Hendro warns people against racial issues

JAKARTA (JP): The head of the Jakarta branch of the Agency for Coordinating the Support for National Stability, Maj. Gen. Hendropriyono, called on the public to remain vigilant against the emergence of divisive racial issues.

In a briefing delivered by Central Jakarta Mayor Abdul Kahfi during a Saturday morning rally in support of the ongoing Operation Cleansing held at the National Monument (Monas) square, Hendro warned that the recent circulation of covert notes may incite ethnic discord, the Antara news agency reported.

Hendro is the popular name of the two-star army general.

Hendro, who is also Jakarta Military Commander, ordered security forces to take prudent action should such a case arise, but cautioned his men not to "overreact" in their response.

"Avoid taking measures that might further provoke the situation and instigate a riot," Hendro warned.

Around 16,000 security troops from army, police, marine and civilian detachments gathered at seven military garrisons in the greater Jakarta area on Saturday to participate in a simultaneous rally to demonstrate their solidarity behind the anti-crime drive.

At Monas square, the rally was attended by more than 680 personnel from Brigade Infantry I, a special motorcycle unit of the Jakarta Military Command, police forces, marines, the Army paratrooper Kopassus and the civilian guards (hansip).

Operation Cleansing is an aggressive crack-down on the rising criminal activity in Jakarta.

Kahfi said that although the operation has succeeded in curbing the crime rate, potential danger still lurks.

"There are always people in the community who wish to disrupt stability," he said. "It's better for us to be ready by taking preventive measures rather than repressive ones."

Kahfi also noted the importance of the operation in light of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum meeting in November which will be attended by, among others, U.S. President Clinton and Japanese Prime Minister Hata. (mds)