Ambon at standstill from days of unrest

AMBON, Maluku: The situation remained tense in the riot-torn city here on Tuesday as most activities were paralyzed after four consecutive days of communal clashes.

Virtually no public transportation or private vehicles were on the roads, which were blockaded at many spots by groups of armed youths,

Schools and businesses were temporarily closed.

Pattimura Military District Commander Brig. Gen. Max Tamaela said that Indonesian Military Commander Adm. Widodo A.S., who was expected to arrive here on Tuesday, temporarily postponed his visit.

"But he will probably be here in the next couple of days," Tamaela told The Jakarta Post by telephone.

Widodo is slated to officiate in the transfer of the security command in the province from the police to the military, and to brief local authorities on preparations for the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan and Christmas. (48/edt)