Students demand riot probe

MEDAN, North Sumatra: Dozens of students from the Muhammadiyah University took to the streets here on Monday demanding an investigation into alleged military violence during riots at a pulp and paper plant last week.

Students condemned the alleged use of force of military personnel in handling rioters at PT Inti Indorayon Utama (IIU).

At least 39 people were injured during clashes on Thursday between soldiers and 2,000 protesters.

They were demanding that police release 79 people detained on Monday during a clash when four people were reportedly shot by rubber bullets as troops dispersed thousands of protesters who rioted at the plant.

IIU has been the target of protests from locals and environmental watchdogs. It began operations in 1989.

An ongoing investigation has forced the suspension of the plant's operations for three months. (21)