AMBON (JP): Members of the Laskar Jihad in Maluku will hand
over their self-made bombs on Sunday at about 09:00 of local time
to the Pattimura Regional Military Commander, Brig Gen. Moestofo.
Reliable sources obtained by Antara on Saturday
afternoon in Ambon said the handing over of the self-made bombs to
the military will be conducted in the Kebun Cengkeh area of Ambon,
Maluku.
Armed II battalion commander Major Broto admitted that his side
were still having negotiations with the Laskar Jihad for the
delivery of bombs and weapons.
But till now, it was difficult to know the exact number and
type of bombs which would be handed over on Sunday, he cited.
However, his side highly welcomed the plan and hoped it will be
a starting point toward lasting peace in Maluku, especially in
Ambon, the news agency reported.
According to him, the Laskar Jihad were ready to hand over
explosives after they felt satisfied with the trial of Dr Alex
Manuputty, Chairman of the Maluku Sovereignty Forum (FKM).
Furthermore, following the handing over of the weapons, Broto
said the Laskar Jihad will not be cornered just because of the
handing over of equipment to the security personnel who are
serious in maintaining the security and safety of
residentsespecially moslems.
It was also reported that after the delivery of the hundreds of
self-made bombs in Kebun Cengkeh area, there would be another
surrender of weapons in a designated area of Ambon in the future.
"Hopefully, other rival groups will follow the example of
the Jihad Legion in a bid to bring about lasting peace in the
sectarian conflict-torn city," he stressed.
