Rapid reaction unit planned

AMBON, Maluku: Governor Saleh Latuconsina said he wants to set up a rapid reaction unit, made up of military and police officers, to help him in his duties as head of the Regional Civil Emergency Authority, Antara reported on Saturday.

The unit will report directly to the governor, will be used to anticipate potential conflicts in the province, which is currently under a state of civil emergency.

Saleh did not say when the team would be formed, but said the present situation was not conducive.

The rapid reaction unit would complement the work of the Joint Battalion which was set up by the military as a strike force to deal with communal conflicts in the province. (04)