On Deadly Ground
Death comes quick in Aceh. People are sacrificed in frequent clashes between the Free Aceh Movement, better known as GAM, and the Indonesian Military, the TNI. Old feuds are also being settled under the guise of politics. Those who fall don't always carry weapons with civilians thrust into the front line. Some flee and the rest 'battle' for survival at home.
May 28, 2001
But Hotel Riza, where TEMPO is staying, is not completely safe either. Located in the center of Sigli, the capital of Pidie, the hotel is at the meeting point of three major roads from Banda Aceh, Bireun and Lhokseumawe. Police officers keep watch near the hotel. But the police, or indeed the presence of any other security forces in Aceh, are no guarantee of safety. The conflict between GAM—who want Aceh to be independ...