Authorities know culprits in riots

JAKARTA (JP): City authorities are zeroing in on people involved in massive riots throughout the city last month, Governor Sutiyoso said yesterday.

Speaking after meeting with President B.J. Habibie at the Bina Graha presidential office, Sutiyoso said data had been compiled on which areas they came from.

"We have identified, for example, which kampongs the people who looted and burned the Glodok business district came from, and the residences of others involved in rioting in Kapuk."

City officials are in the process of educating the people so they will not be liable to commit such wanton destruction again, he added.

At least 4,940 buildings, including traditional markets, shopping centers, banks, gas stations and residential houses, were damaged in varying degrees during the massive rioting. Total losses in the city are estimated at Rp 2.5 trillion.

Sutiyoso also said that he had asked the central government to arrange extra security at business centers, such as Glodok, in the effort to revive economic activities.

"I hope shopping complexes like in Glodok will not only be safeguarded by security officers or those of civilian defense units, but also military officers.

"The presence of the military officers is to give businesspeople greater assurance for the resumption of their activities."

Sutiyoso also reported the city's plan to rebuild damaged markets, particularly traditional ones.

"We need funds of about Rp 61 billion for the renovation activities and the finance minister has promised to provide the money soon."

During his meeting with the President, the governor said he also reported on preparations for the Jakarta Fair, to be opened by Habibie on July 4. (ind)