Banyuwangi regent facing the axe

SURABAYA: Maj. Gen. Ryamizard Ryacudu, the new chief of the East Java Brawijaya Military Command, said on Monday that Banyuwangi Regent Col. Turyono Purnomo could be replaced if the people so wished.

"If the people no longer like the regent, he could be replaced," he said here on Monday.

Residents believe Turyono is implicated in a killing spree in the regency which has so far claimed more than 150 lives. They have frequently called on the government to replace him.

"If the people wish to remove him, I will give them my support," Ryamizard said as quoted by Antara. (29)