Ex-convict clubbed to death

Ex-convict clubbed to death

PEMALANG, Central Java: Tafsir bin Ma'ani, a 31-year-old ex- convict, was clubbed to death by a mob of Walangsana villagers in the Moga district after news got around that he had stolen a tape recorder.

The Antara news agency reported yesterday that Tafsir's face was damaged beyond recognition. Lt. Col. Aleksius of the Pekalongan police office said nine people suspected of taking part in the violence have been detained for questioning.

In the Tasik Rejo village, Ulujami district, Tri B. Santoso, 25, was also beaten by the local people after his attempt to rob a villager was foiled.

Brandishing a knife, Tri and a friend called Joko forced Kasmuri to hand over his wallet just outside the village gate. The two then tried to escape on a motorcycle, but Tri fell and was caught by the local people. Joko is still at large. (swe)