Indonesia beefs up security before holidays

December 23, 2011

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JAKARTA, Indonesia -- Some 83,000 security personnel will be deployed across Indonesia in an initiative called "Candle Operation 2011" aimed at ensuring safety in the country during the holidays.

General Timur Pradopo, the country’s police chief, told The Jakarta Globe the operation will launch Friday (December 23rd) and run into January. It will include security details from police, military and government agencies.

Jakarta Police Chief Insp. Gen. Untung S. Rajab told the Globe the possibility of terrorist attacks exists, but there are no known threats at the moment. Police are also calling on the public to help ensure a safe holiday season.

"Public participation is essential in order that New Year's Day could take place peacefully and smoothly," Rokan Ilir regency police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Adang Suherman told the Jakarta Post.

The Islam Defenders Front (FPI) said it is also prepared to help police secure places of worship, Chairman Habib Rizieq told Antara News.

Muslims are forbidden from disturbing members of any other faith while performing religious ceremonies under the right to worship freely, the chairman said.

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