18 injured in Yogyakarta clash

YOGYAKARTA: At least 18 people were injured on Sunday when a clash broke out between local supporters of the United Development Party (PPP) and residents.

Yogyakarta Police chief of detectives Sr. Comr. Toto Sunyoto said the skirmish occurred along Jl. Mataram.

"Two of the 18 people are now being treated at Muhammadiyah Hospital for serious injuries, while the remaining 16 are being detained at the city police station," Toto said.

Toto said the violence occurred as hundreds of PPP supporters were returning home from a party gathering in Bantul regency. The officer said a group of local residents became angry after the PPP supporters hurled what they felt were taunts at them.

Witnesses said the clash began when local residents attempted to block off their neighborhoods to prevent the PPP supporters from passing through the area. (44)