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118 results found
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Indonesia
| 1 Jun 2013
2 men shot dead by security forces in Aimas, Sorong district on eve of 1 May protests marking 50th anniversary of transfer of administration of Papua to Indonesia; at least 20 protest-related arrests made. Police in Musi Rawas, S Sumatra 29 April opened fire on crowd of about 500 demonstrators, killing 4. In series of raids across Java and S Sumatra, police arrested 25 terrorism suspects, killed 8. Hundreds of Sunni Muslims laid waste to 2 Ahmadiyah mosques in Tasikmalaya, W Java 5 May; police arrested 2 ringleaders but released them after mass protests 27 May. Another mob in Tulungagung, E Java vandalised Ahmadiyah mosque 15 May; local police chief, army commander, prosecutor and ulama council subsequently forced Ahmadiyah congregation to freeze activities, close down mosque. Incumbent Bali governor won 15 May election; losing camp to challenge tight result in Constitutional Court.
Indonesia
| 1 May 2013
Lukas Enembe and Klemen Tinal inaugurated governor and vice-governor of Papua 9 April; Enembe pledged to meet with President Yudhoyono, discuss revised version of Special Autonomy statute which will focus on economic development rather than identity politics. In Aceh, GAM-controlled provincial legislature 25 March passed regulation making old rebel flag official provincial flag, setting off new tensions with Jakarta. President called for investigations after members of special forces Kopassus 23 March stormed prison cell in Yogyakarta and shot dead 4 gangsters suspected of murdering their colleague. Head of Muhammadiyah Islamic group said police abuses generating terrorism, giving boost to campaign against police counter-terrorism unit Detachment 88.
Indonesia
| 1 Apr 2013
Constitutional Court 13 March rejected 4 challenges to recent Papua governor’s election despite widespread irregularities, clearing way for highlander Lukas Enembe to be appointed governor in April. 6 killed in clashes in Timika between locals and migrant illegal miners near Freeport mine that began 15 March. Amid ongoing rivalry between police and army, around 100 soldiers burned down police station in South Sumatra 7 March, beat up policemen, in response to police killing of soldier involved in minor traffic violation. Counter-terrorism police 15 March shot dead 3 more terrorism suspects, adding to pressure to disband them. 17 men believed soldiers stormed prison in central Java, executed 4 detainees suspected of killing special forces (Kopassus) officer.
Indonesia
| 1 Mar 2013
2 attacks in Puncak, Puncak Jaya districts of Papuan highlands killed 8 soldiers, 4 civilians 21 Feb, in deadliest attack in recent years; OPM claimed responsibility. Highlander Lukas Enembe won 29 Jan Papua gubernatorial election with 52% of vote; 4 different disputes lodged at Constitutional Court amid allegations of widespread irregularities, particularly in highlands areas. President Yudhoyono 28 Jan issued new security decree widely seen as effort to enhance military’s role in internal security at expense of police. Mob 17 Feb attacked house in Dharmasraya, W Sumatra belonging to man accused of spreading Ahmadiyah teachings.
Indonesia
| 1 Feb 2013
Police early Jan killed 7 alleged terrorists in West Nusa Tenggara and South Sulawesi, adding to mounting public concern over police killings of terrorist suspects. Further political violence; unidentified men 18 Jan torched 2 cars belonging to campaign team of candidate in South Aceh district chief race. 29 Jan Papua governor’s election marred by killing of local assembly member in Tolikara. OPM claimed 10 Jan shooting of 1 soldier, 1 civilian in Puncak Jaya district.
Indonesia
| 30 Dec 2012
Series of terrorism-linked arrests: police arrested 7 terror suspects in Central and East Java during month and foiled planned attacks, while in Central Sulawesi police 12 Dec arrested alleged terrorist following clash with militants in Poso, discovered terrorist camp linked to Santoso group, 28 Dec arrested another suspect in Donggala regency. Suspected terrorist group shot dead 4 police in 20 Dec Poso attack. Poso police defused 10kg homemade bomb 25 Dec. Violence marred local election in Bangkalan, E Java, where supporters of district chief candidate Imam Buchori Cholil 10 Dec vandalised election commission office and police station after court invalidated his candidacy; security forces arrested 11, sent 3,500 troops to ensure peaceful 12 Dec polls. In Papua, angry residents in Manokwari torched 2 police posts 5 Dec after police shot dead escaped prisoner Timotius Ap. Police 15 Dec shot KNPB leader Hubert Mabel, wanted for role in 27 Nov deadly attack on Pirime police station; another police post burnt in response.
Indonesia
| 1 Dec 2012
Lampung province in Sumatra again hit by inter-ethnic violence as indigenous groups in Central Lampung attacked transmigration village inhabited by Javanese families 8 Nov; dozens of houses torched, hundreds forced to flee; district chief brokered truce 9 Nov. Terrorist attacks resumed on Sulawesi: in South Sulawesi suspected terrorist 11 Nov threw bomb that failed to explode at provincial governor Syahrul Yasin Limpo in Makassar: police arrested attacker, clashed with 2 accomplices; men suspected of links to Santoso terrorist group. In Central Sulawesi police 1 Nov arrested 4 terror suspects; 3 Nov killed community leader suspected of links with Santoso terrorist group during house raid in Poso; 7 Nov confiscated weapons and ammunitions from Islamic boarding school in Tamanjeka with suspected links to radical Islamic group Jamaah Ansharut Tauhid (JAT). Unidentified attackers in Poso 15 Nov fired at a police precinct chief in his residence. Clashes erupted 3-4 Nov between villagers in Sigi district, dozens injured, 15 houses torched. Violence broke out 19 Nov between villagers in Palu, 7 reportedly injured. In Kalimantan, police 9 Nov arrested 2 terror suspects including 1 suspected of involvement in 2009 Jakarta hotel bombings. In Aceh mob 16 Nov attacked residence of “heretical” preacher Teungku Aiyub; preacher and 2 others killed in subsequent clash. In Lanny Jaya, Papua, police precinct chief and 2 other police killed 27 Nov after unidentified assailants attacked police station.
Indonesia
| 1 Nov 2012
In Central Sulawesi, police 17 Oct found 2 police investigators dead near alleged terrorist training camp, arrested 3 suspected of involvement. Car bomb exploded in Poso early Oct, no injuries; 2 killed in bomb explosions 22 Oct; police 31 Oct killed 1 terror suspect, arrested 2, seized explosives. In Papua, police said they seized explosives allegedly held by National Committee for West Papua (KNPB) in raids in Wamena (29 Sept, 13 Oct) and Timika (19 Oct). 8 injured in clashes between KNPB protesters and police 23 Oct in Manokwari. Provincial elections commission announced Papua governor’s election to be held 29 Jan 2013. Authorities in Aceh 23 Oct closed down 9 Christian churches, 6 Buddhist temples following pressure from Islamic Defenders Front hardliners, citing lack of permits. 11 suspected terrorists with links to Salafi group and Central Java networks arrested late month for allegedly plotting attacks on foreign targets including U.S. embassy. 14 killed, 9 injured 28-30 Oct in clashes in Lampung province; over 1,500 police, 500 soldiers deployed to contain violence.
Indonesia
| 1 Oct 2012
Authorities early Sept discovered new Islamist militant group in Jakarta, with mission to attack potential targets including police stations, govt officials and Buddhists, the latter over Myanmar’s treatment of Muslim Rohingya people: 8 Sept blast injured 6 including 1 militant in Depok near Jakarta; 1 accomplice surrendered 9 Sept, 2 suspects arrested. Police 22-23 Sept arrested 10 suspected terrorists in Solo for planning attack on parliament, 1 Sept arrested member of group behind Aug attacks on police. Following Aug attacks by Sunni mob on Shiites in Madura, E Java, Shiite organisations rejected govt’s plan to relocate Shiite community to avoid further sectarian violence; Religious Affairs Minister Suryadharma Ali 6 Sept proposed Sunni-Shiite dialogue. Demonstrations against anti-Islam film 17 Sept turned violent in front of U.S. embassy; protests in Medan led U.S. to temporarily shut down consulate. In Papua police 2-3 Sept arrested some 25 Free Papua Movement (OPM) members including leader Danny Kogoya for alleged involvement in Aug 2011, May 2012 shootings.
Indonesia
| 1 Sep 2012
2 Shiites killed 26 Aug in Madura, E Java; President Yudhoyono 27 Aug called for swift action to avert future sectarian violence. 1,000-strong mob 19 Aug destroyed houses of members of minority Islamic Tarekat At Tijaniyah sect allegedly responsible for 14 Aug murder of Muslim cleric in Sukabumi, W Java; sect leader detained over murder. In Papua: policeman killed 21 Aug in Paniai, OPM claimed responsibility; 2 contractors killed 19 Aug, Deiyai; forestry official killed in Sarmi 18 Aug; kiosk owner killed in Paniai 16 Aug; govt 23 Aug promised to take “all necessary measures” to address violence, deployed extra police to Paniai. In Solo, Central Java militants allegedly linked to JAT terror group 30 Aug killed policeman; 2 suspects, 1 policeman killed, 1 suspect wounded 31 Aug.
Indonesia
| 1 Aug 2012
Unidentified gunmen 1 July killed village head in Arso Timur, Keerom, fired on army commander’s vehicle, injuring driver. Inter-ethnic violence in Mimika, Papua 25 July killed 4 tribesmen. 2 suspected terrorists arrested 12 July in Poso, Central Sulawesi. E Java Shiite leader sentenced 12 July to 2 years in prison for blasphemy.
Indonesia
| 1 Jul 2012
String of shootings in Jayapura beginning 29 May saw 3 killed, 6 wounded; police say members of W Papua National Committee (KNPB) responsible. Police 14 June killed KNPB deputy chair Mako Tabuni, claimed he resisted arrest; several other KNPB figures, including leader Buchtar Tabuni, arrested for alleged role in shootings; police 7 June killed man in Jayapura. 1 killed in Wamena after soldiers rioted following 6 June stabbing of soldier. 4 killed in ongoing clashes between tribal groups in Timika 2, 18, 20 June. Labour clashes with ethnic overtones 18 June in Batam killed 1. Former Aceh governor Irwandi Yusuf assaulted 23 June by Partai Aceh (PA) thugs while returning from installation of PA governor. PA truck fired on later that night by unknown gunmen. 2002 Bali bombing suspect Umar Patek found guilty of mass murder 21 June, sentenced to 20 years jail.
Indonesia
| 1 Jun 2012
Hardline Muslim groups 5, 9 May disrupted lectures by Canadian Muslim feminist in Jakarta, Yogyakarta; police failed to intervene. Lady Gaga cancelled planned Jakarta concert following protest by hardliners. 1 Papuan shot dead, 3 wounded by paramilitary police 15 May at gold mining site in Degeuwo, Paniai; police to launch internal investigation. Suspected Free Papua Movement (OPM) attack 17 May killed 1, injured 3 in Puncak Jaya. 55 injured in 15 May clash between Christian, Muslim groups in Ambon; 6 suspects linked to September 2011 deadly unrest in Ambon arrested 17 May.
Indonesia
| 1 May 2012
Bitterly contested local Aceh elections 9 April saw Zaini Abdullah, Partai Aceh (PA) candidate and former Free Aceh Movement (GAM) leader, elected governor, defeating incumbent Irwandi Yusuf by 56% to 29% following sporadic violence and intimidation by PA in lead-up to poll. PA member Ayah Banta arrested 14 April, accused of heading hit squad responsible for Dec, Jan election-related killings. Parliament 10 April passed controversial social conflict management bill allowing provincial, district level officials to impose limited emergency rule. 2012 legislative elections bill passed 12 April establishing 3.5% national vote threshold for parliamentary seats. Flights to Puncak Jaya, Papua, suspended after sniper 8 April fired on small aircraft killing 1 journalist, injuring 4 others. Mob 20 April attacked, vandalised minority Ahmadiyah Muslim sect mosque in West Java. 2 terror suspects 13 April arrested in Bima, 4 further arrests 17 April in West Java. Former Democrat Party treasurer Muhammad Nazaruddin convicted of corruption 20 April, jailed for 5 years.
Indonesia
| 1 Apr 2012
Indonesian counter-terrorism police 18 March killed 5 suspected terrorists in Bali allegedly planning robberies, 30 March shot dead 2 alleged terrorists in Jakarta, prompting renewed concerns over police tactics. 21 March bombing outside Indonesia Embassy in Paris reportedly intended as warning against Indonesian govt anti-terror crackdown, French fugitive militant with links to Indonesian terrorist groups suspected. Tension continued ahead of 9 April Aceh gubernatorial elections: 6 men, most Free Aceh Movement (GAM) members and Partai Aceh supporters, arrested 10 March, charged over politically-motivated murders, plot on life of current governor. Series of arson attacks in Aceh late March. 5 Papuans sentenced 16 March to 3 years in prison for role in declaration of independence at Oct 2011 Third Papuan People’s Congress. Police forcibly dispersed large-scale protests across Indonesia 27-30 March against govt fuel subsidy reductions, demonstrators 30 March attempted to storm parliament; parliament 31 March agreed to limit price increase.
Indonesia
| 1 Mar 2012
Violence continued in lead-up to 9 April Aceh elections with 5, 23 Feb attacks on supporters of gubernatorial candidate Irwandi Yusuf in East Aceh. Ahead of 17 Feb Tolikara district elections in Papua rival political supporters clashed 14-16 Feb, killing at least 6. Rival candidates in Puncak district election dispute charged with inciting violence late Feb after over 6 months of clashes between supporters. Paramilitary policeman killed 7 Feb near Freeport-McMoRan mine, bringing total killed by unidentified gunmen in area to 15 since Oct. Trial of Umar Patek, accused of involvement in 2002 Bali bombings, began 13 Feb. Supreme Court 27 Feb restored radical cleric Abu Bakar Ba’asyir’s terrorism sentence to 15 years after reduced to 9 years on appeal in Oct 2011.
Indonesia
| 1 Feb 2012
Wave of shootings in Aceh Dec-early Jan left 13 dead; some claim attempt to force postponement of elections on security grounds. Under govt pressure, Constitutional Court 17 Jan re-opened candidate registration; Aceh provincial election commission 19 Jan postponed election for 5th time to 9 Apr. In Papua, new Papuan development policy unit (UP4B) 12 Jan meeting disrupted by demonstrators rejecting Unit’s goals. Security operations continued against Free Papua Movement HQ in Eduda, Paniai. Int’l criticism followed 30 Jan court treason indictment of 5 Papuan activists who raised flag in pro-independence rally last Oct. 2 workers shot dead 9 Jan in ongoing Freeport mine violence, despite end of 3-month strike. Govt pledged to revoke mining permit after thousands rioted, 2 killed 26 Jan in Bima, Sumbawa, over feared environmental degradation.
Indonesia
| 2 Jan 2012
Situation in Papua continued to deteriorate as intensified counterinsurgency operations against local Free Papua Movement (OPM) leader John Yogi in Paniai 13-15 Dec left 17 dead, 75 homes destroyed, thousands displaced. Group with bows and arrows 1 Dec attacked policeman in Jayapura, later died of injuries. OPM suspected in 2 Dec Puncak Jaya attack which left 2 police dead; OPM also suspected in recent shootings along Freeport road. Freeport 14 Dec agreed to 39% salary increase for mine workers, ending 3-month strike. Grenade attack in Aceh 1 Dec as tensions remained high ahead of Feb elections. Communal tensions remain high in Ambon, with clashes between Muslims and Christians 13 Dec, Christian killed by Muslim mob 15 Dec. At least 2 reported killed 24 Dec as police clashed with protestors demonstrating against planned mine in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara.
Indonesia
| 1 Dec 2011
Violence continued in Papua. President Yudhoyono 9 Nov installed head of long-awaited Papua policy unit UP4B; said open to dialogue if Papuans accept republic of Indonesia, special autonomy as defined in 2001 law, and focus on accelerated development. Large pro-independence march in Jayapura 14 Nov. Continued violence along road leading to Freeport mine in Timika, with 7 deaths in 8 shooting incidents targeting soldiers, police and Freeport contractors since 14 Oct. Strike by miners entered 3rd month, amid major sabotage of mine pipeline in full view of unresponsive police. Aceh elections scheduled for 10 Nov postponed until 16 Feb 2012; Partai Aceh still planning to boycott polls. Several more members of Darul Islam faction Abu Umar group arrested 12-15 Nov, involved in smuggling arms from Mindanao. Brief flare-up of violence in Ambon, with explosion of small pipe bomb 19 Nov, and several police posts attacked 20 Nov after funeral of man reportedly tortured to death in police custody. Ongoing local disputes between palm plantations and local farmers in West Sumatra and Lampung, where 1 resident killed 10 Nov by police gunfire.
Indonesia
| 1 Nov 2011
Violence and tensions rising in Papua. Some 7,000 workers at Freeport Mine involved in strike for higher wages which began 15 Sept; 2 workers died, several injured 10 Oct in clashes with police. 3 people killed by unidentified gunmen firing at truck near mine 14 Oct, one of several ambush shootings during month. Security forces 19 Oct dispersed pro-independence “Papuan Congress III” after participants proclaimed Federation of West Papua, raising banned Morning Star flag; 300 people briefly detained, 6 charged with rebellion. Further demonstrations end-month. Increased fears of pre-election violence in Aceh after Partai Aceh early-Oct claimed it would boycott 24 Dec local elections, protesting Constitutional Court’s decision to allow independent candidates. Parliament 12 Oct passed new intelligence law denying State Intelligence Agency (BIN) power to arrest, detain, but giving agency wire-tapping authority and other powers. Jihadi leader Abu Bakar Ba’asyir’s prison sentence cut from 15 to 9 years on appeal, apparently due to his age.
Indonesia
| 1 Oct 2011
Major eruption of communal violence in Ambon, Maluku 11 Sept, sparked by death previous day of Muslim motorcyclist in Christian area, leaving 8 dead; 159 houses burned, 4,000 displaced; city remains tense. President Yudhoyono late Sept set up new unit on Papua to accelerate development, address political concerns. Mob 3 Sept stoned West Lombok district police HQ following Aug arrest of 2 people accused of torching mining facilities; police fired at protesters, killing 1. 1 killed, several injured in 25 Sept suicide bombing at church in Central Java; radical websites suggested bombing response to Ambon violence.
Indonesia
| 1 Sep 2011
Wave of violence continued in Papua: unidentified gunmen 1 Aug killed 4, including 1 soldier, in Jayapura; police initially blamed separatist OPM, later said purely criminal. OPM fighters 3-4 Aug attacked army patrol in Puncak Jaya, 1 soldier killed. Thousands took part in pro-independence demonstrations across Papua 2 Aug. Home Affairs Ministry 3 Aug called emergency meeting between Aceh governor Irwandi yusuf and Partia Aceh (former GAM rebels) to solve local election dispute; no breakthrough, parties agreed to resume talks 5 Sept. Fugitive 2002 Bali bomber Umar Patek 10 Aug extradited to Indonesia from Pakistan; to face trial on murder and terrorism charges. Banten court 15 Aug sentenced member of Ahmadiyah sect who tried to protect property from Islamist mob to 6 months in prison for incitement; 3 mob members who killed 3 Ahmadiyah earlier sentenced to 3-6 months.
Indonesia
| 1 Aug 2011
5-7 July Papua Peace Conference ended with call for internationally-mediated dialogue with govt. Spate of political violence in Papua: 17 reported killed as supporters of rival politicians clashed 31 July in Puncak; unidentified gunmen 1 Aug killed 4 in Abepura, police said suspected pro-independence OPM militants. Unidentified gunmen 21 July killed 1 soldier in Puncak Jaya. Earlier clashes between army and OPM left 6 soldiers injured in separate incidents 5, 13 July. Political tensions rose in Aceh as 2 GAM factions took opposing positions on possible elections delay; senior GAM member close to Governor Irwandi Yusuf killed by gunman 22 July. 1 killed after bomb exploded 11 July at Islamic school in Bima, Sumbawa with long-standing ties to Jemaah Islamiyah and JAT jihadi groups; police 15 July arrested school’s director, 3 others. Court 28 July sentenced 12 to 3-6 months’ prison for Feb killing of 3 members of Ahmadiyah sect; rights groups, U.S. criticized leniency of sentences. Police 11 July arrested 8 alleged Darul Islam militants for weapons smuggling. Parliament early month delayed enactment of controversial intelligence law critics say limits civil liberties. Pakistan 25 July confirmed it will extradite Umar Patek, one of 2002 Bali bombers, to Indonesia.
Indonesia
| 1 Jul 2011
JAT leader Abu Bakar Ba’asyir 16 June sentenced to 15 years in prison on terrorism charges. Police 4 June killed 2 men suspected of 25 May drive-by shooting of police in Central Sulawesi. Police 13 June arrested 6 suspected of plot to poison food at police canteens; among arrested Hari Kuncoro, suspected in 2002 Bali bombing, returned in 2009 after 6 years in Mindanao. Court 9 June jailed 17 for up to 5 months for attack on churches in Temanggung, Central Java following blasphemy verdict against ex-priest. Partai Aceh, controlled by ex-rebels, mid-month issued statement rejecting Constitutional Court (CC) ruling allowing non-party candidates to stand for election in Aceh; opens potential for conflict with govt, since CC rulings legally binding and final. Govt moved closer to establishing new unit to address social, political issues in Papua.
Indonesia
| 1 Jun 2011
Police 13 May killed 2 suspected members of small extremist group Tim Hisbah in Central Java; 1 civilian killed in crossfire. Police Apr-May arrested 16 others suspected of involvement in 15 Apr suicide attack on police station mosque. Prosecutors 9 May demanded life sentence for JAT leader Abu Bakar Ba’asyir, on trial for terrorism-related charges. In Papua, military post in Puncak Jaya attacked by unidentified gunmen 11 May, no casualties. Thousands 3 May demonstrated for independence referendum in Jayapura on anniversary of UN’s handover of Papua to Indonesia.
Indonesia
| 1 May 2011
Suicide bomber killed himself, injured 26 in 15 Apr attack on mosque inside Cirebon police station. Police 21 Apr prevented Easter terrorist attack on church outside Jakarta, suspects arrested were involved in March letter-bombs. Rights groups mid-month criticised lenient sentences in trials related to anti-Ahmadiya violence. In Papua, 2 employees of U.S. mining company Freeport killed 8 Apr by unidentified gunmen; followed non-fatal shooting incident 6 Apr.
Indonesia
| 1 Apr 2011
Series of mail bombs against individual targets from 15 March prompted calls for increased intelligence capacity; police suspect old jihadi networks. Several local govts announced bans on Ahmadiyah sect during month, increasing pressure on central govt to do same. In Papua, journalist who revealed sexual abuse by police of prison inmate stabbed in Jayapura 3 March; protesters 3 March set fire to Yahukimo district govt office. Umar Patek, suspected member of Jemaah Islamiyah behind 2002 Bali bombing, arrested in Pakistan 30 March.
Indonesia
| 1 Mar 2011
String of attacks by hardline Muslim groups on religious minorities during month: 3 members of Ahmadiyah sect killed in Cikeusik town outside Jakarta 6 Feb; in Java, mob 8 Feb burned 2 churches after Catholic writer sentenced to 5 years’ prison for blasphemy. Terrorism trial against JI leader Abu Bakar Ba’asyir started 14 Feb; Ba’asyir denied all charges. Govt 16 Feb announced new plan to boost economic growth in Papua. Partai Aceh, political party of ex-rebel group GAM, selected 2 former GAM leaders as candidates for Dec gubernatorial elections.
Indonesia
| 1 Feb 2011
3 soldiers 24 Jan jailed for 8-10 months over May torture of Papuan man; rights groups criticised lenient sentence. Soldiers 14 Jan killed 2 Papuans who tried to attack army base in Kabupaten Merauke. Papuan People’s Council (MRP) elections, scheduled for 31 Jan, likely to be delayed due to organisational problems and pro-independence groups’ resistance to MRP. Terrorism sentences against suspects linked to Aceh training camp discovered Feb 2010 continued. 7 suspects arrested 25 Jan in Central Java for planning bomb attacks against police posts and churches.
Indonesia
| 3 Jan 2011
Police 17 Dec submitted case dossier for prosecution of radical cleric Abu Bakar Ba’asyir, trial on terrorism charges expected to start Jan. Court 20, 30 Dec jailed 16 others linked to Aceh terrorist camp discovered Feb. Police 10 Dec arrested Abu Tholut, ex-head of JI special forces and one of country’s most wanted fugitives. Batak Christians 13 Dec appealed to govt for protection as hardline Muslim vigilante groups continued attacks near Bandung. String of violent incidents in Papua around 1 Dec “national day” for independence movement: police 3 Dec killed 1 of 5 escaped Abepura prison inmates, prompting riots in prison.
Indonesia
| 1 Dec 2010
4 soldiers sentenced 11 Nov to 5-7 months’ prison for “disciplinary breaches” after being found guilty of March torture of Papuan suspect; widespread outrage in Papua over lenient sentence and failure to address more extreme torture case from May. 9 arrested in Jayapura 21 Nov for raising Papuan independence flag. President Yudhoyono met local Papuan officials to discuss improving economy in 11-12 Nov visit, no mention of enhanced political autonomy or human rights issues. Violence against Ahmadiya sect in West Lombok continued: more than 100 displaced 26 Nov. More than 900 killed in tsunami in Mentawai islands and volcanic eruption in Central Java: govt criticised for slow aid response in Mentawai, concerns raised about extremist groups exploiting relief effort. U.S. President Obama visited 9-10 Nov, confirmed strategic partnership.
Indonesia
| 1 Nov 2010
Unidentified men 1 Oct burned mosque and several houses belonging to Ahmadiyah sect in Ciampea, Bogor, south of Jakarta; Minister of Religion reiterated determination to ban sect. Govt 22 Oct admitted soldiers had tortured 2 Papuan civilians after video of incident made public; 25 Oct promised full investigation, but rights groups raised concerns over impartiality. Police 5 Oct killed 1 Papuan in Wamena after supporters of Papuan Customary Council attacked police post at airport. Govt 7 Oct deployed military to N Sumatra province to assist in anti-terrorism operations, following Sept killing of 3 police by militants in region. Police 3 Oct killed 6 militants in N Sumatra province, suspected of Aug bank robbery and links to Aceh jihadi training camp. National police chief 8 Oct issued new policy allowing police to fire on “anarchic violence”, drawing protests from rights groups.
Indonesia
| 1 Oct 2010
Mounting communal tensions in several areas. In Bekasi outside Jakarta, long-running standoff between Protestants and Muslims ended in confrontation 12 Sept, with 2 church leaders injured, local leader of Islamic Defenders Front arrested for incitement with 9 others. Clash in Tarakan, E Kalimantan 26-27 Sept between 2 ethnic groups threatened to fall out along religious lines; tensions also mounting between ethnic Chinese and Muslim Malays in Singkawang, W Kalimantan. Amid rising concerns over their tactics, counter-terror police in N Sumatra 19 Sept killed 3, arrested 15 believed involved in Aug bank robbery and linked to Aceh jihadi training camp; 3 police killed by suspected militants 3 days later. 11 police investigated, later cleared for opening fire on protesters attacking precinct in Buol district, Central Sulawesi 1 Sept, killing 8, after motorcyclist involved in traffic accident with police found hanged in cell, believed to be staged suicide. In Manokwari, W Papua, 2 killed as Brimob troops fired at rioting crowd 15 Sept; 3 military units brought in to restore order, 7 Brimob men declared to have violated police procedures.
“Extremist arrested over Indonesia church attack”, AFP, 16 Sept. 2010.
Indonesia
| 1 Sep 2010
Country’s most high-profile radical cleric Abu Bakar Basyir arrested 9 Aug, accused of funding Aceh militant training camp raided by police Feb; Basyir’s 3rd arrest since 2002. In Papua, widespread anger over arrest of Baptist pastor Socrates Sofyan Yoman after he accused army of inciting violence in Puncak Jaya district. President Yudhoyono 4 Aug for first time alleged that candidates may have caused 2010 local election violence.
Indonesia
| 1 Aug 2010
Demonstrations demanding referendum on Papuan independence continued: some 2,500 in largely peaceful 8 July protest across province; protesters occupied provincial parliament in Jayapura. Papua activist Yusak Pakage, jailed for 2004 raising of Papuan independence flag, Morning Star, released from prison 8 July. National anti-graft NGO activist severely beaten in Jakarta 8 July amidst heightened media focus on police corruption; police denied responsibility, President Yudhoyono called for full investigation. Yudhoyono 16 July created by decree new National Body for Handling Terrorism reporting directly to him. 5 arrested late June in Klaten district (Java), including Jemaah Islamiyah associate Abdullah Sonata, officially named terrorist suspects by police 1 July. U.S. 23 July lifted 12-year ban on cooperation with TNI special forces unit Kopassus, originally imposed due to alleged human rights abuses.
Indonesia
| 1 Jul 2010
Papuan anger at Jakarta intensified over perceived failures in Papuan Special Autonomy. Papuan legislators demonstrated 1 June outside Jakarta Interior Ministry, after being denied meeting with interior minister Gunawan Fauzi to discuss delay in regional elections due to disagreement over Papuan regional election regulation requiring candidates to be indigenous Papuan. Papuan People’s Council held forum 9-10 June concerning Special Autonomy; culminated in 18 June estimated 2,000-person march to Papuan Legislative Assembly building to demand dialogue with Jakarta over perceived failure of Special Autonomy Law. In restive Puncak Jaya regency, separatists 14 June killed paramilitary policeman; further company of paramilitary police sent to regency next day to quell separatist attacks. 1 killed, 3 arrested in 23 June central Java anti-terror raid. Terror suspects Amir Abdillah and Mohamad Jobril sentenced 14, 29 June to 8, 5 years prison respectively for role in July 2009 hotel bombings. Former Free Aceh Movement leader Hasan di Tiro died of natural causes 3 June.
Indonesia
| 1 Jun 2010
Round up of suspected terrorists continued during month; 30 arrested, 5 killed in separate raids. Aris Susanto, aide to late militant leader Noordin Top, sentenced to 8 years on terrorism charges 31 May. Justice and Human Rights Minister Tarialis Akbar 17 May stated intention to release several Papuan political activists. Thousands demonstrated 18 May in Jayapura demanding govt implement decree requiring regional election candidates be indigenous Papuan amid continuing confusion over electoral laws. In Puncak Jaya regency, military 17 May killed suspected separatist; 21 May attack by suspected separatists on military post left 3 injured. Tribal conflict erupted in Timika 24 May. In East Java, police 21 May arrested 70 following violent protests over local electoral dispute outside Mojokerto regency assembly, 8 injured.
Indonesia
| 1 May 2010
Anti-terror operations continued: 6 arrested 11 Apr in Medan, linked to recent anti-terror actions in Aceh; 4 killed, 4 arrested in 12, 14 Apr raids in Aceh. 3 dead, over 130 injured in 14 Apr clashes in North Jakarta between public order officers (Satpol PP) and protestors trying to prevent alleged attempted demolition of religious site; hundreds of protestors 15 Apr called for review of Satpol PP. In Papua, 2 workers killed 13 Apr in Puncak Jaya, allegedly by Free Papua Movement fighters. 3 police officers injured, 25 civilians detained 15 Apr following tribal clashes in Kwamki Lama, Mimika. Police 22 Apr detained 20 West Papua National Authority demonstrators, protesting against recent Papua-Jakarta dialogue initiative, in Manokwari. Local elections in 32 districts postponed 18 Apr following disputes around Papua Customary Council decision to limit candidacy to indigenous Papuans.
Indonesia
| 1 Apr 2010
Police continued to hunt Islamic militants following Feb Aceh raid. 3 militants killed in 9 March shoot out in Tangerang, including explosives expert suspected of involvement in 2002 Bali bombings. 8 militants, 3 police, 2 civilians reported killed in clashes in Aceh during month; at least 27 arrested. In Papua, trial of KNPB pro-independence group leader Victor Yiemo for subversion began 11 March. KNPB demonstrators in Jayapura 18, 22 March called for provincial legislators to meet with U.S. President Obama during planned visit to discuss Papuan grievances; at least 15 protesters arrested. Other demonstrations held across province 22 March. Free Papua Movement (OPM) commander 15 March expressed willingness to participate in internationally-mediated dialogue with govt; army commander 24 March said Jakarta-Papua dialogue undermined national unity.
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Comment by Jim Della-Giacoma (Crisis Group), “Indonesia’s Papua: Of Roads and Road Maps”, Lowy Interpreter, 23 March 2010.
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Comment by Sidney Jones (Crisis Group), “Terrorism: What Have We Learned from Aceh?”, Tempo, 11 March 2010.
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Indonesia
| 1 Mar 2010
Police officer killed 15 Feb in Puncak Jaya, Papua; local bupati (regent) claimed killing not related to Free Papua Movement, police say otherwise; second killing in province this year after bus driver killed 27 Jan. 11 Feb murder of TV reporter followed by violent protests in Jayapura. Victor Kasiepo, spokesperson for West Papua Peoples Front, died of natural causes 31 Jan in home in Netherlands. 2 killed, 4 arrested 23 Feb during police raid on militant training camp in Aceh Besar; group’s affiliation unknown. Terrorism court hearings continued in Jakarta as Amir Abdillah, Noordin Top’s alleged driver, charged under anti-terror law, appeared in court 10 Feb. Saudi national Al Khelaiw Ali Abdullah, charged with financing July 2009 bombings, appeared in court 23 Feb. Human Rights Commission 9 Feb concluded report on investigation into 2004 death of rights activist Munir Said Thalib, stating police, prosecutors and judges performed poorly. Former head of Anti-corruption commission Antasari Azhar sentenced 11 Feb to 18 years for involvement in murder of businessman Nasrudin Zulkarnaen; 3 others also convicted.
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Indonesia
| 1 Feb 2010
Instability continued in Papua province: 3 police, 6 Freeport employees injured 24 Jan in ambush by unidentified gunmen; 3 killed as tribal groups clashed mid-month near Timika. Jeck Kemong named regional Free Papua Movement (OPM) commander 19 Jan, replacing Kelly Kwalik, killed Dec. OPM founder Nicholas Jouwe returned to Indonesia from Netherlands 12 Jan. In Aceh, Langsa city mayor 20 Jan dismissed local Sharia Police chief over rape allegations directed at 3 of his officers. Police 30 Jan announced capture of Eko Budi Wardovo, accused of May 2005 terror attack killing 22 in Poso.
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Indonesia
| 4 Jan 2010
Kelly Kwalik, leader of the armed wing of pro-independence Free Papua Movement (OPM), shot dead by police in Timika town 16 Dec during raid by counter-terror unit. Hundreds of mourners rallied in Timika 16-21 Dec, clashing briefly with police 19 Dec. Several arrested 1 Dec during rallies marking 40th anniversary of Act of Free Choice and Papua’s formal incorporation into Indonesia; banned Morning Star flag raised in various locations. Martti Ahtisaari, initiator of 2005 MoU between Aceh separatists GAM and Indonesian govt, visited Aceh 10-11 Dec to monitor peace process. Police 24 Dec arrested Baharudin Latif, father-in-law of Noordin Top, for terror-related activities.
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Indonesia
| 1 Dec 2009
Chief of anti-terror unit 19 Nov warned of risk from new terror cells, called for more power to detain suspects. Foreigners targeted in 3 shooting incidents in Aceh: head of German Red Cross delegation injured in 5 Nov attack, EU representative’s house fired at 16 Nov, and home of 2 U.S. teachers fired at 23 Nov; motives and perpetrators unknown. Govt began repatriating several hundred West Papuan refugees long resident in PNG. 5 former political prisoners 16 Nov raised banned Morning Star flag in front of Papuan provincial parliament; police quickly broke up peaceful demonstration. In separate case, 3 Papuans sentenced to 2- and 3-year jail terms for raising Morning Star in Manokwari Jan. Amnesty International 30 Nov called for investigation into human rights violations by police in Nabire district. Papuan Council chief rejected link alleged by govt between rebel leader Kelly Kwalik and recent attacks near Freeport mine.
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Indonesia
| 1 Nov 2009
President Yudhoyono inaugurated for 2nd term 20 Oct; 22 Oct cabinet announcement widely criticised for “political” choices. Police 9 Oct shot dead 2 suspected terrorists, bringing to 9 the total killed by police following July hotel bombings. Yudhoyono 30 Oct again intervened to support Corruption Eradication Commission after police detained 2 top agency officials. Sporadic violence continued in Papua as unidentified gunmen killed 1 worker, injured 3 others in 2 separate 20 Oct attacks near Freeport mine, injured soldier in 21 Oct attack. In Aceh, Legislative Council members 20 Oct agreed to review controversial Islamic criminal code after public outcry, opposition from rights groups. GAM founder Hasan di Tiro 17 Oct returned to Aceh for low-key visit.
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Indonesia
| 1 Oct 2009
Noordin Top, suspected mastermind of July hotel bombings and previous Bali, Jakarta attacks, killed 17 Sept during police raid, along with 3 other suspected terrorists; 3 arrested. Senior Muslim figures 25 Sept pledged support for govt counter-terror efforts at thousands-strong Solo rally. President Yodhoyono 16 Sept intervened to temporarily shelve controversial state secrets parliamentary bill, voiced support for beleaguered Anti-Corruption Commission. Violent incidents continued in Papua, with shots fired near Freeport mine 9, 13, 16 Sept, injuring 4. Spokesman for armed Papuan separatist group arrested on subversion charges. Indonesian Human Rights Committee NGO 2 Sept expressed concern at rising rights violations, displacement in Papua. 14 Sept passage of harsh Shari’a-influenced bylaw in Aceh caused alarm in Jakarta; implementation appears unlikely after Home Minister 16 Sept called for review.
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Indonesia
| 1 Sep 2009
Investigations into 17 July Jakarta hotel bombings continued; authorities 12 Aug confirmed principal suspect Noordin Top still at large despite initial claims he was among 4 suspects killed in police raids 8 Aug. Raids also uncovered assassination plot against President Yudhoyono. 3 arrested 19, 25 Aug, charged with helping finance July bombings. Constitutional Court 12 Aug rejected challenges by the 2 losing candidates questioning fairness of 8 July presidential election, finding no evidence of systematic electoral fraud; President Yuhoyono claimed victory 20 Aug. 2 further shooting incidents took place near Freeport mine in Papua with gunmen firing on employee buses; no injuries reported.
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Indonesia
| 1 Aug 2009
Suicide bomb blasts ripped through 2 luxury hotels in Jakarta 17 July, killing 9 and wounding dozens; another unexploded bomb later found at Marriot hotel. Splinter group of Jemaah Islamiyah led by fugitive Noordin Top suspected, in first such attacks in 4 years. Violence flared in Papua with string of attacks on Freeport’s Grasberg mine: Australian Freeport worker shot dead 11 July; mine guard and 1 police killed, 5 injured in shoot-out 12 July. Followed 8 July arson attacks on Freeport bus and security post. 3 more wounded by gunfire 22 July. 15 detained following attacks, including 2 Freeport workers; anti-terror police deployed to province. Following 8 July presidential elections, final result confirmed 24 July with incumbent Yudhoyono winning 60% of vote, 28 of 33 provinces. Losing candidates complained of violations, mounted legal challenge; claim that if vote were fair, Yudhoyono would not have won first round.
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Indonesia
| 1 Jul 2009
Campaigning for 8 July first round presidential election began 11 June; incumbent Yudhoyono continues lead in polls. Tensions with Malaysia rose, focussed on disputed Ambalat oil-rich territorial waters. Both sides accusing other of trespass; govt 10 June offered joint patrols in disputed waters, 20 June proposed July resumption of talks. Localised violent incidents continued in Papua. At least 3 killed after anti-terror police stormed isolated airstrip in Mamberamo 7 June, occupied since May by some 150 gunmen linked to Papua Free Movement. Army reported leaders were former army (TNI) deserters. Reports of further minor clashes in Central Highlands, including 24 June attack on convoy of police officers leaving 1 dead. Counter-terrorist police 21 June arrested 2 men on suspicion of terrorism.
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Indonesia
| 1 Jun 2009
Official election results 9 May confirmed President Yudhoyono’s Democratic Party in 1st place with 21% of vote. Yudhoyono ahead in opinion polls, 15 May chose central bank governor Boediono as running mate for 8 July presidential elections. Other 2 presidential candidates are VP Jusuf Kalla, leader of Golkar, and former president Megawati Sukarnoputri, leader of PDIP – both parties won around 14% of Apr vote. Partai Aceh announced as official winners of 9 Apr election for Aceh Legislative Council; secured 33 out of 69 seats. Constitutional Court investigating 53 allegations of election violations in Aceh. Police in Papua 15 May announced increased security measures ahead of elections.
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Indonesia
| 1 May 2009
9 Apr parliamentary elections saw President Yudhoyono ‘s Democratic Party emerge largest in parliament, tripling vote from 2004 election, placing him in strong position for July presidential elections. Election overshadowed by Central Electoral Commission’s poor performance, including outdated voter registry. Free Aceh Movement’s Partai Aceh (PA) emerged dominant for Aceh provincial legislative. 6 arrested early Apr for crimes including pre-election killings of PA members. Pre-election violence mostly restricted to Aceh, with 4 Apr murder of PA official. Papua saw string of violent incidents around election day, with at least 7 killed, dozens wounded in suspected rebel attacks; U.S. Sec State Clinton 22 Apr said govt needs to allow “degree of autonomy” in Papua.
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