Tension returns to Poso

POSO, Central Sulawesi: An atmosphere of tension has returned to Poso after an unknown group has intercepted a number of public intercity buses either departing or entering the town over the past few days.

Several bus passengers have been attacked in the ambushes, with the latest victim being rushed to a local state hospital on Wednesday.

In their operations, the attackers have sometimes felled trees to set up roadblocks, as happened on the route connecting Poso and Palu in Masani village.

Some bus companies have suspended operations since Monday due to security concerns.

"We received reports that Poso is unsafe so we decided to stop operating our buses which ply the route," said Salim, the owner of Travel New Armada.

Poso Police deputy chief Comr. Wahyono confirmed the incidents and said that an investigation was underway.

He added that, in some areas, including Ronononcu, order had been restored thanks to the presence of a joint police and military team.

Communal clashes between Christians and Muslims devastated Poso last year, claiming hundreds of lives. (24)