inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Maluku Regional Police urged the public to exercise restraint and not be provoked following a clash between groups of youths in Danar Village, Kei Kecil Timur Selatan District, Southeast Maluku Regency, which occurred from Friday (3/26/2026) evening to Saturday (3/27/2026) early morning.

"It's true that a clash between groups of youths occurred. Personnel from the Southeast Maluku Sub-regional Police have handled the situation quickly, and the situation is now gradually calming down," said Head of Public Relations for the Maluku Regional Police, Senior Superintendent Rositah Umasugi, in Ambon on Friday (3/27/2026).

She explained that the incident began with a misunderstanding between youths, which then led to a mass gathering and throwing stones at each other. The situation calmed down after the arrival of officers, but escalated again in the early hours of the morning.

The incident resulted in several injuries, with three from the police force, three from community, and one reportedly died.

In addition to the fatalities and injuries, the clashes also resulted in material losses, including three burned houses, four severely damaged houses, and one burned motorcycle. This data is preliminary and will be updated based on developments on the ground.

Rositah added that the situation has now been brought under control by security authorities as police officers have also established a barrier to separate the two warring groups.

She emphasized that the police are prioritizing persuasive measures, professional law enforcement, and coordination with community leaders, religious leaders, and local governments to maintain security and stability.

"We urge the entire public to exercise restraint, not be provoked, and entrust the handling of this situation entirely to the security forces. Efforts for reconciliation and social recovery are ongoing," he stressed.

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