30 hookers netted in Bogor

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)