papua

Tensions between pro-independence supporters and government authorities in Indonesia's Papua and West Papua provinces have continued into a second week. The government has shut down Internet access.

Torrential rain led to flash floods and landslides that swept away homes, buildings and people. Rescuers continue to search for survivors as waters recede in one of the poorest parts of the country.

Rescue crews did recover the plane's black boxes, which may provide a clue as to why the plane carrying 54 passengers and crew crashed in Papua province.

The Trigana Air Service turboprop plane was carrying 54 people as well as $468,750 in cash intended as fuel aid for poor families.

The turboprop reportedly lost contact with the ground on approach to the central Papua city of Oksibil. The wreckage has been spotted a few miles from the city.