Police to launch searches for weapons, explosives

JAKARTA (JP): The police plan to launch three separate year- long operations all over the city early next month to search for weapons and explosives, as well as to enforce traffic regulations.

Jakarta police spokesman Sr. Comr. Anton Bachrul Alam said on Tuesday that the operations would be aimed at reducing the crime rate in the capital, and also creating a better environment in which to live for the public.

He asked for the public's understanding should any inconvenience be caused during the operations.

"Before we start the operations, I think I need to apologize to the members of the public for they will no doubt be inconvenienced during the operations as we may have to disrupt people's journeys, stop them, question them, and even search their belongings.

"And we will even enter boardinghouses as well as private houses to conduct our searches (for weapons and explosives)," Anton quickly added.

"The raids are now being planned and we are coordinating our efforts with the other relevant agencies in the city," he added.

The operations are code-named Zebra Jaya 2001, Sapu Jagat Jaya I and Brantas Jaya 2001.

The first operation, Zebra Jaya, would focus on ensuring compliance with traffic regulations on the part of motorists and motorcyclists, and was also aimed at reducing congestion in a number of busy areas in Jakarta.

"Other than upholding traffic regulations, such as the mandatory wearing of helmets by motorcyclists, this operation is also meant to minimize traffic congestion in busy locations, such as the Senen area and on Jl. Veteran (both in Central Jakarta)," Anton said.

The Sapu Jagat Jaya I operation would involve searches for weapons and explosives. Anton said the searches could be carried out on motorists and also in residences.

"For this operation, we would welcome any information from the public. If you know anyone who has, or places where there are, weapons or explosives, please let us know," the officer remarked.

The last operation, Brantas Jaya 2001, consisted of action against crimes on public transportation vehicles.

Anton said he was unable to give details on the total number of police personnel that would be deployed for the three operations, and would only say that they would be led by police chiefs in the Greater Jakarta area. (emf)