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)