Mon, 02 Aug 1999

Fire burns police precinct

PARE PARE, South Sulawesi: Fire severely damaged the Pare Pare city police headquarters, including the office of chief Lt. Col. Hendrawan, Antara reported on Sunday.

A short circuit in the computer room was believed to be the cause of the fire, which started at 11:50 a.m. However, officers succeeded in saving important files, weapons and 10 prisoners. The detective and operation rooms were also damaged.

The fire was put out at noon with the help of locals.

"The headquarters is an old building which is prone to such a disaster," Pare Pare Regional Police chief Col. Mardjito said.

No casualties were reported and losses had yet to be calculated. (05)