03 May 2020 | 11:26 AM UTC
Indonesia: Workers’ demonstration in North Maluku province leads to eight arrests May 1
Eight people arrested in relation to workers’ demonstration in Weda (North Maluku province) amid COVID-19 pandemic; further unrest possible in the near term
Event
Police have arrested eight people in relation to a workers' demonstrations staged in Weda (Central Halmahera Regency; North Maluku province) on Friday, May 1. The demonstration took place at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park and reports indicate that the demonstration turned unrestful, with some participants damaging company property and looting food items. Those taking part were demanding better protection and fairer treatment amid coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdown measures.
Additional demonstrations are possible in the near term.
Advice
Individuals in Weda are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
