Three injured in Wamena rioting

Three injured in Wamena rioting

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Two civilian and one policeman were
severely injured in a clamor which broke out in the town of
Wamena, Jayawijaya regency, on Saturday.

Antara said the police officer was chief Sgt. S Tamaela, while
one of the civilians was identified as Nasrun. The identity of
the other civilian was not known.

The three are now being treated for severe wounds at the
intensive care unit of the local hospital.

The officer suffered stab wounds to his right arm, while one
of Nasrun's ears was severely cut. The other patient was injured
in the buttocks. Witnesses said an arrow hit him from behind.

The clash erupted after locals were informed that the chief of
the Papuan civilian militia (Satgas) in Wamena was shot dead by
police at the airport.

Approximately 2,500 Satgas members, with arrow, swords and
other sharp weapons entered the town of Wamena soon after hearing
the rumor. They besieged the Jayawijaya Police station.

A brawl then ensued and warning shots from the police failed
to break it up.

The mob dispersed after learning that their chief, Elyas
Babinggen, was still alive.

The situation had returned to normal by Saturday evening but
Wamena remained tense. (sur)