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)