Jakarta – The police chief of Riau province yesterday apologized to university students for a clash that erupted earlier this week when security forces resorted to violence to disperse a protest against vice.

I apologize to all people, especially to Riau students for the October 11 incident, Brigadier General Maman Supratman was quoted as saying by Antara.

Thousands of student protesters in Riau clashed with police on October 11 after the demonstrators had attacked three hotels that allegedly offered prostitution and gambling services. At 20 students had to be hospitalized after the clash and 3 were classified as being seriously wounded.

Supratman, who was appointed Riau Police chief four months ago, said he would learn from the incident and make sure that his subordinates will not repeat such acts of brutality. Im very concerned by the whole incident and I promise to take stern measures against my subordinates who violate standard procedures. I hope this was the last incident.