Protesters accused of rape

Protesters accused of rape

JAYAPURA, Papua: The regent of Paniai, who in January faced a
week of demonstrations against his policies, accused the
protesters on Tuesday of having raped nine women, and damaging
his residence.

"They not only staged demonstrations but also damaged my
official residence and raped the women," Regent Januarius said.

The demonstrations, which lasted from Jan. 21 to Jan. 29, were
staged by three groups representing locals and students from
Paniai regency.

Rallying in front of the regent's house, they were demanding
that the local council dismiss Januarius. According to the
protesters, he had failed to improve public services in Paniai.

The regent said the protesters had attacked his house upon
hearing that he had left through the rear entrance. They then
raped the women inside the house, he alleged.

A witness confirmed Januarius' statement. But there has been
no response yet from any of the three protesting groups. --
Antara