Four die in latest Aceh violence

BANDA ACEH, Aceh: At least four people have died, including two alleged rebels of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM), in separate incidents which broke out in the North Aceh and Pidie regencies on Saturday.

Police Special Operations deputy chief Supt. Yatim Suyatmo said a GAM member identified as Abdul Kadir was shot dead in the Kutamakmur district in North Aceh as he attempted to attack patrolling policemen.

"Abdul attempted to throw a hand grenade to escape the patrolling police officers in Kuta Makmur district," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

Suyatmo said the other rebel, identified as M. Daud, was shot in the Samudra Gedong district, North Aceh, while fleeing from police who had ordered him to be searched.

Suyatmo added that the two residents who were killed were accidentally shot in crossfire during a gunfight between GAM members and security officers in the Mutiara district, Pidie regency. (lup)