Military threatens tough action in Aceh

Indonesia's defence minister, Mohammad Mahfud, says his country's forces are ready to take tough action against separatists rebels in Aceh, amid signs of increasing tension in the province.

His comments came after rebels belonging to the Free Aceh Movement released a statement saying thousands of their forces were prepared to meet any offensive by the Indonesian military.

Earlier this month, Indonesia's president, Abdurrahman Wahid, ordered the police and military to restore law and order in the province after peace talks with the rebels appeared to be making little progress.

Correspondents have described the separatist group's statement as a virtual declaration of war against the Indonesian authorities.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service