Crowds force police to release detainees

PADANG: Two thousand Muaro Paneh dwellers attacked the Solok regency police headquarters, demanding the release of nine detainees on Monday.

The police had arrested them for gambling. The suspects, said to be residents, were gambling while waiting for the predawn breakfast on Sunday in Koto Kaciak village, Muaro Paneh, 60 kilometers from Padang.

Following the arrest, rumors spread that the suspects were tortured, Lt. Col. Subagio, the chief of Solok regency police said. This led to the attack on Monday night, involving residents carrying machetes.

Under the pressure the detainees were finally released. (28/01)