Grenade Attacks in Aceh: Published on 13 May 2007

There was another grenade attack last week, taking the number of grenade attacks to three. This time, it was on a spokes person of the local political party. The police have not arrested any of the culprits in all these attacks. While these attacks are a major concern, they will have little effect on ongoing peace process in Aceh.

During the peace process, the group fighting for Free Aceh (GAM) claimed to possess 840 weapons. But the Indonesian Intelligence estimated them to be much higher. Significantly, during the process they have actually surrendered a total of 1,042 weapons. But still, these sporadic incidents signify that some people still possess weapons, especially in East Aceh.

We were advised not to travel at night by vehicles, cautious near government offices military establishments etc., have multiple airborne and maritime evacuation plans, ensure all satellite phones are in working order, and so on....

But any way who cares! We all happily flaunt all those rules!!