Two dead in Aceh shooting

BANDA ACEH, Aceh: Two refugees were killed and at least six others, including two policemen, injured when security forces and alleged rebels exchanged fire at a refugee camp in Jabo Dalem, Pintu Rimba village, Trumon, South Aceh.

The gunfight erupted on Sunday afternoon after a group of gunmen ambushed a joint patrol made up of police and military personnel which was passing through Pintu Rimba village.

"Two Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officers, Sgt. Maj. Ahmad Yani, 35, and Sgt. Rosmanto, 26, were shot in the arm while the attackers ran into the refugee camp," South Aceh Police chief Asst. Supt. Suprijadi Djalal said on Monday.

The soldiers then chased the assailants into the camp where another gunfight ensued.

Two refugees were killed in the crossfire. They were identified as Faridah, 20, and Kamisan, 35. Another four refugees were wounded.

"It's a shame that those gunmen used refugees as their shield. We really regret this," officer Suprijadi said.

Since the humanitarian pause took effect on June 2, at least 60 people have been killed, 10 of whom were members of the security forces. (50/edt)