Police to arrest Papua leader

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)