Molotov cocktails discovered at traditional market

Residents at a traditional market in the Tulang Bawang regency, Lampung, were startled when they discovered two Molotov cocktail explosives at a kiosk on Monday.

According to the market spokesman, the Molotovs were found hidden in a backpack at a vegetable stall in the rear area of the Pasar Unit II market.

Police suspect that the perpetrators who planted the Molotovs wanted to terrorize local officials who were planning to demolish the traditional market in hopes for a more modern one.

"The Molotov cocktails were discovered in the exact same location where a fire broke out in 2007. The bombs were deliberately placed there as a statement, far away from crowds," said Eva, a local official, as quoted by kompas.com.

Merchants and officials at the market area have often come into conflict. In February, local merchants became violent in response to plans to demolish the market. Dozens of merchants were injured. (png)