The Indonesian navy Wednesday deployed the first in a series of floating security posts to prevent attacks on shipping around the riot-torn island of Ambon, navy leaders said.
A confiscated Thai fishing boat was anchored by the navy in Marthafons Bay, near Ambon city, according to Eastern Fleet security chief, First Admiral Sutarto (eds: one name).
"Today (Wednesday) only one post has been deployed of the six planned floating posts and nine posts on the shores," Sutarto said, according to the Antara news agency.
The first post overlooks a busy sea-lane used by the speedboats that provide vital transportation links to Ambon city, where conflicts have cut off land routes.
Sutarto said the floating posts, in addition to shore stations, would each be manned around the clock by at least 10 marines.
He said subsequent posts would be deployed in all major shipping lanes connecting Ambon to other Maluku islands. Increased marine patrols would also provide extra back up.
Boats connecting the islands have been the target of mid-sea attacks by other vessels or sniper fire from the shores.
The Maluku islands, previously known as the Spice Islands, have been torn apart by almost two years of Muslim-Christian conflict.
More than 4,000 people of both faiths have been killed in clashes.
In June, Jakarta imposed a state of civil emergency in the Malukus, allowing the islands' governor to declare certain areas closed or under isolation. So far the move has failed to curb the violence.
The conflict has created more than half a million refugees, many of whom have fled to other islands and provinces -- JAKARTA (AFP)
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