Refugees' rice sold in public market

Refugees' rice sold in public market

BIAK, Irian Jaya: The Biak Numfor Legislative Council (DPRD)
urged local authorities to investigate the alleged misuse of rice
supplies intended as aid for Maluku and North Maluku refugees in
the regency.

"The authorities must investigation the case. We must ensure
the refugees gain humane treatment," councillor Bintoro of the
Reform Faction said on Tuesday.

He made the statement after receiving reports that a part of
rice earmarked for refugees was being sold at low prices in the
local market and that local traders had purchased the rice from
local government officers.

More than 2,400 people from Maluku and North Maluku have taken
refuge in 24 villages in the regency since sectarian conflict
erupted in the provinces three years ago. --Antara