CRIMINOLOGIST SUPPORTS ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONAL ANTI-TERRORISM BODY

Denpasar, Nov 1 (ANTARA) - A noted criminologist from state University of Indonesia expressed support here on Saturday for the government's plan to form a national anti-terrorism body to synergize terrorism handling in Indonesia.

"This is big progress. However, it is still being considered whether it will be formed into a committee or a division at a preventive level. So far the concept of strategy is still unclear," Adrianus Meliala said to ANTARA while attending a workshop on terrorism prevention.

Adrianus said the body would function more like an intelligence analyst specializing on terrorism. It also involves analysis, intelligence and combat but will not only be a special detachment but it also has a military unit with special characteristics, he said.

"Like in the air force we have 'Paskhas' (special unit), in the navy, the marines unit, and in the army 'Kopassus'. So it is hoped its movement will be more harmonious," he said.

He said it could also involve units such as units of biology, chemistry, database and forensic.

"With the presence of the institution it is hoped there will be a synergy. So far they operate by themselves," he said.

He said the role of anti-terror Densus 88 unit was not belittled but the unit would be part of its combat group. Its role is not reduced but along with the army it would carry out combat operations based upon their expertise.

Adrianus admitted that most of the anti-terror role had been played by Densus 88 from the police.

He said if the anti-terror body would finally be established it was suggested that three divisions would be set up in it namely combat, intelligence and support divisions in addition to, if deemed necessary, a deradicalization division.

Adrianus said that it was all still under discussion and there was no need to hurry for it.

"If it is being rushed it is feared it have political consequences. Besides cost also needs to be put into consideration. If the concept is really mature only then will we urge for its development," he said.

Adrianus said he agreed with the idea because terrorism handling so far had been carried out without concept and upon irregular basis.

Even a lot of work has been saddled on Densus 88 starting from detection, investigation to an ambush. "Even after the actors are caught Densus still has to take care of their families," he said.