Strong quake jolts Morotai

Strong quake jolts Morotai

AMBON, Maluku: An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale shook the northern regency of Morotai on Thursday, an official said yesterday.

Chief of the local meteorologic and geophysics office, Hendry Subakti, said that the government had not yet obtained detailed information regarding possible casualties and damage due to poor communication.

The quake occurred at 11.18 a.m. local time, Antara reported.

Hendry called on local people, especially fishermen, to remain alert to the danger of aftershocks that could cause lethal tidal waves in the quake area.

He said another powerful tremor had also jolted Piru District in Central Maluku on Wednesday but that there nad been no reports of casualties. (rms)