Couples told they are living in sin

PURBALINGGA, Central Java: At least 51 married couples in Karangreja district recently discovered to their horror that they have in fact been living out of wedlock.

The couples were recently notified that their marriage certificate may be fake.

Head of the Karangreja Religious Affairs Office, Sumar HS, said on Monday that the couples were deceived by his predecessor.

"I believe the scam has been going on for three years," said Sumar, who was sworn in to the post six months ago.

"The motive is none other than money. By issuing a fake marriage license the head of the office does not have to make an official report and also does not have to account for the money received for the administrative fees when issuing a license."

The scam was discovered when a couple came to the office asking for their original marriage certificate.

Sumar could not find any entry concerning their marriage. Further investigation revealed that at least 50 couples who thought they were married were not registered with the office.

Refusing to reveal the identity of his predecessor, Sumar said police are carefully investigating the case. (45)