Indonesian Military Adds Two Thousand Personnel To Guard Natuna Waters

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - The Indonesian military will deploy two thousand personnel to guard the waters of Natuna, Riau Islands, according to Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu.

"The number of military personnel will be increased," Ryacudu noted here on Wednesday.

The military personnel will comprise the Air Force's Special Forces (Paskhas), the Indonesian Marine Corps, and the Army's Raiders.

"Natuna will be protected by one company of the Paskhas along with two companies of the Marine Corps and Army's Raiders," he remarked.

In addition, security in the border areas in Merauke, Maluku, and Tarakan, among others, will be strengthened in terms of the primary weaponry defense system (Alutsista) and military personnel.

 Meanwhile, the defense ministry will give a briefing to the community in Natuna on defending the country.

 As a result, the people will love and defend their country.

 "This is a border area. The people should be made aware on how to defend the country. They should be trained," he emphasized.

 Bukit Barisan Military Commander Major General Lodewyk Pusung stated that Natuna, as the northernmost island of Indonesia, should be secured with the deployment of additional troops and defense equipment.

 "Natuna is only guarded by two companies of the Army's Raiders comprising 270 personnel," he added. (WDY)