E. Java military encourages people to confront rioters

JAKARTA (JP): Military officials, attempting to assuage fears stirred up by rumors of renewed rioting likely in East and Central Java, have given people the go-ahead to defend themselves against rioters.

East Java military chief Maj. Gen. Djoko Subroto said people in the province, including Chinese-Indonesians, should join forces in fighting rioters attempting to disrupt security and political stability.

"Aware that the people are ready to fight against them, (would-be) rioters would think twice before causing unrest," Subroto said in the provincial capital Surabaya Tuesday evening.

He said people had the right to protect their property and fight those who tried to create instability in the province.

"I hope people will have the courage to try to defend themselves. Of course, we will not let them fight on their own. We are always on the front line," Antara quoted him as saying.

Local media reported that over the past week, many people, especially those of Chinese descent, were troubled by rumors of more rioting following the massive May unrest in Surabaya, Surakarta, Central Java, and Jakarta.

Some people have reportedly sought protection from security forces.

Djoko also urged the public to be wary of rumors aimed at fostering friction between indigenous and nonindigenous people.

"The nation is one. We do not need to hate and harm one another."

He said the formation of neighborhood security patrols would encourage all Indonesians to work together in defending themselves.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Tyasno Sudarto, chief of the Diponegoro Military Command overseeing Central Java and Yogyakarta, urged people to remain calm, saying that the military guaranteed defense and security in the province.

"The military is responsible for security in the town of Solo (popular name of Surakarta) and surrounding areas. But, the people should also help maintain stability," he said.

Many people have reportedly fled to the city's outskirts amid the rumors of renewed rioting. Many are still traumatized by the May riots when houses and shops were looted and burned and women were sexually assaulted.

Tyasno called on people who have fled the city to return home. (rms)