Farouk Arnaz – Four civilians were killed and 15 members of the police's Mobile Brigade (Brimob) were injured after a demonstration in South Sumatra in favor of the creation of a new district, North Musi Rawas, turned violent, a police officer said on Tuesday.

"A clash erupted, even though the demands of the mob were accommodated. They have been blocking the road since Monday at 10 a.m.," South Sumatra Police spokesman Adj. Sr. Comr. R. Djarod Padakova told the Jakarta Globe on Tuesday.

"Their demand that a new district be formed was obliged by the police chief. He conducted a discussion at the local councillor office and agreed to send a letter to the governor and the home affairs minister [regarding the issue]."

Despite this, a mob of a thousand people blocked the Trans-Sumatra Highway Monday morning, paralyzing transport in the area. At 9:30 p.m. Monday, police officers attempted to dissolve the mob, but the mob reacted violently. The crowd proceeded to burn two patrol cars and set the Rupit police office ablaze.

Djarod noted that law enforcers acted in accordance with police regulations while dealing with the protesters. "Warning shots were fired, but the situation quickly turned chaotic. People were throwing things, and some residents even brought sharp weapons."

Tribunnews.com reported that besides the four civilian casualties, five residents suffered from gunshot wounds. "We are still investigating the cause of death of the victims," Djarod said. "There are still some mobs of people gathered at some points, and we are currently monitoring them."

As of Tuesday, protesters are still carrying out a roadblock, and they stated that they would continue to obstruct access to the road until someone claims responsibility for the deaths.