Bus drivers go on strike

SURAKARTA, Central Java: Hundreds of bus drivers plying the Wonogiri-Surakarta route went on strike yesterday in protest against police fines which, they say, are unfair.

"We are angry because police ticket many of us for unclear reasons. They ticket drivers who have not violated any regulation," a spokesman for the drivers, Suparto, said.

"They have often demanded Rp 30,000 (US$13) as a fine. How do they think we can afford to pay it?" he added.

The strike began at 7 a.m., with drivers sitting idle in large groups at the bus terminal.

The drivers vowed to continue striking until the police discontinue "unfair" ticketing practices. (har/imn)