Antara - The Indonesian National News Agency.

INDONESIA: EAST TIMORESE MOVED FROM TRANSMIGRATION SITES TO REFUGEE CAMPS

Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, Jan 3 (ANTARA) - East Timorese refugees who have taken refuge in transmigration sites in Poto and Sulamu villages in Fatuleu subdistrict, Kupang district have been moved to refugee camps in Noelbaki and Tuapukan villages here.

The evacuation was held following a clash between the refugees and locals last Dec 27 during which the refugees torched 159 houses, Kupang district head, IA Medah, said here Wednesday.

The evacuation was carried out at the request of the refugees, he said.

"We have sent 15 trucks to the transmigration areas to evacuate the refugees and prevent more clashes," Medah said.

The fire started following a clash between a local man and an East Timorese man, he said, adding that the clash caused about Rp 5 billion in losses.

The local administration has sent 3.5 tons of rice as well as instant noodles for people who have lost their homes.

"Those who have lost their homes had fled to the forests after the clash but have taken refuge in their relatives' houses," Medah said.

At least 176 East Timorese families were transferred to Fatuleu subdistrict in line with the government plan to close down refugee camps in East Nusa Tenggara province.

The East Timorese refugees fled to East Nusa Tenggara, which shares a land border with East Timor, due to the rampage that followed the overwhelming vote for independence in the territory in 1999.

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