Rights group protests shooting

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: A rights group in Jayapura protested on Friday the shooting of demonstrators by policemen in Merauke on Wednesday.

John Rumbiak, spokesman for the Institute of Human Rights Studies and Advocacy, told The Jakarta Post the shooting in Merauke was a clear violation of human rights.

"We also want the Irian Jaya Police chief to explain the shooting to the public before punishing the shooters," John said.

Paskalis Betayob, 18, was shot and killed in the incident, and Petrus Ketam, 19, and Lazarus Kawakok, 18, are still being treated in the hospital for gunshot wounds.

Irian Jaya Police chief Brig. Gen. S.Y. Wenas said on Wednesday the police used rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, which was protesting the government's offer of autonomy for the province.

However, Dr. Steven Osok of Merauke State Hospital said a live bullet killed Paskalis.

Eleven policemen suffered wounds from traditional arrows during the clash, Wenas said. (eba)