Lombok clashes 'under control'

The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Tue, 10/10/2006 10:18 AM

MATARAM, West Nusa Tenggara: Violence that erupted when airport officials attempted to destroy farmers' crops in a land dispute in Tanak Awu, Central Lombok, is ""under control"", police say.

Central Lombok Police head Adj. Sr. Comr. Ruslan said Monday ""small clashes"" occurred after state airport company Angkasa Pura employees were prevented by local residents from bulldozing their crops.

The residents oppose the airport construction in the area, which they have traditionally farmed.

Ruslan said news about the standoff was received by a group of people that ""strongly supported"" the construction of the airport. That group later attacked the villagers, he said.

A number of village houses were damaged during the clashes, he said, however, the land has not been bulldozed.

Human rights groups have accused airport management, regional officials and local security forces of carrying out a concerted campaign of violence and intimidation against farmers in the area.

Thirty seven farmers were shot and wounded by police in August last year during a demonstration opposing the airport.

Ruslan said Monday the clashes were sparked by a ""trivial misunderstanding"". No one was hurt, he said.

""The situation is relatively under control and our subordinates are still on guard there,"" Ruslan said. -- JP

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