'Instigators' behind Kupang riots

JAKARTA (JP): The rioting in the East Nusa Tenggara capital of Kupang on Monday that included attacks on a number of mosques might have been orchestrated, according to Governor Piet Alexander Tallo.

Tallo said in Kupang on Wednesday that at least two alleged instigators of the riot had been detained for questioning.

"They used religious sentiments to destroy the unity and harmony in this area," Tallo was quoted as by Antara as saying during a media conference in the city.

Also present at the briefing were Udayana Regional Military Commander Maj. Gen. Adam Damiri, speaker of the provincial legislature Simon Petrus Soliwoa and Kupang regent Paul Lawa Rihi.

According to Tallo, the riots were a part of a national-level political conspiracy to discredit the local government.

"I accept this ordeal as a disgrace. I am ready to take the consequences of this case from the national leader," he remarked.

Tallo said the mob burned down four mosques and damaged five others during the violence in the predominantly Christian city of 217,000.

Tallo said at least 18 people were injured in the unrest.

At least 25 houses, two shops, six motorcycles and six cars were also damaged in the frenzy which may have been a reprisal against a Nov. 22 riot in Jakarta in which 14 people died and 22 churches were burned or damaged.

The Kupang incident has sparked fears of further retaliation against churches.

Albeit wearily, Kupang slowly returned to daily life on Wednesday as government offices resumed activities despite the lack of public transportation.

Television station SCTV reported on Wednesday evening that 1,400 people had fled their ruined homes to seek shelter at local security posts.

There was no immediate official confirmation of this.

National Police spokesman Brig. Gen. Togar Sianipar said on Tuesday that the Armed Forces (ABRI) headquarters had sent 800 troops to Kupang to back up local personnel to restore law and order.

Four Christian youth and student groups in East Nusa Tenggara issued a joint statement on Tuesday calling on Christians to remain calm, the security authorities to investigate the violence and the government to provide protection and security for all religions.

President B.J. Habibie on Tuesday condemned the attacks and vowed "not to allow the burning of these places of worship."

Minister of Defense and Security/ABRI Commander Gen. Wiranto said here on Wednesday that the military would take stern measures against any rioters. (byg)