Call for fresh probe into May 23 riot

JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation called yesterday for another independent investigation into the May 23 riot in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, which claimed 123 lives.

The foundation had just completed a week-long investigation into the riot.

The investigating team concluded that the problems in the town were "not over yet", especially regarding human rights protection.

"(What's needed is) another investigation by an independent team which will not dismiss more forensic examinations of all the victims' bodies and witnesses' accounts," the foundation said in a statement.

The foundation said more research was needed to get a better idea of what happened in the riot.

"We urge the government to restore the public's sense of security by revoking its previous judgmental statement which branded those who had died as rioters and looters," said the statement signed by foundation chairman Bambang Widjojanto and secretary Munir.

The Banjarmasin riot erupted on the last day of the 27-day election campaign, when Golkar supporters clashed with United Development Party (PPP) supporters. It was Golkar's turn to campaign in the town on May 23.

Scores of buildings and vehicles were torched before security forces arrived to quell the unrest.

All 123 victims were found burned beyond recognition in the Mitra Plaza shopping mall.

The foundation said the government should not make statements which divided the public or created suspicion and fear.

The foundation also called on the government to restore the dignity of those whose rights had been abused during its handling of the riot.

"Their sense of security must be restored before they will have the courage to reveal objectively what they had witnessed in the riot," the foundation said.

The foundation said it would seek every opportunity to cooperate with professional organizations and local non- governmental organizations to help the families of riot victims.

Reports said Wednesday that 64 people would be tried in connection with the riot.

Kompas daily said the 64 would be charged with crimes ranging from carrying illegal weapons to looting.

Lt. Col. Kusbini Imbar told the daily that 55 others in detention were still being investigated.

South Kalimantan acting chief prosecutor Muhammad Taufik said the trials would begin on July 1. (aan)