Thousands of trained jihad warriors have arrived in the Moluccas from Java. Christians, unable to match the firepower of the warriors are fleeing to refugee camps, where they are being encircled by the Muslim radicals. Jihad warriors attack ships and trucks attempting to supply more than 34,000 refugees in the camps. A ferry carrying more than 500 refugees fleeing the violence sank June 29 after departing from Halmahera island, scene of some of the worst attacks. At least 100 Baptists were among the victims.
Authorities are uncertain whether the ferry was destroyed by Muslim extremists.
Reports indicate the Indonesian military in the region has divided between Christians and Muslim factions. The government in Jakarta initially refused to allow intervention from the United Nations or any other outside source. International Red Cross efforts were actively opposed by military units. Some observers believe the attacks against Christians are meant to cause the collapse of the Wahid government, which opposes Muslim radicals. The fall of the Wahid government would likely mean the freedom of Christians in the country would be limited.