W. Java police to patrol in force

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.