Hundreds demand compensation

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)