand], Wednesday, 10 December 2003, 2:30 pm
Dear Secretary Powell: We are writing with reference to the Consultative Group on
Indonesia (CGI) meeting to be held in Jakarta on December 10th and 11th. We
consider this meeting to be an important opportunity for the Administration to raise
concerns about human rights with the Indonesian authorities.
One dies in West Kalimantan clash between (11/12/2003) #7107
TNI soldiers and police
The Jakarta Post, December 11, 2003
Bambang Bider and Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Pontianak/Jakarta. Indonesia
Military (TNI) personnel and police officers clashed on Tuesday in Wanawa, West
Kalimantan, leaving one TNI soldier dead, one badly hurt and two police officers
severely wounded, just a week after a similar incident in Palopo, South Sulawesi.
Soldiers attack police station in Indonesia, one killed (11/12/2003) #7105
San Fransisco Chronicle, Tuesday, December 9, 2003 20:17 PST
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) -- Indonesian troops and police fired automatic weapons at
each other in a dispute over a traffic accident, and one soldier waas killed, officers
said Wednesday.
FO faces court over arms to Indonesia (11/12/2003) #7104
The Guardian, Wednesday December 10, 2003
Richard Norton-Taylor and John Aglionby in Singapore. The legality of Britain's arms
sales to Israel and Indonesia is to be challenged in the courts on the grounds that
they breach stated government policy, the Guardian has learned.
Soldiers Attack Police, One Killed (10/12/2003) #7101
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 10, 2003 03:42 PM
Laksamana.Net - Indonesia's notoriously undisciplined and violent security forces
have been at it again, this time with soldiers and police shooting each other in West
Kalimantan province during a dispute over a traffic accident.
1 dead in clash between police and soldiers in Mempawah (10/12/2003) #7100
The Jakarta Post, 12/10/2003 3:42:25 PM
JAKARTA (Antara): A clash between Indonesia's military and police in the town of
Mempawah in West Kalimantan province on Tuesday was sparked by a traffic
accident, local military spokesman Col. Marciano Norman has said.
Pakistan hands over 6 Indonesian terror suspects to Jakarta (10/12/2003) #7099
The Jakarta Post, 12/10/2003 3:02:03 PM
ISLAMABAD (AFP): Pakistan Wednesday handed over six Indonesian Islamic
students held here on suspicion of terror links to a delegation from Jakarta for
repatriation to their homeland, officials said.
Soldier and policeman injured during fighting in Indonesia (10/12/2003) #7098
ABC AUSTRALIA, 10/12/2003 16:02:55
An Indonesian soldier and a policeman have been wounded in the latest gunbattle
between Indonesian troops and police.
Ex-militiamman defers papua plan for nationalist group (10/12/2003) #7096
The Jakarta Post, December 10, 2003
Nethy Darma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Timika, Papua. A group of former East
Timorese militiamen postponed a plan on Tuesday to open a branch office of their
pro-integration Red-and-White Defenders Front (FPMP) in Papua province, following
strong objections from the local people.
RI students in Pakistan grilled (10/12/2003) #7095
The Jakarta Post, December 10, 2003
Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. A joint team from the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs, the National Police and the National Intelligence Agency (BIN) are
conducting a preliminary interrogation of six Indonesian students detained in Pakistan
for alleged terrorist activities, a minister said.
Cleric undeterred by prison (09/12/2003) #7090
The Star [Malaysia], Tuesday, December 9, 2003
BY AMY CHEW. JAKARTA: Inside a jail here, hundreds of people dressed in Muslim
garb gathered round a mosque and listened intently to the words of a bespectacled,
elderly man.
Indonesian team grills terror-linked students in Pakistan (09/12/2003) #7089
ABC AUSTRALIA, 09/12/2003 20:17:23
Indonesian authorities are questioning a team of six Indonesian students, who have
been detained in Pakistan on suspicion of terrorist links.
Indonesian MPs seek corruption investigation into Suharto (09/12/2003) #7088
ABC AUSTRALIA, 09/12/2003 15:00:40
Several Indonesian legislators have urged the attorney general to resume a corruption
investigation into former president Suharto. J.E. Sahetapy says he and at least three
other legislators made the demand on Monday when attorney general M.A. Rachman
appeared before a parliamentary commission.
Police detain two of four suspects over cleric's slaying (09/12/2003) #7087
The Jakarta Post, December 09, 2003
ID Nugroho, The Jakarta Post , Surabaya. Police here said on Monday they had
detained two people and were hunting two others suspected of slaying a Muslim cleric
from the National Awakening Party (PKB), following increasing pressure to bring the
alleged killers to justice.
Two More Sentenced Over McDonald's Bombing (09/12/2003) #7084
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 8, 2003 11:52 PM
Laksamana.Net - Two men have been sentenced to three and a half years in jail for
hiding one of the main culprits in last year's deadly bombing of a McDonald's
restaurant and car showroom in Makassar, South Sulawesi province.
Two more Makassar bombers jailed (09/12/2003) #7083
The Jakarta Post, December 09, 2003
Andi Hajramurni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar, South Sulawesi
The Makassar District Court in South Sulawesi sentenced on Monday two
accomplices of last year's bombing in the city, that killed three people, to
three-and-half-years in prison.
Bali bomb suspect says wanted men are still on the run (09/12/2003) #7082
ABC AUSTRALIA, 08/12/2003 23:05:51
A suspect in the Bali bombings has testified that the bigger of the two bombs was
assembled by two men - a Malaysian and an Indonesian - who are still on the run.
Indon police officer says (09/12/2003) #7081
execution of Bali bombers won't deter others
ABC AUSTRALIA, 09/12/2003 00:49:03
The Indonesian police officer who led the hunt for the Bali bombers says executing
three of the ringleaders will not deter future terrorists.
Sulawesi governors ink road map (08/12/2003) #7078
The Jakarta Post, December 08, 2003
The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Four governors in Sulawesi island has concluded a
meeting in the North Sulawesi capital of Manado, declaring that they would focus on
restoring security in the riot-torn city of Poso to pave the way for development both
there and across the island.
Bridging Islam, the West vital in fighting terrorism (08/12/2003) #7077
The Jakarta Post, December 08, 2003
Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Efforts to bridge the gap between
the Islamic world and the West are needed to ease the anxiety within the Muslim
community following the global war on terrorism, a minister said.
Separatist movements are main threat to RI, not terrorism (08/12/2003) #7076
The Jakarta Post, December 08, 2003
Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. Indonesia's defense white paper puts
terrorism behind separatism as the main security threat to the country, a policy that
prompts the need of maintaining the military's territorial function, an official said.
Review - Regions: Saracens, Scorpions & Hawks (08/12/2003) #7075
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 8, 2003 12:05 AM
Laksamana.Net - More than 1,100 Free Aceh Movement (GAM) guerrillas have been
killed since Jakarta declared martial law in the province on May 19 and launched an
offensive involving 40,000 troops and police to 'crush' the rebels.
Review - Politics: Courage & Leadership (08/12/2003) #7074
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 8, 2003 12:13 AM
Laksamana.Net - Political activity and news side-lined matters of the economy or
business last week as Indonesians realized that only four months separates them
from Indonesia's eighth general election since independence.
Indonesia braces for more terror threats (08/12/2003) #7070
ABC AUSTRALIA, 07/12/2003 21:54:37
A senior Indonesian government minister says there are reports militant cells are
preparing fresh attacks and Indonesian security forces are preparing "for the worst" as
the New Year approaches.
Terrorists regrouping in Indonesia, security minister warns (08/12/2003) #7069
The Jakarta Post, 12/7/2003 3:05:53 PM
NUSA DUA, Bali (AP): Terrorist cells in Indonesia are probably "regrouping, retraining
and recruiting," and could be planning more deadly bombings here, the country's top
security minister warned on Sunday.
Militant Islam: A fumbling attempt to explain its presence (08/12/2003) #7068
The Jakarta Post, December 07, 2003
Solahudin, Contributor, Jakarta. Tracing militant Islamic groups is comparable to
searching for ants on black stones in the dark; it's a tough task, as the groups are
careful, stay underground and keep their activities clandestine.
Police interrogate people suspected of flag raising (07/12/2003) #7067
The Jakarta Post, 12/6/2003 2:53:11 PM
AMBON, Maluku (Antara): Police are interrogating three people suspected of flying
the separatist flag of the Republic of South Maluku (RMS) in Batugantung.
Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 157 (07/12/2003) #7066
29 November - 5 December 2003
ACEH * During the week, various local press reported that 3 civilians and 30 GAM
members were killed.
CENTRAL SULAWESI * A local newspaper, Radar Sulteng, reported on Monday (1
Dec.), that 4 people were shot dead and five injured by gunfire on 29 and 30
December in Kilo village of Poso Pesisir sub-district, Rompi village of Ulubongka
sub-district, and Soe near Tentena. An explosion also occurred outside the central
market in Poso on 28 November. No civilian casualty was reported. On Wednesday (3
Dec.), it was also reported that Brimob reinforcements have arrived from Makassar
and Surabaya. The total number of security personnel in Poso and Morowali now is
3,400.
MALUKU * A local newspaper, Ambon Ekspress, reported on Saturday (29 Nov.), that
the Central Maluku Police confirmed an inter communal fight between the supporter
and opponent of a newly elected community leader in Laimu village of Central Maluku
district occurred on 26 November. The situation is now under control by the Police
Mobile Brigade (Brimob). No casualty was reported, but houses were burnt and
damaged houses.
NORTH MALUKU * North Maluku Provincial Social Department reported that 2,095
IDPs (327 families) from Ternate, Jailolo, Ibu, Obi, Weda, and Tidore of North Maluku
have arrived in Ternate on Sunday (30 Nov.) from Ambon. They are now staying in two
camps in Ternate city until they receive assistance package from the government.
PAPUA * Various local media reported that Papuan morning star flags were raised in
Jayapura, Manokwari and Serui to celebrate the independence of Papua on 1
December. Provincial government, the police and military have warned the community
not to get involved in any separatist movement. The police lowered down the flags
without objection from the community. The local government will take legal action
against those involved in the raising of the flag.
Ritual strengthens Muslim-Christian ties (06/12/2003) #7062
The Jakarta Post, December 06, 2003
M. Azis Tunny, The Jakarta Post, Mamala, Central Maluku. Thousands of residents
from every corner of Ambon municipality and its vicinity gathered on Tuesday in
Mamala and Morela subdistricts here.
US Warns of Possible Terror Attacks (06/12/2003) #7061
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 6, 2003 12:48 AM
Laksamana.Net - The US Embassy has issued a press release warning of a
"particularly high" risk of terror attacks in Indonesia over the Christmas and New Year
period.
Military hits rebel base with rockets (06/12/2003) #7060
The Jakarta Post, December 06, 2003
Nani Farida and Tengku Agam Muzakkir, The Jakarta Post, Banda
Aceh/Lhokseumawe. After a six-month lapse, Air Force bombers led a major offensive
against Free Aceh Movement (GAM) bases in Aceh Besar regency on Friday.
FBI to investigate deaths in Papua (05/12/2003) #7056
ABC AUSTRALIA, 05/12/2003 15:51:58
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents will return to Indonesia this week to
investigate the killing of two Americans in Papua province last year, which has
strained ties between Washington and Jakarta.
US issues Christmas travel warning for Indonesia (05/12/2003) #7055
ABC AUSTRALIA, 05/12/2003 19:44:46
The United States' embassy in Indonesia has issued a security warning to
Americans, saying they could be targeted in a Christmas holiday bombing campaign.
U.S. issues holiday terror warning in Indonesia (05/12/2003) #7054
The Jakarta Post, 12/5/2003 1:29:17 PM
JAKARTA (AP) : The U.S. Embassy issued a fresh warning to American citizens in
Indonesia on Friday, saying the risk of terror attacks over Christmas and New Year
was "particularlyhigh."
Indonesian military claims 12 rebels killed in Aceh (05/12/2003) #7053
ABC AUSTRALIA, 05/12/2003 22:04:51
The Indonesian military says its troops in Aceh province have killed 12 rebels and
arrested 12 others during Thursday's anniversary of the separatist Free Aceh
Movement (GAM).
Soldiers, police clash in South Sulawesi (05/12/2003) #7051
The Jakarta Post, December 05, 2003
Andi Hajramurni and Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Makassar/Jakarta. A
soldier and a policeman were wounded on Thursday in shoot-outs between troops and
police in the town of Palopo, Luwu regency, South Sulawesi, officials and residents
said.
TAPOL Warning on Papua (05/12/2003) #7050
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 5, 2003 12:01 AM
Laksamana.Net - TAPOL said the appointment of former East Timor police chief
Timbul Silaen as the new police chief of West Papua was "a triumph for impunity over
justice".
FBI team arrives to investigate bloody Timika ambush (05/12/2003) #7049
The Jakarta Post, December 05, 2003
Fabiola Desy Unidjaja, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. A team of the United States's
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is expected to arrive here in the next two days to
continue the probe into the Timika ambush that killed two Americans in August 2002.
Bali bombers file appeals with SC (05/12/2003) #7048
The Jakarta Post, December 05, 2003
Wahyoe Boediwardhana, The Jakarta Post, Denpasar, Bali. Six convicted Bali
bombers, including the mastermind of the bombings Abdul Aziz alias Imam Samudra,
have appealed to the Supreme Court, their lawyer said on Thursday.
Police say four Papuan students arrested over flag-raising (05/12/2003) #7044
ABC AUSTRALIA, 04/12/2003 23:00:49
Four students from the Indonesian province of Papua have reportedly been arrested in
Central Java for flying a separatist flag tied to balloons.
Indon military flexes muscle on Aceh rebel anniversary (05/12/2003) #7042
ABC AUSTRALIA, 04/12/2003 21:03:26
The Indonesian military has mounted a show of strength in Aceh province to try to
thwart attempts by separatist rebels to mark the 27th anniversary of their movement.
Poso Christians Daily Cross - Being Shot at! (04/12/2003) #7038
Masariku Network, 04 December 2003
Joko Harmono, Dec 3 2003. "When Jesus said to take up the cross and follow Him,
we didn't expect it to be this dangerous," said a Christian man from Poso who
preferred not to be identified. That statement probably expresses the feeling of many
in the Poso Christian community.
Papua: A Christian People Seriously at Risk (04/12/2003) #7037
Religious Liberty Prayer Bulletin - No. 249 - Wed 03 Dec 2003
Masariku Network, 04 December 2003
The indigenous people of Papua (Irian Jaya) are Melanesian and predominantly
Christian, estimated by Operation World at over 90%, and mostly Protestant. They
have been living under Indonesian rule since 1963. The Indonesian military (which has
invested heavily in Papua's resources) has been involved in gross human rights
abuses against the oppressed indigenous Papuans. In recent years, primarily since
East Timor achieved independence, Papua has seen a dramatic influx of
pro-Indonesia militias and Islamic militants, particularly Laskar Jihad. Islamists saw
East Timor as 'part of the Islamic world' (bin Laden, November 2001). They no doubt
see Papua the same way.
Militia leader planning youth group in Papua (04/12/2003) #7036
ABC AUSTRALIA, 04/12/2003 17:12:43
A notorious former East Timorese militia leader is said to be planning to form a
pro-Jakarta youth group in Indonesia's Papua province.
Muslim leader says radical Islamists losing ground (04/12/2003) #7035
ABC AUSTRALIA, 04/12/2003 11:22:47
Indonesia has been accused of softening its stand on militancy following a Jakarta
court decision to clear Muslim cleric, Abu Bakar Bashir, of treason.
Papuans reject "Anjing" Guterres plan (04/12/2003) #7034
to form pro-integration group
The Jakarta Post, December 04, 2003
Nethy Dharma Somba, The Jakarta Post, Jayapura, Papua. Former East Timorese
militia leader Eurico Guterres plans to establish a branch of his pro-integration Red
and White Defender Front (FPMP) in troubled Papua province, but local people have
opposed it.
I was temporary JI leader: Defendant Abu Rusydan (04/12/2003) #7033
The Jakarta Post, December 04, 2003
P.C. Naommy, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. The defendant in a trial related to the Bali
bombings told the court on Wednesday that he was asked by those attending a
meeting in April 2002 to replace Islamic cleric Abu Bakar Ba'asyir as the Jamaah
Islamiyah (JI) operations leader.
Moderate Muslim leader backs Bashir ruling (04/12/2003) #7032
ABC AUSTRALIA, 03/12/2003 23:04:55
One of Indonesia's leading moderate Muslims has welcomed the decision by a
Jakarta court to clear extremist cleric Abu Bakar Bashir of treason.
Worshippers slain by Terrorists during Church Service (04/12/2003) #7031
Masariku Network, 04 December 2003
Poso, Joko Harmono, Nov 30 2003. Tonight, as the congregation in Tabamawo, 120
km (70 miles) east of Poso, sat attentively, taking in the sermon being delivered by
their pastor's wife, Sandra Tengker, two gunmen arrived on motorcycles, coming to
the Church door and delivered their fatal shots.
Military to prevent GAM members celebrating anniversary (04/12/2003) #7029
The Jakarta Post, 12/3/2003 3:36:23 PM
JAKARTA (Agencies): Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Gen. Endriartono Sutarto has
said the military will prevent the separatist Free Aceh Movement (GAM) from
celebrating its anniversary on Dec. 4.
Tutut For President? (04/12/2003) #7028
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 3, 2003 09:58 PM
Laksamana.Net - Always expect the unexpected in Indonesian politics. A political
party formed at the behest of disgraced former president Suharto has nominated his
super-rich eldest daughter Siti Hardiyanti 'Tutut' Rukmana as its presidential
candidate for next year's elections.
Suharto and Pesantren al Zaytun (04/12/2003) #7026
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 3, 2003 02:24 PM
Laksamana.Net - Critics of the Maahad al Zaytun Islamic boarding school (pesantren)
filed a complaint with the police last week against National Intelligence Agency (BIN)
chief Hendropriyono in a move that possesses the momentum for uncovering possible
cooperation in the past between the Suharto and Habibie regimes and those allegedly
linked to radical Muslim activists.
Govt plans to launch offensive against Poso attackers (03/12/2003) #7024
The Jakarta Post, December 03, 2003
Irvan NR and Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta/Palu. In response to
a series of attacks on villages in Poso over the past week, the government will take
the offensive in dealing with security problems in this remote Central Sulawesi town.
Poso on Code Red Alert (03/12/2003) #7021
Masariku Network, 03 December 2003
Joko Harmono, Poso, November 29, 2003. As missiles, bombs and bullets light up
the sky, Poso goes on to the highest alert, Code Red (Siaga 1). The danger, terror
and psychological war continue to escalate and Christians huddle in their homes,
praying, weeping, and wondering.
Timeline: Baasyir, Bombs & the Law (03/12/2003) #7017
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 3, 2003 06:20 AM
Laksamana.Net - Following is a brief look at key events in the life of Abu Bakar
Baasyir, focusing mostly on his legal battles after the October 2002 Bali nightclub
bombings.
Supreme Court to Have Final Say on Baasyir (03/12/2003) #7016
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 3, 2003 05:27 AM
Laksamana.Net - Lawyers for radical Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Baasyir on Tuesday
(2/12/03) appealed to the Supreme Court to release their client and overturn his three
year jail sentence for falsification of identity documents and immigration violations.
Death threats continue against local PKB clerics (03/12/2003) #7014
The Jakarta Post, December 03, 2003
Ainur R. Sophiaan and Muhammad Nafik, The Jakarta Post, Surabaya/Jakarta. More
clerics with the National Awakening Party (PKB) have received death threats following
the recent slaying of a party leader in Lumajang regency, East Java, which was
believed to be politically motivated, PKB executives said on Tuesday.
More Aceh Killings Ahead of GAM Anniversary (03/12/2003) #7013
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 2, 2003 11:48 PM
Laksamana.Net - The military says it has shot dead three separatist rebels and
seized weapons in a series of gunfights in Aceh, while the government has warned
that repressive measures may be taken to prevent celebrations of the Free Aceh
Movement's 33rd anniversary.
Indonesian prosecutors to appeal Bashir ruling (02/12/2003) #7012
ABC AUSTRALIA, 02/12/2003 21:09:18
Indonesian prosecutors say they will appeal against a High Court decision clearing
radical Islamic cleric Abu Bakar Bashir of treason and reducing his prison sentence
from four years to three.
Papua police move criticised (02/12/2003) #7007
BBC World News, Tuesday, 2 December, 2003, 12:29 GMT
[Photo: Timbul Silaen stood trial over the 1999 violence in East Timor]. Human rights
groups have criticised Indonesia's appointment of a police chief accused of failing to
prevent violence in East Timor to the new chief in another restive province.
Indonesian court overturns Bashir treason conviction (02/12/2003) #7004
ABC AUSTRALIA, 02/12/2003 09:27:39
An Appeals Court in Indonesia has overturned a treason conviction against radical
cleric Abu Bakar Bashir, and reduced his sentence.
High Court overturns Ba'asyir treason conviction (02/12/2003) #7003
The Jakarta Post, December 02, 2003
Muninggar Sri Saraswati, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. The Jakarta High Court has
cleared Islamic cleric Abu Bakar Ba'asyir of treason charges and reduced his jail
sentence from four years to three for immigration offenses and document forgery,
says Central Jakarta Prosecutor Office Head Salman Maryadi.
Reinforcements sent to probe Poso attacks (02/12/2003) #7002
The Jakarta Post, December 02, 2003
Irvan NR and Abdul Khalik, The Jakarta Post, Palu/Jakarta. The Central Sulawesi
provincial police dispatched dozens of detectives on Monday to the ravaged Poso
regency to investigate recent attacks in two subdistricts here that killed four people.
Police reinforcements sent to Indonesian central Sulawesi (02/12/2003) #7001
ABC AUSTRALIA, 02/12/2003 00:00:20
Police in the eastern Indonesian district of Poso say 200 reinforcements have arrived,
after renewed attacks on non-Muslims claimed four lives over the weekend.
Baasyir Cleared But Case Uncertain (02/12/2003) #6999
LAKSAMANA.Net, December 1, 2003 11:02 PM
Laksamana.Net - Lawyers representing radical Islamic cleric Abu Bakar Baasyir were
up in arms Monday as two key issues in the cleric's struggle aganist the state came
to a head. While they waited for official notification of the good news – that an
appeals court had cleared their client of treason – their frustration at Baasyir's
continued detention turned into threats of further legal action.
Indonesia court clears Bashir of treason, cuts jail (02/12/2003) #6998
Reuters, 01 Dec 2003 11:21:25 GMT
By Achmad Sukarsono and Jerry Norton
JAKARTA, Dec 1 (Reuters) - An Indonesian high court has cleared radical Muslim
preacher Abu Bakar Bashir of treason but upheld other charges.
Bashir Acquitted of Treason Charges (02/12/2003) #6997
VOA News, 01 Dec 2003, 11:35 UTC
Tim Johnston - Jakarta. An appeals court in the Indonesian capital has acquitted of
treason charges the Muslim cleric accused of leading a regional terrorist organization.
Abu Bakar Bashir was convicted in September of inciting rebellion against the
government and sentenced to four years in prison. He has maintained his innocence,
saying that he was merely campaigning to implement Islamic Sharia law in Indonesia.
Indonesian court clears Bashir of treason (02/12/2003) #6996
ABC AUSTRALIA, 01/12/2003 23:09:51
An appeal court in the Indonesian capial, Jakarta, has overturned a treason conviction
against militant Muslim cleric Abu Bakar Bashir.
Indonesian forces cut down separatist flag in Papua (02/12/2003) #6995
ABC AUSTRALIA, 01/12/2003 20:06:37
Reports from the Indonesian province of Papua say police and troops have cut down a
separatist flag, on the anniversary of an independence proclamation.
Separatists Mark 'Independence Day' Papua Province (02/12/2003) #6994
VOA News, 01 Dec 2003, 11:40 UTC
Tim Johnston - Jakarta. Separatists in Indonesia's Papua province marked what they
consider independence day on Monday by defying a government ban on raising their
flag. Recent administrative changes imposed by Jakarta have increased tensions in
the province, and there seems to be no sign that discontent with Indonesian rule is
easing.
West Papua's aspirations for independence (02/12/2003) #6993
Radio Singapore International, December 1, 2003
The Indonesian province of Irian Jaya borders Papua New Guinea and forms the
western half of the world's second largest island.
Hundreds of Papuans defy police (02/12/2003) #6992
One News [New Zealand], Dec 01, 2003
Hundreds of Papuan separatists defied police, an Indonesian military shoot-on-sight
order and resurgent militia gangs to raise flags and demand a future free of Jakarta on
their outlawed independence day.
Paramilitary police sent to Indonesia's Poso district (01/12/2003) #6988
ABC AUSTRALIA, 01/12/2003 15:09:47
Indonesian authorities are sending some 200 paramilitary police to reinforce security
in the restive district of Poso in Central Sulawesi.
Indon police warn Papuans against marking anniversary (01/12/2003) #6987
ABC AUSTRALIA, 01/12/2003 13:32:40
Indonesian police have warned people in the troubled province of Papua against trying
to mark the anniversary of an independence proclamation.
Rehabilitation funds to be disbursed in Maluku provinces (01/12/2003) #6986
The Jakarta Post, December 01, 2003
M. Azis Tunny, The Jakarta Post, Ambon, Maluku. The central government has
proposed to the House of Representatives (DPR) that Maluku province receive Rp 1
trillion (US$118 million) to rebuild after years of religious violence, a government official
said.
Jakarta weakens support for Papua's autonomy law (01/12/2003) #6983
The Jakarta Post, December 01, 2003
Neles Tebay, Pontifical, University of Urbaniana, Rome. Despite strong opposition
from Papua, the government of Indonesia installed Brig. Gen. (ret) Abraham O. Ataruri
as acting governor of West Irian Jaya, on Nov. 14. The installation clearly marks the
official split of West Irian Jaya from Papua province.
Police to break up Papuan independence day rallies (01/12/2003) #6981
The Jakarta Post, 11/30/2003 5:32:41 PM
JAKARTA (AP): Indonesian police Sunday vowed to break up any rallies in the
country's remote Papua province to mark the failed Dec. 1 declaration of the region's
independence 42 years ago.
Getting around the inter-religious marriage law (01/12/2003) #6980
The Jakarta Post, December 01, 2003
Dewi Santoso, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta. "Imagine ... no religion ...", as John Lennon
once put it, then Agus would have had no barriers against marrying his beloved
girlfriend. It was back in 1986 when Agus, a native of Magelang, Central Java, had to
convert to Islam as it was the only way he could marry his lover and obtain legal
status for their marriage.
Terrorists Continue to Assassinate and (01/12/2003) #6979
Provoke Christians in Poso
Masariku Network, 01 December 2003
Joko Harmono, Poso, Nov 27 2003. Last night the sound of bullets whistling through
the air, bombs exploding and the cries of "Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar" (Allah is great)
again broke through the balmy tropical evening in equatorial Poso, Central Sulawesi,
Indonesia.
Fresh armed attacks in Poso target Balinese (01/12/2003) #6978
migrant community
The Jakarta Post, December 01, 2003
Irvan NR, The Jakarta Post, Palu, Central Sulawesi. Four people were killed in two
separate attacks on a single village in the Central Sulawesi town of Poso over the
weekend, apparently targeting Balinese migrants.
Four killed in fresh violence in Indonesia's central Sulawesi (01/12/2003) #6977
ABC AUSTRALIA, 30/11/2003 22:44:26
Indonesian police say four people have been killed and four others injured in the latest
outburst of sectarian violence in the district of Poso in Central Sulawesi.
Four killed in fresh violence in Indonesia's Poso district (01/12/2003) #6976
ABC AUSTRALIA, 30/11/2003 22:44:26
Indonesian police say four people have been killed and four others injured in the latest
outbursts of sectarian violence in the district of Poso in Central Sulawesi.
Two killed in fresh violence in Indonesia's Poso district (01/12/2003) #6975
ABC AUSTRALIA, 30/11/2003 15:25:17
Indonesian police say two people have been killed in the latest outburst of sectarian
violence to hit the restive district of Poso in Central Sulawesi.
Poso Attacks Leave Four Dead (01/12/2003) #6974
LAKSAMANA.Net, November 30, 2003 07:46 PM
Laksamana.Net - Intercommunal violence appears to be escalating in Poso, Central
Sulawesi, with the latest spate of bombings and attacks leaving four people dead and
four more seriously injured.
'Ninja Killers' Resurface in East Java (01/12/2003) #6973
LAKSAMANA.Net, November 30, 2003 11:28 PM
Laksamana.Net - Two kyai religious leaders affiliated to the party of former president
Abdurrahman Wahid were murdered last week in East Java. Wahid maintains the
killings are politically motivated and mark a resurgence in the so-called 'ninja killings'
that swept across the province in 1998.
Fears of Militia Aggression in Papua (01/12/2003) #6972
LAKSAMANA.Net, November 29, 2003 09:21 PM
Laksamana.Net - Ahead of West Papua's 'independence day' commemorations on 1
December, the ranks of pro-Indonesia militias are swelling and members of the
notorious 'Merah Putih' militia led by Eurico Guterres are allegedly among them.
Indonesia - OCHA Consolidated Situation Report No. 156 (01/12/2003) #6969
22 - 28 November 2003
ACEH * During the week, local press reported that 23 GAM members were killed as
result of violent incidents in Aceh province.
CENTRAL SULAWESI * The Jakarta Post reported on Thursday (27 Nov.) that a
homemade bomb exploded near a housing complex in Lawanga subdistrict, Poso
district early on Wednesday (26 Nov.), just hours after a group of unidentified men
opened fire in a neighbouring village. No casualties were reported.
MALUKU * A local newspaper, Siwalima, reported on Saturday (22 Nov.) that the
Maluku Police launched a special operation called "Ketupat Lilin" (rice cake and
candle) during the festive season in order to improve the security situation in the
province. 2,000 security personnel are on guard for this event. Head of Maluku Police
also warned the community of a possibility of bomb explosions during the festive
season.
PAPUA * Antara news service reported on Thursday (27 November) that 50 people
were arrested by Manokwari Police for flying the West Melanesian Flag. The local
Police Chief stated that the suspects might have raised the flags to commemorate the
declaration of the West Melanesian state on Nov. 27, 1997.
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