"We will be deployed to ensure security during the celebrations."Jayapura (ANTARA News) - Papua Police have deployed 3,793 personnel across the districts and cities in the region to ensure security during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
"We have stepped up security ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations through Operasi Lilin (Candle Operation) in the region, starting Sunday (December 23) through January 1, 2013," Papua Police spokesman Adj. Sr. Comr. I Gede Sumerta Jaya said here on Monday.
He stated that police officers would monitor the distribution of alcoholic drinks and firecrackers "because those things often lead to problems and discomfort the public".
"The Papua police chief has called on the region`s people to assist the police in maintaining security in the region, because safety and security are not solely the responsibility of the police," Sumerta pointed out.
Earlier, on December 12, the Papua police organised a joint rally at PTC Entrop yard, South Jayapura district, Jayapura city.
"The National Army (TNI), Public Order Officers (Satpol PP), Transportation Service (Dishub) and Jasa Raharja, a state-owned insurance company, will all be involved in the security operation," Sumerta noted.
"As many as 82,723 personnel, including 3,793 police officers, 15,024 TNI officials and other security agencies, as well as community members, will be deployed to ensure security during the celebrations," he said.
Papua Police chief Pol (ret.) Tito Karnavian, who acted as the rally inspector, predicted "there will be large-scale mobilization during the Christmas and New Year celebrations".
He stated that many steps would be taken during the period in anticipation of increased accidents and crimes.
Tito expressed hope that the public would cooperate with the security forces in maintaining security and peace during the celebrations.
(Uu.J010/INE/KR-BSR/B003)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
