Maluku Police Deploy Personnel to Secure Conflict Areas in Ambon

The Governor of Maluku together with the Maluku Regional Police Chief and Kasdam Pattimura took quick steps to calm the heated situation in Arbes Ambon (Antara

Ambon - The Maluku Regional Police (Polda) has deployed as many as 300 joint personnel to secure the Arbes area in Ambon City, following the re-occurrence of clashes between youth groups in the area.

The Deputy Chief of the Maluku Regional Police, Brigjen Pol Imam Thobroni in Ambon, Saturday said the deployment of personnel was aimed at maintaining security stability and preventing the spread of conflict in the region.

"Our personnel are on standby at a number of strategic points to ensure that the situation remains safe and conducive, as well as providing a sense of security to the community," he said.

The personnel were demoted because the clash between the youth groups resulted in at least 10 people being injured by arrows, sharp weapons, and blunt objects. All victims are currently undergoing treatment at a number of hospitals in Ambon City and it is confirmed that there are no casualties.

In relation to this, he explained that the police were still intensively investigating the incident. So far, around 20 to 30 witnesses have been questioned, while the process of collecting evidence is still ongoing.

"The determination of a suspect must be supported by at least two valid pieces of evidence. We work carefully so that there is no mistake in law enforcement," he said.

The Regional Police Chief emphasized that the police would carry out raids in public spaces against residents who were caught carrying sharp weapons.

"If it is found to be carrying sharp weapons in public places, we will take firm action. For the time being, the raids are focused on public spaces, not on houses," he explained.

In addition to the enforcement steps, his party has held a coordination meeting involving related elements and also discussed long-term prevention efforts. Among them are plans to establish a permanent police post in the Arbes-UIN AMSA area, which is categorized as a conflict-prone area, as well as the installation of neighborhood surveillance cameras (CCTV) by the government together with the community.

Meanwhile, the TNI through the ranks of Kodam XV/Pattimura stated its readiness to assist the National Police if necessary to maintain order and security in the Maluku region.