Irianese detained for weapons

Irianese detained for weapons

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Eleven locals from Wamena were still
being detained here on Sunday after after they were apprehended
on Thursday for carrying sharp weapons.

They were part of a group of 61 people who left their hometown
in Arso and Genyem areas of the town of Wamena, about 290
kilometers southwest of here, amid rumors of a clash between
security forces and separatist rebels.

"The 11 men were caught bringing sharp weapons such as
machetes, arrows and bows. They were among a group of 61 refugees
seeking refuge at the border of Jayapura and Vanimo districts
near Papua Nugini," head of Jayapura Police Precinct Adj. to
Chief Comr. Daud Sihombing said.

"But shortly after their arrival in Jayapura, we managed to
persuade them to go home. When we searched the group, 11 men were
found carrying sharp weapons," officer Daud said.

"They said they heard rumors that a clash between security
forces and separatists would break out. We told them it's not
true," he asserted.

The 11 men are being detained at Jayapura Police Precinct,
pending further investigation.

They will likely be charged under State Emergency Law No.
60/1951 for illegal possession of weapons, police said.(35/edt)