15,000 troops to secure Jakarta

Jakarta: The Jakarta authorities has ordered some 15,000 security personnel to the capital as a safety precaution during the coming holidays of Idul Fitri, Christmas and the New Year, Governor Sutiyoso said.

"The Jakarta police will lead the operation to maintain security, (with) troops from Indonesian Military (TNI), National Police and city administration security officers," Sutiyoso said Monday after meeting President Megawati Soekarnoputri.

He added that the city administration will cooperate with mass organizations to keep the peace and order in the capital.

Last year, the city saw shocking incidents of Christmas bombings in at least four churches, and some across the country that claimed dozens of lives.

"We also will hold massive prayer on Dec.15 involving the Ansor Youth Movement, Muhammadiyah Youth organization and Pemuda Pancasila," Sutiyoso said.

The President is scheduled to attend the celebration.--JP