Adiguna trial to start on Feb. 24

JAKARTA: The trial of Adiguna Sutowo, who is to be tried for the murder of a waiter on New Year's over a disputed bill, will begin on Thursday at the Central Jakarta District Court.

The waiter, Yohannes Berchmans "Rudy" Haerudy Natong, who was also a university student, died due to a single gunshot wound to the head at the Hilton Hotel's Fluid Bar.

Prosecutors have admitted that the absence of Adiguna's fingerprints on the murder weapon might present a problem in the case.

"It is controversial and will be used by the defense," said Andi Herman, a prosecutor in the case. "However, we are confident ... We have statements from witnesses and other evidence."

Adiguna, who is the younger brother of the Hilton Hotel's owner Ponco Sutowo, is charged with murder and the illegal possession of a firearm. -- JP