Canadian arrested in Irian Jaya

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Local police have arrested Canadian Greg Witson, 42, for illegal possession of a number of protected animals, said an Antara report yesterday.

Head of Jayapura police precinct Second Lt. B. Chris Rihulay said police also detained Nico Halatu, a local, for allegedly selling protected animals. The authorities are currently seeking lawyers to represent the Canadian.

Witson was reportedly in possession of 87 cocoons of various types of butterflies, and a number of snakes, including four- legged one. (swe)