Uneasy calm after looting of plantation

CILACAP, Central Java: The village of Cipari in Cilacap regency remained tense on Thursday following an overnight melee in which hundreds of people ran amok and looted PT Ciseru rubber plantation.

Dozens of people were hurt and at least two cars burned.

The violence began after negotiations broke down on Tuesday between representatives of the company and residents over ownership of the rubber plantation.

Villagers rioted after their demand to be recognized as owners of the land where the plantation is located was rejected.

They were previously allowed to work on the land but now demand the land be turned over to them.

As of Thursday afternoon dozens of villagers were still spotted at the plantation site, brandishing sharp weapons and cutting down rubber trees.

"Tension is running high in the area. They want the plantation plot to be transferred to them, even though legally the land belongs to the company," said Cilacap Police chief Lt. Col. Bambang Sudarisman.

Two platoons of riot police were deployed to secure the area.

Cilacap Regent Hery Tabry urged residents to end the violence and use restraint.

"Let's settle the matter peacefully and avoid any provocation which can lead to greater unrest," he said. (har/edt)