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Armed police guard Ahok campaign
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Stay firm – Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama (center) and Djarot Saiful Hidayat (behind) arrive at the Jakarta International Expo, Kemayoran, Jakarta, on Oct.25, to take their official number for the 2017 Jakarta gubernatorial election. Hundreds of police officers secured a campaign venue to be used by Ahok in North Kedoya, West Jakarta, on Thursday, (Antara/Akbar Nugroho Gumay)
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ore than 100 police officers guarded a campaign venue that was to be used by non-active Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama in North Kedoya, West Jakarta, on Thursday.
Riot police armed with rifles lined up for 150 meters to secure the area, kompas.com reported. Each of the officers was equipped with 10 teargas canisters.
Soldiers were behind the riot police. Several policewomen wearing hijab were also deployed.
A barracuda armored police car and a water cannon were parked on an empty plot of land in the area.
Police officers were seen directing traffic in the area as many residents stopped to watch the scene.
The deployment of so many police officers in full riot gear is believed to have been in reaction to some groups rejecting the presence of the governor to campaign for February’s gubernatorial election in the area.
Ahok’s deputy and running mate, Djarot Saiful Hidayat, who was met with rejection by residents during his last campaign event, said he would report the protestors to the Jakarta Elections Supervisory Agency.
Thousands of Muslims staged a rally in front of the State Palace on Friday. Some of the demonstrators shouted: “Arrest Ahok, Kill Ahok!”
The rally ended in violence and two police cars were set on fire. (jun)
