Hundreds demand compensation

BATAM, Riau: Tension has gripped Bintan Island during the past two days as hundreds of people rallied to demand higher compensation for their land, which is occupied by a company.

Local police said the crowd took over a power plant inside the Lodam industrial estate on the first day of the demonstration on Saturday, but dispersed upon the arrival of dozens of security personnel.

North Bintan Police chief First Lt. Saragih denied rumors on Sunday that some residents had been shot by the police.

"No one has been shot. We only arrested three men suspected of provoking the residents," Saragih said as quoted by Antara.

The locals were angry with PT Buana Mega Wisata for paying a mere Rp 100 in compensation for one square meter of their land. They demanded Rp 4,000 (US 57 cents) instead.

Saragih said the protesters continued with their rally on Sunday afternoon. Security personnel remained on alert for a possible outbreak of violence, he added. (04)