Police homes destroyed in fire

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Ten homes belonging to Jayapura Police officers were destroyed by fire on Tuesday at about 8:45 p.m., Antara reported.

Firefighters only managed to extinguish the fire on Jl. Klofkamp after it had gutted the buildings.

"I couldn't save anything except for what was in the living room, including my uniform and documents," Chief Sgt. Raka Wiratna, a traffic police officer said, adding he was grateful that his family was safe.

The precinct's deputy commander, Maj. Herry Hernowo, said victims could shelter at the station.

The cause of the fire and the value of the material losses had yet to be calculated, he said. Police officers were seen trying to salvage their valuables among the ruins.