Marines, journalists agree to end conflict peacefully

Agus Suhartono: Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander Admiral. (Antaranews.com)

The Indonesian Military (TNI) chief, Adm. Agus Suhartono, has confirmed that the "conflict" between Marines and journalists in Padang has been peacefully resolved.

"Both parties have agreed to end the conflict peacefully. The Marines have met the journalists and asked for forgiveness, so there are no more problems," Agus told reporters on Thursday at the House of Representatives prior to a meeting with the House's Commission I overseeing defense, foreign affairs and information.

The Marines were previously reported to have assaulted six television journalists during a crackdown on a place believed to be a prostitution hotspot in Padang, West Sumatra, on Wednesday.

During the assault, the Marines forcibly seized the journalists' cameras, videotapes and memory cards.

Agus added that the Marines had not been involved in the crackdown; they had not intended to be at that location in the first place, let alone get involved in a conflict with the journalists.

"The Marines were on their way home from the Regional Representatives Council (DPRD) when they got caught up in the middle of a chaotic situation during the crackdown. It is possible that they were provoked by the situation and then acted inappropriately," Agus said.

He then promised that the TNI would obey any legal consequences that might occur due to the incident. (dic)