Central Jakarta clinic owner denies abortion allegations

JAKARTA (JP): The owner of a clinic in Central Jakarta attended a local police subprecinct yesterday to deny neighbors' accusation that she performed abortions.

Central Jakarta Police chief Lt. Col. Iman Haryatna quoted Indrawati Dardiri, an obstetrician and gynecologist, as saying that her clinic had never conducted abortions.

Her seven assistants, who were questioned the previous day, also denied the allegations, Iman said.

"But their assertions do not mean that our investigation is over."

Iman reminded people residing around Khairani Clinic on Jl. Kramat VI/45 not to make accusations unless they can prove guilt.

"We have to stick to the presumption of innocence principle."

He did not say whether the doctor planned to sue neighbors for tarnishing her name and reputation.

On Wednesday, Central Jakarta Police temporarily closed the clinic following neighbors' complaints about alleged abortion practices at the clinic.

Dozens of people gathered in front of the clinic and accused Indrawati and her staff of performing abortions on patients.

Police arrived to disperse the protesters and took samples of fresh blood found on the clinic's bathroom floor and seized plastic bags containing blood clots as evidence.

The clinic's seven employees were questioned about their involvement in the alleged acts.

Dr. Indrawati was then summoned for questioning and she attended Senen Police subprecinct about 11 a.m. yesterday.

"She is not a suspect. So, her coming to the police station was not a case of surrender," Iman said.

Police will allow the clinic to resume operation if there is no evidence to prove the allegations leveled against Indrawati and her staff. (cst)