Police questioned over Ambon riots

JAKARTA (JP): Maluku Police chief Col. Bugis Saman said on Friday at least three police officers were questioned by military police for alleged involvement in weeks of sectarian clashes in the province, Antara reported.

But Bugis urged the public to abide by the presumption of innocence for the officers.

He emphasized there would be no police cover-up if their involvement was proven.

Clashes between Muslim and Christian residents since mid- January have left at least 200 people dead.

Bugis also said at least 207 people were named suspects for vandalism or murder during the unrest.

He said some of the people would be put on trial, which are scheduled to start on Monday.

Days of calm broke on Friday when dozens of public transportation drivers staged a protest at the provincial military headquarters after one of their colleagues was hit by an arrow near the downtown Al-Fatah Mosque. (byg)