Market brawl leaves 16 injured

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Clashes in the Abepura traditional market have left 16 people severely injured as of Monday, Antara reported.

The news agency did not identify the victims, but said they had suffered stab wounds.

The market reopened for business on Monday after security personnel restored order. The security forces were seen standing on alert throughout the market.

Witnesses said the clashes involved locals and migrants from Bugis, South Sulawesi. They said the violence began on Saturday after two locals, identified as Toto Lano and Hitam Watofa, were stabbed by migrant traders.

The two disputing groups were involved in police-brokered talks late on Monday. (amd)