Police to arrest Papua leader

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Police have vowed to arrest Papua community leader Theys Eluay for allegedly being behind the hoisting of the separatist Morning Star flag in the easternmost province on Dec. 1.

A source told Antara here on Wednesday that police had officially summoned the self-claimed Papua leader. "But he failed to respond, therefore we will pick him up soon," the source, who requested anonymity, said.

According to the source, six other people will also be arrested for initiating a separatist flag hoisting ceremony in front of the Irian Jaya Art Center here.

"Police may use force if they refuse to respond to the new summons," the source said.

Theys Eluay had earlier claimed to be the man to blame for the ceremony.

Jayapura Police chief Lt. Col. Daud Sihombing confirmed the plan to arrest Theys.

Theys was actively gathering people for meetings prior to the flag hoisting ceremony.

Some have accused Theys of misusing innocent people to further his political ambitions. (sur)