W. Java police to patrol in force

CIREBON, West Java: West Java Police will be out in force for the Christmas and Idul Fitri holidays with some 11,000 personnel, or about two-thirds of the West Java police force, on duty.

The police operation for the Christmas and end of year holiday season is traditionally called Operation Lilin (Candle Operation), while for Idul Fitri it is Operation Ketupat.

West Java police chief Maj. Gen. Chaeruddin Ismail said here yesterday that at least two-thirds of the 17,000 personnel under his command would be assigned.

"This year is a bit different because the two operations will be held in succession," he said as quoted by Antara. "At least two-thirds of the force will be deployed, and we could even have the whole force if necessary."

The Moslem Idul Fitri celebration is expected to fall on Jan. 30.

The annual police operations focus on ensuring the smooth flow of traffic during the seasonal exodus which usually accompanies the holiday period.