'Old' gripes pour in on ABRI

BANDARLAMPUNG, Lampung: The provincial military office has reportedly been inundated with complaints about infractions committed by Armed Forces (ABRI) officers, though most were classified as "old cases".

Military police chief Lt. Col. Bagus Heroe Sucahyo confirmed the increase but did not give any figures. He was quoted by Antara as saying here yesterday the information should not be construed as indicating a sharp recent increase.

"You could say there was an increase if the reported cases were new, but they were old cases," he said. "I believe the many reports were a positive response toward reform, and that people have become more open."

Antara cited the alleged shooting of a suspect in a police case by two police officers from Telukbetung Barat police station. The two are now in military police detention. (swe)