The Crisis Center of the Catholic Diocese of Ambon has verified the identity of the assailants. Local authorities confirmed the death of three people in the attack, as well as the destruction of 80 homes and eight public buildings, including a church and school.
Following the attack, 829 residents in the Hatu Alang neighorbood took refuge in nearby forests. Later, they were evacuated by ship and taken to Alang, southwest of Laha, in Ambon Island.
Alang Asaude was also attacked by a group of Muslim fundamentalists last August. On that occasion, 240 homes were destroyed, as well as a school, a health center and the local church.
