House probes disappearances

House probes disappearances

SIGLI, Aceh: A fact-finding team of the House of
Representatives arrived in Pidie regency on Tuesday to start its
investigation into reported disappearance of hundreds of people
over the past decade.

Led by Hari Sabarno of the Armed Forces (ABRI) faction, the
team heard testimony from residents at the local legislative
council. The council has reportedly received 440 reports of
missing people and torture by ABRI officers.

The team also includes Taryo Tarmadi, former West Java
regional military chief. The hearing was held behind closed
doors, Antara said.

Later in the day, the team visited a traditional house used as
a base of the Army's special force (Kopassus) in Billie Aron
village, Glumpang Dua district. It is said to be the site where
ABRI officers interrogated people they accused of involvement in
the separatist movement.

The team was scheduled yesterday to continue its investigation
trip to Lhokseumawe in North Aceh.