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No.199/HMS/XII/01 Press ReleaseRECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE TOWN OF POSO, The Government of Indonesia is taking resolute measures to restore security and normalcy to the situation in the town of Poso located in Central Sulawesi. Police and other security personnel were immediately dispatched to the area and charged with the task of bringing order and thereby, ensured an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. This was deemed necessary as since last October/November 2001, certain elements instigated an outbreak of violence that took a number of innocent lives while destroying homes and other properties. Furthermore, such criminal activities incited fear among the local population causing them to flee to rural areas. In dealing effectively with this incident, the Indonesian Government will implement action in three main areas, namely, the restoration of security through disarmament of rival groups (first by persuasive means and if necessary by force), the enforcement of the law together with social rehabilitation, and promoting reconciliation among the local population. These efforts shall take place under the Chairmanship of the Coordinating Minister for the People’s Welfare, Mr. Yusuf Kalla. At this crucial time, the Government shall closely monitor the flow of visitors to the town to ensure that their presence do not negatively impact on the issue of security while individuals from outside the area are to be sent home based on proof of residence and in accordance with legal procedures. Meanwhile, the Government will accommodate the requests of local and community leaders to play an active role to assist in bringing back the situation to normalcy. The current situation has already shown signs of improvement due to the reconciliatory and social rehabilitation efforts of local leaders in handling the problem internally and in a manner consistent with their local traditions and customs.
New York, 13 December 2001
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