128 protesters held in Kalabahi

KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: The Alor Regency Police in Kalabahi arrested on Thursday night 128 people who were protesting against newly elected Regent Ans Takalapeta and Deputy Regent Abraham Maukala.

Alor Police chief Sr. Adj. Comr. Isac Borel confirmed the arrests in Kupang on Friday, and said police were still questioning the suspects.

He said the protest began at 8 p.m on Thursday. Soon after the protest started, protesters occupied the Alor legislative council over the outcome of the recent election of regent and deputy regent.

In the election, Ans and Abraham received 15 of the 23 votes from the Alor legislative council.

After the protesters refused to leave the building, the police moved in and began to make arrests.

The protesters alleged that the recent election was tainted by money politics. -- Antara