Bigger allowance for troops in Aceh

Bigger allowance for troops in Aceh

JAKARTA: The House of Representatives has recommended the that
government increase the daily allowance for police and military
personnel deployed in the war-torn province of Aceh.

The recommendation was announced by a House team tasked with
monitoring the so-called integrated operation in Aceh at a
plenary session on Tuesday.

The team suggested the daily allowance be increased from Rp
21,000 ($2.5) per person to Rp 35,000 ($4).

Despite protests from the public as well as legislators, the
government on Nov. 19 extended the military operation in Aceh for
another six months.

The House monitoring team, headed by deputy speaker Soetardjo
Soerjogoeritno, also urged the government to provide the troops
with bullet-proof vests, metal detectors and sufficient
helicopters to ensure air mobility.

Legislators also emphasized the need to boost law enforcement
in the restive province. - JP