mass arrests

Mass arrests in West Papua ahead of demos

RNZI reports demonstrations have been planned for today in most of the region's urban centres as West Papuans mark by protest the anniversary of transferal of administration in the former Dutch New Guinea to Indonesia in 1963.

Dozens of West Papuans were arrested in Papuan cities such as Jayapura and Merauke for organising demonstrations which were expected to take place today.