Release of community leader demanded

PEKANBARU, Riau: Hundreds of residents of West Bangkinang in Kampar descended on Riau Police Headquarters on Thursday, demanding the release of their community leader.

Hamzah Yunus had been detained since Wednesday, along with his son, Marhalim, and his driver, Yusri.

Hamzah was detained for questioning for allegedly seizing cranes and other heavy equipment belonging to state plantation company PTPN V. Hamzah seized the equipment after a prolonged dispute between him and the company over the ownership of 2,000 hectares of land in West Bangkinang. "They are being questioned as witnesses and not suspects," said Riau Police spokesman Adj. Sr. Comr. Pandiangan. -- JP