Snipers deployed for holiday season

SEMARANG: In a move to maintain security and order, provincial police here plan to deploy 250 snipers during the Christmas and Idul Fitri holiday seasons.

The sharp shooters will be posted in areas long known for their vulnerability to crime, notably the north coastal lane, where millions of holiday revelers will pass through en route to their hometowns.

"We want people to feel safe on their way home to celebrate their holidays," Central Java Police chief Maj. Gen. Nurfaizi said on Tuesday night.

A total of 14,000 police personnel will be on duty during the holiday season across Central Java.

"About 148 posts will be erected along the north and south coastal routes to anticipate traffic problems," he said.

The posts are equipped with radio communications, first aid supplies and tow trucks, he said.

He warned hometown-bound revelers to watch out for the plentiful markets along the coastal roads, which are one of the main sources of traffic congestion. (har/edt)