Military capture separatist rebels

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Troops of the Trikora Military Command separately captured on Dec. 26 and Dec. 28 three members of a "security disturbance" group, a military spokesman said.

Antara quoted Lt. Col. Herry Risdyanto as saying Tuesday the three were caught in two different places -- the first two in Ubano village, and the other in Tipakotu village.

Risdyanto said the members might have intentionally allowed themselves to be captured.

"They are fed up living in the forest and they get bored of the (empty) promises of their leader, Tadius Yogi," he said.

The military call separatist rebels here Gerakan Pengacau Keamanan or security disturbance group. The rebels have in the past resorted to violence to further their cause.

The captured security disturbance group members will be educated on Indonesia's development, Risdyanto said. (swe)