Drivers complain about extortion

JAKARTA (JP): Minivan drivers plying the Kebayoran Lama-Taman Mangu, West Java, route are complaining that a group of street hoodlums have been extorting money from them.

Albert Pohan, one of the drivers, said the extortionists led by RH Barat, threatened each of the drivers and forced them to give up Rp 1,500 each every day.

He said the extortion has been going on for almost eight years. "In extorting money from us the hoodlums often mentioned the names of certain Armed Forces members, saying that they are fully backed by these officers," Albert said.

On behalf of his fellow drivers, Albert urged the police and security officials overseeing the route to take firm action against the extortionists. (bas)