ABC AUSTRALIA, 26/04/2004 04:14:34
Police and soldiers patrolling the Indonesian city of Ambon
Indonesian police and soldiers are patrolling the streets and guarding key sites in the
city of Ambon in the Muluku Islands.
Witnesses and hospital staff say at least 12 people died, and scores were wounded
as violence erupted in the city.
Police say 20 people had been detained, mainly members of the pro-independence
Front for Maluku's Sovereignty, for displaying the banned separatist flag.
The trouble began after the group defied a longstanding ban and staged a street
demonstration with flags to mark the 54th anniversary of the proclamation of a
self-styled South Maluku Republic.
Local governor, Karel Ralahalu says the clashes were not between Christians and
Muslims, but between independence supporters and their opponents.
Maluku police chief Bambang Sutrisno told residents to stay home after dark.
He says they should all work to keep Maluku stable.
26/04/2004 04:14:34 | ABC Radio Australia News
© 2001 Australian Broadcasting Corporation |
