Police chief to be replaced

MANOKWARI, Irian Jaya: Manokwari Police chief Lt. Col. R.E. Hutabarat is expected to be replaced as the result of the shooting death of one person during the police's handling of a melee which erupted here on Sept. 25.

The disclosure came from Brig. Gen. Abraham O. Ataruri, who led the fact-finding team's investigation into the incident which left John Wamafma dead and four others injured.

"Our investigation has clearly shown that John Wamafma was shot dead by a bullet; he did not die from a Molotov cocktail," Abraham said.

His remarks counter claims by Hutabarat, who said the deceased died from injuries suffered from a Molotov cocktail.

A riot broke out in the town on Sept. 25, and the police, in their handling of the incident, allegedly used excessive force.

Abraham said the findings and recommendations of the fact- finding team had been submitted to the governor of Irian Jaya, who in turn referred them to National Police chief Gen. Roesmanhadi.

"We heard that Hutabarat will be replaced soon," Abraham, who is stationed in the marine corps, said. (34)