Tension returns to Poso

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)