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Police investigate council building fire in Gowa
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Burned down -- Smoke emanates from the Gowa Legislative Council building, which was burned down by protesters in a rally on Monday. (JP/Andi Hajramurni)
S
outh Sulawesi Police investigators have begun examining the Gowa Legislative Council building, which was burned down by angry protesters on Monday afternoon. They cordoned off the area with police tape as they collected evidence.
South Sulawesi Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Frans Barung Mangera said police officers would thoroughly investigate the incident and take tough measures against the perpetrators.
“There will be no more mediation. We will take enforce the law regarding this incident. We have obtained CCTV footage and within the next two or three days we will be able to reveal the perpetrators of this crime,” said Barung on Monday.
Three fire engines were dispatched to the location of the fire, which took place at around 1 p.m. local time.
The incident began when hundreds of people, including members of the Gowa royal family, held a rally in front of the council compound. The group demanded the Gowa Legislative Council revoke Bylaw No.5/2016, which mandates the establishment of the Gowa Customs and Traditions Institution (LAD). The rally turned violent after no council member came out to meet them.
Gowa Regent Adnan Purichta Ichsan Yasin Limpo has been inaugurated as the LAD head, who will play the role and undertake the functions of the sombaya (king) of Gowa. His inauguration drew criticism as Gowa kings have always inherited the throne through bloodlines.
Adnan’s inauguration also triggered concerns about the safety of heirlooms as he reportedly ordered the seizure of several objects under the protection of the Gowa royal family. (ebf)
