Month-long crackdown on criminals planned

JAKARTA (JP): All top city officials, including those in the police and military, are to meet on Friday in preparation for the planned month-long joint raid in the capital against criminal activities, particularly the possession of fire arms and explosive devices.

Governor Sutiyoso told reporters on Thursday that the joint operation, code named Jaya Mandiri Operation, was aimed at improving security in Jakarta for the well-being of its people and to regain the public's trust in security officers.

"All related security elements in the capital, including the Jakarta Military command and city administration will back up the police personnel during the operation to achieve maximum results," the governor said.

On Wednesday, City Police chief Insp. Gen. Nurfaizi announced the plan to conduct the joint operation, mostly to be carried out on the streets in the evenings, starting Friday.

According to Nurfaizi, the operation would focus on suspected criminals, including those involved in illegal weapons, drugs and explosives. He declined to give details.

Such raids have been frequently conducted, however this operation is being held in light of the deteriorating security.

At least 10 people were killed and 30 others injured in the bomb blast at the Jakarta Stock Exchange building on Wednesday last week, the latest in a series of explosions which led to the replacement of the National Police chief.

People have also called for Nurfaizi to be removed from his post as police have yet to reveal the masterminds behind the crimes.

Apart from the City Police chief, coordinating officials in the above operation are Governor Sutiyoso and the Jakarta Military Commander Maj. Gen. Slamet Kirbiantoro.

Nurfaizi said he had already dispatched his officers to potential areas of conflict such as religious facilities, business centers and other public places.

He added police have worked with managements of such facilities to tighten their security systems.

Sutiyoso, prior to meeting Nurfaizi on Wednesday at the latter's office, told reporters that he really hoped military members skilled in intelligence and explosives would participate in the raid.

"The most important objective is to solve (the recent bombing cases) and quell public anxiety," the governor added.

On Thursday, he called all Jakartans to give their full support to the planned operation.

"I also urge the public to resume the community security patrols to watch over their respective residential areas," Sutiyoso said. (dja/07)