AFP news agency reported that thousands ofprotesters took to the streets of Manokwari, the capital city of West Papuaprovince, bringing the city of some 130,000 to a standstill.
Some demonstrators also set fire to shops andvehicles, knocked down street signs, and threw rocks at governmentbuildings.
West Papua deputy governor Mohamad Lakotaniconfirmed that the parliament building had been set on fire, while downtown,markets, the port and shops were all affected. All activities were basicallyparalysed.
Three police officers were injured byrock-throwing protesters, but it was not immediately clear if any demonstratorswere injured. Authorities closed local schools for the day, according to AFP.-VNA