Separatist rebels kill one soldier

Separatist rebels kill one soldier

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: One soldier was killed and another
injured in a clash this week with separatist rebels in Merauke
regency, Irian Jaya province, the official Antara news agency
reported yesterday.

Major General Dunidja, chief of the Trikora military region
which covers Irian Jaya, was quoted as telling reporters the
fighting between soldiers and the Free Papua Movement occurred on
Tuesday near the Papua New Guinea border.

He did not give further details.

The report did not say if there were any rebel casualties.

"The armed conflicts proved that the GPK (peace-disturbing
movement) are still in Irian Jaya, although their strength may
not be great," he said. "We call on residents along the border to
be alert and ready to safeguard themselves and their families."
(swe)