February 15, 1998 Updates

Middle Java
The troops from Kodam IV Diponegoro move quickly to secure the border area
between Middle Java, and West Java. It is reported that,at least three people were badly injured after they were shot by the soldier. These people tried to attack those soldiers
who were standing by, using axe and saber. Another report said that the riot had reached
Tegal. A number of houses and cars were burned by the mob at Tegal. The culprits were
suspected to be people from Tegal who lived in Jakarta, and were prepared for this riot.
Sixteen people were arrested. At Brebes area, riots occured at 4 "kecamatan" (districts):
Losari, Tanjung, Bulukamba, and Banjarharjo. At Tegal, they were Balapulang and Bojong. At the Tanjung districk the mob not only burned goods on the street but also
inside the stores. According to our observation, the situation was already under control
by Sunday afternoon, even though social unrests were still felt in Brebes and Tegal area.

1,125 police forces were standing by at Brebes. They are coming from the Brebes
police force, Brimob, Kodim 0713, Batalyon 405,406, adn 407. Some of the victims
are being treated at Brebes public hospital, and some local clinics. 2 people had died.

The southern part of Middle Java was paralyzed on Sunday, because of the
drivers of public transportation were on strike. The strike was on Banyumas area:
Cilacap, Banyumas, Purbalingga, and Banjarnegara. The Dalmas troop was deployed
on the border between West Java and Middle Java, especially at Majenang, Wanareja,
Cimanggu, and Sidareja. The soldiers from Batalyon 405/Wagon are also standing by.

Middle Java Province of Indonesia

South East Celebes

Tensions were also felt by people at the city of Kendari on Saturday. There was
a demonstration protesting the rise of staple foods' prices. Stones were thrown to
stores and offices, but the situation was brought under control by the security
forces. On Sunday, the situation is back to normal.

South East Celebes Province.