Beware of strangers

At 2 p.m. on Jan. 24, 1997 I was about to leave ITC Mangga Dua, the wholesale market in downtown Jakarta, when a young man accosted me. He was slightly built and dark skinned. In a Malay accent he said he belonged to a ship's crew and asked what the taxi fare would be to Sogo department store on Jl. Thamrin, thereby showing a Rp 50,000 banknote. He also said he was marketing electronic ware. Suddenly another man joined in the conversation. He was tall and heavily built, wore a tie and held a cellular phone and a thick wallet. He said he was able to market the electronic ware because he had a showroom in his office.

It was from this moment that I became involved in their activities. Despite saying that I was fasting, I found myself sitting in a restaurant with them. It was here a business transaction took place. I was led into a taxi to the nearest bank where I had a savings account.

My account was practically emptied. I only realized that I had been conned when I was put into a taxi to take me home. I called the telephone numbers given, but they did not respond. I then went to the office address. All was in vain. I was informed that no company of that name existed in the area. I was shocked, unable to move. May God forgive them and open their hearts and make them realize and regret their deed.

I would appeal especially to women not to go out on their own and carry bank documents or other valuables with them.

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