30 hookers netted in Bogor

BOGOR (JP): Police netted at least 30 prostitutes, including eight transvestites, in a midnight operation here on Monday.

Bogor Police chief Lt. Col. Edmond Ilyas said the arrested prostitutes, aged between 12 and 16, were handed over to the local Social Services Agency for further treatment after being brought to a speedy trial at Bogor District Court.

Each of the 30 were fined between Rp 10,000 and Rp 15,000 for their wrongdoings.

"They're not criminals. They were apprehended for violating City Bylaw No. 1/1990 on the cleanliness, order and beauty of the city," Edmond said.

He said the transvestites were caught on Jl. Pajajaran, while the other prostitutes were arrested on Jl. Juanda. Both roads are major thoroughfares.

The operation took place after a number of complaints were received from the public.

"We have acted quickly to avoid outbreaks of anger similar to those in the mountain resort areas of Puncak and Parung in which people set fire to buildings they thought were encouraging prostitution," Edmond said. (24/jun)