Man killed in refugee's vendetta

UJUNGPANDANG, South Sulawesi: A passenger from Ambon, Maluku, Rulli Nanere, was murdered on Tuesday while on board the Siguntang ship heading to Ujungpandang.

Rulli, 29, who intended to go to Jakarta with his parents, both lecturers at the Pattimura University, was attacked by a group of refugees in the ship's canteen, a fellow passenger who was in one group with the family, Jhon, said.

The ship's security guards failed to save Rulli who suffered a severe brain injury. His body was brought to the Bhayangkara Hospital here.

Other refugees said the attackers wanted revenge for the maltreatment they received from their Christian rivals in Ambon. Thousands have fled communal violence here which has killed at least 450 people since January. (30/48)