Troops guard steel company

CILEGON, West Java: Dozens of military and police personnel patrolled the compound of state steel company PT Krakatau Steel here over the weekend, following a mob attack on Wednesday.

Antara reported that hundreds of local residents were seen scavenging iron scraps, but were prevented from entering the factory.

No clashes were reported.

A mob went on the rampage on Wednesday after a military officer shot dead a 13-year-old boy, identified as Faisal, for allegedly stealing iron bars. Faisal, a resident of Ciwandan village, died from wounds to the head.

The officer, Second Lt. Deni, Kusdani said he just fired a warning shot.

The villagers ransacked six security posts inside the compound and set on fire a patrol car driven by Deni.

Chief of Ciwandan Police subprecinct First Lt. Supangkat suggested the steel company employ local residents to avoid fresh incidents. (amd)