Security beefed up ahead of holiday

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Security authorities have vowed to boost security in the capital on the eve of Idul Fitri and Christmas holidays in anticipation of a repeat of last year's Christmas bombing spree.

National Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar said on Friday that police would intensify security at churches and mosques in the coming holidays.

"I have also asked the public to inform the police if there are places of worship without the presence of police officers. We will provide the gear to help the police carry out their duties during those days," Da'i said after attending a gathering at Vice President Hamzah Haz's official residence in Jakarta.

He further said that the police would also increase their intelligence activities to anticipate any possible violence during the holidays.

A series of bombings rocked several churches here and other major cities in the country on Christmas Eve last year. At least 15 people were killed and dozens were injured in the blasts. Police have not yet been able to solve the case nor capture any suspects.

Deputy Governor Abdul Kahfi said that Jakartans must be more alert over the next few days, "especially after we received intelligence information that certain radical groups will create chaos on the eve of Idul Fitri." He did not name the groups.

City administration officials held an unscheduled meeting with the police and military officials at City Hall on Friday to discuss and organize anticipatory security efforts.

The plan to beef up security here includes the deployment of 16,500 personnel from the police and military and 2,500 public order and civilian security officers from the city administration to maintain security on the eve of Idul Fitri and before the Christmas and New Year holidays. The officers will be posted at places of worship and other strategic spots.

Jakarta residents have been asked not to be easily provoked to join any riots occurring in the city.

Governor Sutiyoso had earlier urged residents not to conduct takbir keliling (a parade during which participants chant praises to Allah in vehicles around the city) to avoid any possible unrest.

Idul Fitri, which is based on the lunar calendar, and Christmas this year fall less than two weeks apart, with the post fasting festival falling on Dec. 16.