Indonesian paratroopers ordered to 'finish off' separatist rebels in Aceh

INDONESIA sent more paratroopers into Aceh yesterday in a massive offensive to destroy separatist rebels, while world leaders urged Jakarta to restart talks with the insurgents.

Five rebels were killed and seven others captured during the first day of the assault yesterday, said Lt Col Achmad Yani Basuki.

Indonesia has sent more than 1,000 elite troops to the north-west province, firing rockets and landing marines in what is expected to be its biggest military operation since it invaded East Timor in 1975.