AFP news agency reported that thousands of protesters took to the streets of Manokwari, the capital city of West Papua province, bringing the city of some 130,000 to a standstill.
Some demonstrators also set fire to shops and vehicles, knocked down street signs, and threw rocks at government buildings.
West Papua deputy governor Mohamad Lakotani confirmed that the parliament building had been set on fire, while downtown, markets, the port and shops were all affected. All activities were basically paralysed.
Three police officers were injured by rock-throwing protesters, but it was not immediately clear if any demonstrators were injured. Authorities closed local schools for the day, according to AFP.
