Security in Aceh, E. Timor restored

JAKARTA (JP): Despite the latent threats of separatist groups, security in the troubled provinces of Aceh, Irian Jaya and East Timor has been gradually strengthened, Armed Forces (ABRI) Commander Gen. Feisal Tanjung said yesterday.

The military has the upper hand over the separatist groups in the three provinces, Feisal said during a hearing with Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR).

He conceded however that these rebel movements, which the military officially terms as security disturbance groups, can still trigger instability within Indonesia.

The general said that these groups have switched away from waging an armed struggle, and are now campaigning for international recognition.

Feisal said the social situation in Aceh has been gradually improving as evidenced by the active participation of local people in ABRI's rural development program there.

The sense of nationalism among the people in Irian Jaya has also grown and the separatist cause is becoming increasingly unpopular, he said.

ABRI is continuing its territorial operations to ensure stability in the three regions, employing a persuasive approach to improve the people's sense of nationalism.

He added however that ABRI's territorial operations in a number of regions in Indonesia are suffering from lack of funds.

Asked by legislators about allegations of human rights violations by troopers in East Timor, Feisal admitted that there have been a number of abuses but that those responsible have been punished in accordance with the law.

"But, I have to tell you that most reports about human rights violations in East Timor are baseless and untrue; the allegations came from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) who want to discredit the government and ABRI both at home and overseas," he emphasized. (rms)