Indonesia increases security measures after Church attacks

Indonesia increases security measures after Church attacks

2010-12-08 21:08:33 GMT+7 (ICT)

JAKARTA, INDONESIA (BNO NEWS) -- Two recent attacks against churches in the Central Java province of Indonesia has prompted authorities to open investigations and step up their security measures in fear of further attacks as Christmas season begins, officials said on Wednesday.

Officials reported that, on Tuesday, two individuals hurled Molotov cocktails against the Jesus The King Catholic Church in Sukoharjo, Solo. Further reports on Wednesday revealed that another attack occurred in the same city on Sunday against the Indonesia Muria Christian Church when shots were fired against its windows.

Central Java Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General Sabar Raharjo confirmed the attacks on the churches in which over 100 people congregate.

"We are still checking so we don't know anything yet," said Central Java Police Inspector General Edward Aritonang.

Despite only causing minor damage, Iskandar Hasan, a national police spokesperson, said security measures will be increased as Christmas and New Year's could be a cause for further attacks.

"The national police chief has ordered all police personnel across the country to coordinate with churches and local administrations to take preventive measures," he said.

In addition to the attacks, two crude homemade bombs were discovered outside the Pasar Kliwon Police Precinct in Solo on Tuesday.

Indonesia is an Islam-majority country, and attacks against Christians and their places of worship are not uncommon.

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