Indonesian Executions Lead to Violence

[Behind the Aegis]

PALU, Indonesia (AP) -- Three Christian militants were executed by firing squad Friday for leading attacks on Muslims six years ago that left at least 70 people dead, setting off fresh sectarian clashes on restive Sulawesi island, police said.

Mobs torched cars and police posts in several villages before security forces restored order, said Maj. Rudy Sufahriyadi, police chief in the town of Poso. Elsewhere they torched a prison, freeing scores of inmates, blockaded roads, and looted Muslim-owned shops and restaurants.

On the island of Flores, the executed men's birthplace, machete-wielding mobs ran through the streets, sending women and children running in panic.

"We understand that some people are disappointed and sad to hear their brothers were executed," Sufahriyadi said. "It's normal, but we will not tolerate any anarchist acts that may worsen the situation."

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