Jayapura, Papua (Antara Bali) -- The security officers who were on duty when the Tolikara incident occurred had fired shots in line with procedures, according to Home Affairs Minister Tjahjo Kumolo.
The incident had taken place in Karubaga district in Tolikara, Papua province, on Friday, July 17, morning.
"The shots were fired towards the ground in accordance with procedures. However, as there were too many people involved in the attack, they were hit by stray bullets," Kumolo explained after his visit to Karubaga district in Tolikara, Papua, on Tuesday.
The minister also pointed out that the officers had resorted to shooting to stop the civilians from pelting stones at the Muslims performing Eid prayers. They disbanded immediately and fled to hide behind the sub-district military command office.
Moreover, security forces, including the police, are already in possession of the video recording that captured the incident, he affirmed.
As a result of the shots fired solely to disperse the crowd instigating the attack, 11 people were wounded in their feet. However, a man was killed as he was shot in his abdomen.
According to Kumolo, following a meeting with Regent Tolikara Usman Wanimbo, it was agreed upon that the local government will bear all the medical expenses of the victims, who will be treated in Jayapura, Wamena and Karubaga.
"I have also asked the police to find the perpetrators, including the mastermind behind the incident, and complete all legal procedures involving them," he remarked.
Furthermore, conditions in Karubaga district are now relatively safe, and regular activities have resumed.
In addition, the Tolikara district government has vowed to rebuild the kiosks of the victims in relocated areas. They will be moved to the former regent's office, the minister stated. (WDY)
