Tue, 08 Aug 2000

Open your trunk, please: Security

JAKARTA (JP): There was tight security for anyone entering the People's Consultative Assembly compound during the opening day of the Annual Session on Monday.

Everyone's identity was carefully checked and non-Assembly members required a special pass to get in.

Cars were thoroughly screened, each having to open their trunks, resulting in a line of cars waiting to enter.

Side entrances, such as the one near the Baiturrahman Mosque, were closed with barbed wire placed in front. Security personnel made sure everyone entered through the two main entrances of the complex.

It is unclear if the tight security will continue up to the end of the proceedings on Aug. 18, or whether it will be relaxed during days when the President and Vice President are not in attendance. (mds)