Suwarjono, Jakarta – An action by workers against the promulgation of a new labour law at the national parliament in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, ended in a clash. The demonstrators who tried to break down the gates, were repelled by water cannon.

Scores secruity personel then chased hundreds of workers from the Committee Against Workers' Oppression (Komite Anti Penindasan Buruh, KAPB) until workers dispersed. Workers saved themselves by runing towards the Manggala Wanabhakti building, at the Department of Forestry – which is located next to the parliament – and they

Unfortunately two workers who's identify is unknown were arrested by police. Showing no pity, they were beaten repeatedly. Two of them were seen to suffer serious wounds and were bleeding from the head.

Aside from the two workers, a child of a street trader based in front of the parliament, Abrar Fauzi (12) also fell victim to the anger of security forces. Abrar was also wounded seriously and is now being treated in an ambulance in front of the parliament.

As of filing this story around 3pm, the workers had been cleared from the parliament. However remnants of the action such as banners and posters were scattered in front of the parliament building. The police had also fixed the gate which had been almost destroyed by the workers.

Meanwhile, around five units from a company of SSK riding five trucks were still guarding the front gate and grounds of the parliament.

[Translated by James Balowski.]