Stoned train

Stoned train

From Media Indonesia

I assumed it would be convenient to take an Argo Bromo or
Sembrani train. On Oct. 5, I traveled by Sembrani train from
Jakarta to Surabaya, East Java, at 5:40 p.m..

I really looked forward to a good rest on the train after
having had a few restless nights. I found the journey from
Jakarta to Cirebon fairly comfortable, but when the train left
Cirebon I was shocked over what happened. Our train was stoned
from left and right, virtually breaking all the windows. The rain
of stones went on until the train neared Pekalongan station. The
passengers moved away from the window for fear of being hit by
stray stones. The stone-throwing did not stop at Pekalongan, but
went on even when the train neared Semarang.

It all started when the fans of Mitra soccer team threw stones
at the houses on both sides of the railway track on their way
from Surabaya to Jakarta. But why should innocent passengers
become victims of the resident's vengefulness? The passengers
were residents of Surabaya and had nothing to do with the stone
throwers. All passengers had to protect their heads with pillows
rented from the train's crew.

Considering this situation, I wonder whether a team should
take its fans along to matches. Who is responsible for the
incident, the governor, mayor or village chief?

H. SOEHARTO

Surabaya, East Java