Trial may trigger further unrest

PALU, Central Sulawesi: The police have suggested that the trial of the alleged instigator of the December rioting in Poso be held out of town in order to prevent further unrest.

Maj. Widiantono, the deputy chief of the Poso police precinct, said on Wednesday the court sessions may draw large numbers of spectators. It would therefore be better if the trial was held in Palu, some five hours car ride from Poso, he said.

The rioting, which originated from a gang war, caused Rp 7 billion in losses, injured more than 100 people and left 81 houses burned and damaged.

The court would present Herman Parimo as the sole defendant. (01)