Fresh clash erupts in Ambon

AMBON, Maluku: A communal clash between two gangs of warring youths reignited in Central Maluku late on Saturday, leaving five buildings damaged and one totally destroyed.

The youths from the Hitu Lama and Hitu Messing subdistricts have been feuding for months. It was not known what had sparked the dispute.

Police officers sent to the area detained four people believed to be the provocateurs of clash, Ambon Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Leonidas Braksan said.

Police and local government officials have met with local leaders in both subdistricts to try and defuse the tension. -- JP