Truce signed in Batam hostilities

BATAM, Riau: Leaders of ethnic groups involved in bloody clashes in Batam have pledged a truce, Antara reported.

Public transportation drivers from North Sumatra's Batak ethnic group and West Nusa Tenggara's Flores ethnic group were involved in fatal clashes on Wednesday which have caused at least 11 fatalities and injured dozens.

The fight descended into large-scale unrest, causing residents to flee their homes and seek refuge in nearby police stations, including in Barelang.

Witnessing the signing of Thursday's truce were the Batam Industrial Authority's chief security officer Maj. Gen. Eric Watulo and Batam's military chief Lt. Col. Yul Aviandi.

Officials said they were not sure if provocateurs were involved in fomenting the unrest, but the investigation continues.

The news agency also reported that dozens of houses in Batuaji and Sagulung villages in West Batam subdistrict were set on fire by several unidentified parties on Friday. (edt)