Sat, 08 Apr 2000

Drivers strike over threats by hoodlums

PEKANBARU, Riau: Hundreds of public transportation drivers here continued their strike on Friday to protest the presence of hoodlums along their routes.

The strike began on Wednesday following the assault of a driver by several hoodlums. Antara reported the protest has left many passengers, mostly students, stranded during the day.

In response to the strike, local security authorities promised to conduct a raid on the hoodlums and secure the route from other forms of crime, including pickpocketing and holdups.

Local police data show such crimes happen almost daily, with many arrests made. (dja)