Alleged car thief shot by police

BOGOR (JP): One of two alleged car thieves was fatally shot by police in the wee hours of Monday when they accidentally crossed paths in Sukmajaya village, an officer said.

Bojong Gede Police chief First Insp. Kasdi said the policemen were responding to a different case when they saw a Toyota Kijang back into a sewer after reversing too fast on a narrow road.

The two men, identified later as Slamet S., alias Dedy, and his friend, Ade, got out of the car and fled on foot after the officers stepped out of their vehicle to ask what was happening, officer Kasdi said.

He said the officers fired a warning shot, but instead of surrendering Slamet drew a dagger which resulted in the shooting.

Slamet died after being shot in his back, hip and left arm. Ade was arrested.

"The officers didn't intend to investigate Slamet and Ade, but they aroused the officers' suspicion," Kasdi said.

The police did not disclose how many officers shot Slamet.(21/08)