One dead in clash

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya (JP): One person died and two others were critically injured when a mob clashed with police on Friday evening in the town of Manokwari, about 450 kilometers west of the Irian Jaya provincial capital of Jayapura.

According to witnesses, the incident started after a group of locals got into a tussle with several police officers near the harbor just after the passenger ship Dobonsolo docked.

The incident escalated and sparked a mass rampage in which several houses and public buildings were attacked.

It is highly suspected that the three victims were shot by police trying to control the melee.

Hospital sources in Manokwari confirmed that John Wamafma, 30, a farmer, died of bullet wounds. Two others -- Abraham Mambraku, 30, and Markus Kambu, 18 -- are being treated in intensive care.

Manokwari military police chief Lt. Asmil Umar pledged that if there was evidence that the deaths were caused by "improper police procedure" those responsible would be held accountable.

However, he underlined that there must be solid evidence, including witnesses, if the allegations are to be followed up.

Several community leaders on Saturday expressed their disgust to the Jayapura governor and called for the dismissal of Manokwari district police chief Lt. Col. RE Hutabarat.

"The people's aspirations deserve to be heard," Governor Freddy Numberi said. (34)