School off in Brebes as fear spreads

BREBES, Central Java: Four elementary schools in Buara village have been closed since Monday reportedly because of fears of escalating violence in the area following last week's election of the village head, Antara reported.

Teachers of the schools said they had been threatened by supporters of one of the losing contestants in the election.

The elected village chief Sudaryanto beat two other contestants in the election. But the supporters of candidate Cahyo cried foul play and have been attacking the houses of Sudaryanto supporters.

Teachers at the elementary schools have asked the police to step up security in the area and said that they would reopen the schools once they felt it was safe for the pupils. (01)