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