M. Azis Tunny, Ambon – A soldier and two police officers were killed and six others injured in a clash between military and police personnel in Masohi, Central Maluku, on Saturday.

Second Pvt. Raimond Philips Tube of the 731 Infantry Battalion in Karabessy as well as 2nd Brig. Michael Wattimena and 2nd Brig. Musri Siolimbona from the Central Maluku police precinct were killed when a group of soldiers from the infantry battalion launched an attack on police officers and property.

The soldiers burnt down the police headquarters, the residence of the police chief and 55 police housing units. There was no detailed information available late Saturday on the condition of the injured victims or their identities.

Witnesses in Masoho said they saw a large number of soldiers walk toward the police headquarters and open fire. They said they also saw burning tires thrown toward the barracks and several burnt police cars.

The soldiers also opened fire at a nearby traditional market, leaving traders and shoppers in a state of fear and confusion, according to the witnesses, who asked to remain anonymous.

Sources at the Masohi military and police headquarters said the clash was triggered by the alleged kidnapping of 2nd Pvt. Eko by police officers. The soldier was said to have been caught with a police officer's sister on Jan. 30.

They said Eko and the police officer, who has not been identified, were involved in a heated argument, after which Eko was reported missing. Eko's colleagues accused the police of abducting him.

Maj. Gen. Rasyid Qurnein, the commander of the Pattimura Military Command overseeing security in Maluku and North Maluku, said he regretted the incident. He said the clash was unnecessary as Eko and the police officer had solved their dispute amicably.

The chief of the Central Maluku police precinct, Adj. Sr. Comr. Prayogo, said police officers did not abduct Eko. "There was no abduction. I have checked the facts with my subordinates and the rumor is not true," he said.

Maluku Governor Karl Albert Ralahalu called on local military and police leaders to wisely and fairly settle the incident.

"While the investigation is underway, both institutions should conduct internal investigations and educate their personnel so as similar incidents can be avoided in the future. However, the law must be enforced in this case and those found guilty will be brought to justice," he said.