12 handguns confiscated

JAKARTA (JP): The City Police have confiscated at least 12 different handguns from alleged criminals over the last year.

Spokesman Lt. Col. E. Aritonang said that four of the 12 guns were seized this month from two gangs specializing in burglaries and robbing bank customers.

Two of the four are a Colt and a Smith & Wesson, both .38 caliber, which are usually used by the police on operational duties and for shooting exercises, respectively.

"Most of the criminals claimed that the guns were used only to frighten their victims. Only a few of them had actually shot their victims," Aritonang said.

Those criminals convicted of using the guns would face a heavier punishment, he said, adding that all the guns had been obtained illegally. (cst)