Beware of intruders: Police

JAKARTA (JP): City police chief Maj. Gen. Noegroho Djajoesman warned security personnel of all 48 political parties on Monday of the possible presence of "uninvited intruders".

"We ask you to be on alert physically and mentally. Don't be easily influenced by rumors until you check the truth. We all know how irresponsible people get carried away during these moments," Noegroho told around 10,000 security members of the parties contesting for the June 7 general election.

The parade of parties' security personnel all attired in their respective colorful uniforms at the Senayan Indoor Stadium in Central Jakarta was designed to show preparations for a clean and safe campaigning period and general election.

According to Noegroho, the city police have found strong indications that intruders have already entered several parties.

"Several clashes occurred abruptly between political parties in other provinces. Although it's minor and far away from us, for police it's already an indicator that we have to be alert," he said.

Some members of the parties' security personnel have received training on how to handle crowds and negotiate with other political parties twice at the Police School in Lido, West Java last week.

"The lessons you've received from us can be applied as you will act as police with limited authority while waiting for the arrival of police," he told the crowd.

None of the parties' security personnel were allowed to arm themselves with any type of weapon, except a stick and a whistle.

"During the campaign, they (security members) will help police clear traffic and also to control their fellow party members," Noegroho said. (emf)