Protesters greeted by large banner

JAKARTA (JP): Some 100 anti-Soeharto protesters marching to the residence of the former president on Jl. Cendana, Central Jakarta, were greeted by a large banner erected by police at the scene.

The banner, written in Indonesian, read: "Welcome, Protesters. Obey Law number 9/1998 on Freedom of Speech in Public Places. The Police are Ready to Serve and Protect You, but any Anarchic Acts will Result in Stern Measures. Central Jakarta Police Precinct."

Upon the arrival of the protesters, most of whom seemed somewhat stunned after reading the banner, some of the police officers were seen sniggering in their direction. The students were from the Student Action for Reform and Democracy Front (Famred).

As usual, the protesters demanded that Soeharto and his cronies be tried by the people for their alleged corruption.

No clashes were reported although many of the protesters hurled verbal abuse at the police, who had tightly cordoned off the street.

Head of the Central Jakarta Police's Command and Operations Control Center, Asst. Supt. Ricky F. Wakano, told reporters that the erection of the banner was a proactive measure by the police to educate protesters.

"I have put up a similar banner near the U.S. Embassy, where protesters normally stage their rallies," said Ricky, adding that the Cendana banner would be taken down once the rally was over. (07)