Soldier held for lending grenades to three civilians

JAKARTA (JP): Jakarta Military Commander Maj. Gen. Sutiyoso said yesterday the military police had arrested a soldier for "lending" grenades to civilians.

Sutiyoso said the military police were still interrogating the first soldier of the ammunition department. But he refused to name the suspect.

"So far, the suspect has admitted to having "lent" the grenades to three civilians for catching fish. However, he is guilty and will be prosecuted according to the Military Law," he said after attending the inauguration of security officers for the coming general election at the Senayan eastern parking lot, Central Jakarta.

Police have detained three civilians, Abdul Azis Umar, 31, Saleh Abdullah, 37, and David bin Poniman, 32 for possession of the three grenades.

Sutiyoso said the police were still looking for four more grenades, but did not say how he knew how many to look for.

He said more grenades had been lent to civilians by members of the Armed Forces.

Abdul Azis Umar's brother, Najib Umar went to the Foundation of the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI)'s office Thursday for help. Lawyers Adnan Buyung Nasution and Bambang Widjojanto, will represent the two brothers in the grenade case.

Back up

Armed Forces Chief Gen. Feisal Tanjung yesterday inaugurated a security unit formed as a back up for police officers securing the capital during the general election, scheduled for May 29.

The security unit consists of 10,000 members of the Armed Forces and neighborhood security staff.

The Strategic Army Reserve commander, Lt. Gen. Wiranto, City Police Chief Maj. Gen. Hamami Nata and Governor Surjadi Soedirdja also attended the ceremony.

Sutiyoso also briefed reporters about the Alert Centers, which began operating at five city mayoralties Monday.

The centers will become permanent if the military decide they successfully prevent violence and riots.

"We have received about 60 reports from people about many things since we announced the 122 phone number and 122 PO Box. I appreciate the people's help," he said.

He said the center was staffed by personnel from the military district, police precinct and leaders of the community. The center is headed by the Military District Chief. (jun)