YOGYAKARTA- Due to eruption of Mount Merapi, which has occurred since October 26, 2010, thousands of residents, particularly in the vicinity of Sleman, Magelang, Klaten, and Boyolali must be evacuated to various locations. Unfortunately, in the midst of the disaster, certain people take advantage to steal or loot belongings and cattles owned by residents who had left to evacuate.
Researcher from the Center for Security and Peace Studies of UGM, Drs. Riza Noer Arfani, MA, expects that the government along with disaster response team of Mount Merapi not forget safety, especially in the hamlet or village that has been left empty. "I saw it yesterday, the hamlets around Sardonoharjo looked very quiet. I hope that the security force can anticipate it in order to avoid looting," said Riza on Monday (8/11).
Riza said many locations, such as the entrance to Jalan Kaliurang km 12-13, is very quiet so it is unsafe. Riza assessed the IDPs mostly had brought handy items, while valuable items, such as securities, certificates, and cattles, were left at home. "Many people take advantage of the weak security situation," the man graduated from S-2 Syracuse University, New York, U.S added.
So far, the focus of handling Merapi eruption is mostly on the IDPs and health. Riza who once delivered humanitarian aid for Merapi survivors in Muntilan, Central Java, saw the coordination between various groups is not good.
He saw that the aid, especially those given by the government, is still not as much as needed in the area. Many residents still complain about logistical problems, drinking water, and toilet. "In that region, the number of victims is fewer, but the infrastructure has been damaged more severely. Yesterday, members of the Army were also sent there to help clean volcanic ashes," said Riza who is also a lecturer at the Department of International Relations UGM.
Thefts or looting are not a figment. Previously, as many as 5 cows and 21 goats were confiscated by police officers of Yogyakarta. The livestocks were stolen by a young man. The thief made use of resident’s fear who had left their place. Police continued to prevent criminal acts because there are many houses and cattle being abandoned.