14 homes razed in fire

MAUMERE, East Nusa Tenggara: At least 14 homes in Bondo Boghila village, Laura district, West Sumba regency, were razed by fire on Tuesday morning, an official said on Wednesday.

Head of Bondo Boghila village Bora Saing, whose home was also destroyed in the fire, said there were no fatalities, but that he had seen a group of men near his house prior to the incident.

"One man suddenly yelled payawau (besiege). The other men surrounded my home and forced me to leave," he said.

"I watched them set my kitchen on fire and then they vandalized my home as I refused to leave."

Dismissing rumors that the fire was initiated by residents from neighboring Tana Righu district, Bora identified the perpetrators as Bondo Boghila villagers.

"There has been no conflict between residents of Laura and Tana Righu districts," he said.

Separately, West Sumba regent Thomas Langgar called on residents to remain calm and not become easily provoked. (yac/lup)