§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has received concerning attacks by Jihad warriors on the village of Duma, North Moluccas and on the number of casualties which resulted. [128856]
§ Mr. BattleWe understand that between 100 and 158 people were killed and over 200 injured in the raid on the village of Duma on 19 June. The media reported that large numbers of armed extremists attacked the village, shooting at random and burning over 300 homes. The Regional Military Commander subsequently ordered the security forces to secure the area. On 26 June, President Wahid declared a state of civil emergency in Maluku; since then the situation appears to be calmer.