Police questioned over Ambon riots

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)