164 apprehended in ID operation

At least 164 people traveling without identification cards were apprehended in West Jakarta on Monday during an identity card check operation.

"The operation is aimed at reminding residents of the necessity of carrying IDs everywhere they go," said Eja Hutapea, head of the West Jakarta Population Office.

The ID card operation took place on several roads in the mayoralty, checking motorists and passengers of public transportation vehicles.

Of the 164 people apprehended in the operation, 144 were subjected to an on the spot trial especially established by the mayoralty administration, and ordered to pay a fine between Rp 6,000 (US$2) and Rp 7,000. Twenty others were found not guilty on any charge by the court.

Fifteen of them were unable to pay the fine set by the court and ordered to hand over their valuables, such as watches, as a guarantee. (has)