Business resumes in Nabire

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Economic activity in Nabire regency showed signs of recovery on Saturday after almost a week of total standstill due to rioting, police said.

Nabire Police chief Lt. Col. Faizal A.N. said in a telephone interview that order had been restored and markets, government offices and private companies had resumed activities.

He said roadblocks erected by the Papuan Security Force were removed on Friday afternoon by the security personnel and local residents.

"The roadblocks were cleared following a meeting between Regent A.P. Youw, local officials, community figures and religious and tribal leaders," Faizal said.

He confirmed that three people were killed and at least 13 others injured in the rioting. Witnesses, however, put the death toll at four.

Armed with arrows, machetes and spears, some 2,000 people attacked the local police headquarters on Wednesday in retaliation of the death of a fellow Irianese in Monday's clash. (01/eba)