In Aceh, the Islamic conservatives are once more pushing the enforcement of Islamic law (Sharia). Aceh was always stricter in its religious beliefs than the rest of Indonesia. Police are now accosting women who are not covered up, and next week, Islamic courts will begin beating those caught gambling.
The fighting with separatist rebels in Aceh is increasing. So far this year, at least 260 Aceh rebels have been killed in the fighting.