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