Sand diggers go on rampage

MAGELANG, Central Java: Some 200 sand diggers in Jurangjero village here burned 13 excavating machines and an office belonging to a quarry company on Tuesday.

Two employees of the firm, Jumino, 16, and Rochmadi, 24, were injured during the attack, which followed a dispute over quarrying areas. The wounded workers were admitted to Muntilan hospital.

Local police estimated financial losses resulting from the fray at Rp 10 billion.

"The traditional sand diggers were upset because the company took over the area where they used to make their living from," First Lt. Rudito of Magelang Police said.

Foe a long time local people have quarried sand and marbles thrown up by Mount Merapi, but were classified as illegal due to the absence of local government's licenses.

A meeting between residents and local government officials on Wednesday concluded that the traditional sand diggers would be awarded a plot to quarry. (har/edt)