Maluku clashes claim two lives

AMBON, Maluku (JP): Two people died and at least five houses were gutted when communal clashes broke out on Wednesday at noon in Ahuru, about four kilometers east of Ambon, the provincial capital of riot-torn Maluku.

The two victims were rushed to Dr. Haulussy General Hospital in Ambon.

The victims, identified as Rudi Sahertian, 30, and Makatita, 40, reportedly died from gunshot wounds.

Both were residents of Ahuru village in Karang Panjang district, and had reportedly shot at their respective homes. However, further details of the incident were not available.

Witnesses said sounds of shots were heard from noon onwards and were still heard at 7 p.m.

Pattimura Military Commander Brig. Gen. Max Tamaela told The Jakarta Post by telephone on Wednesday that soldiers were already being deployed to Ahuru.

"We were forced to deploy additional soldiers to prevent the riot from spreading," Max said. (48/edt)