RI-PNG border secure: Military

RI-PNG border secure: Military

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Commander of the Trikora regional military command, Maj. Gen. Dunidja, said yesterday that the border between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea is secure.

At the same time, however, Dunidja called on local people to remain on the alert against possible attacks by the Free Papua separatist organization.

The separatists recently attacked the villages of Ikcan Baru and Arso in the regencies of Merauke and Jayapura, killing one and taking a score of villagers hostage, Antara reported.

Dunidja said efforts were continuing to capture the rebels. The rebels are believed to still be on the Indonesian side of the border.

Indonesia and PNG share a border of about 800 kilometers in length. (swe)