Cikupa clash ends peacefully

Cikupa clash ends peacefully

JAKARTA (JP): A clash between long-time residents and
newcomers at Telagasari village in Cikupa, Tangerang, ended
peacefully yesterday thanks to a meeting arranged by local
military officers.

The two parties hugged each other and apologized during the
meeting led by Tangerang Military District chief Lt. Col.
Karseno.

They all agreed to help repair the houses and other property
damaged in the incident that started Saturday and ended Sunday.

"It's just a misunderstanding," said a local religious leader,
who also attended the meeting at the military office.

Two people were wounded and 22 houses were destroyed in the
incident.

Police have questioned at least four people in the case.

The clash started after the native villagers caught a newcomer
stealing clothes in the neighborhood Friday.

Most newcomers are factory workers who rent houses in the
neighborhood.

The villagers beat-up the suspect, identified as On, 17, and
sent him to Cikupa Police subprecinct.

But On's family and friends who rent houses in a nearby
neighborhood unit went to the villagers' houses to ask what was
going on.

The newcomers went home after arguing with the villagers.

The local residents followed throwing stones and burning the
newcomers' houses.

Over 100 newcomers fled their houses to escape the attack.
(jun/cst)