Protesters greeted by large banner

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)