Jakarta – Police shot four people and detained another seven following a riot that broke out in Manokwari, Irian Jaya, Monday afternoon.

During the riot a crowd set fire on the Kijang van belonging to Manokwari's regional secretary, Stevanus Rumfabe, who was driving past Fanindi area. Another Kijang van belonging to the local head of the social political affairs office was also destroyed by the crowd, Antara reported Tuesday.

The incident followed rumors that the police were planning to lower the Bintang Kejora (Morning Star) separatist flag hoisted at the house of the chief of the Manokwari tribal community, Barnabas Mandacan, located in Fanindi Dalam.

The rumors sparked anger among Free Papua Movement supporters, who blocked the road to Fanindi Dalam. The angry crowd also damaged a telephone kiosk and the house of a junior high school teacher.

The police were forced to shoot the rioters to prevent them from causing further damages. The police also detained seven men believed to be responsible for the riot.

The incident caused tension in Manokwari and all shops were closed while traffic was grounded to a standstill.