Five-man gang robs businessman's house

JAKARTA (JP): A group of at least five robbers burgled the Central Jakarta house of a businessman early on Friday, making off with a stash of money and goods including Rp 36.5 million and US$50,000 in cash.

Central Jakarta police detective chief Maj. Budiono Sandi identified the home owner as Ferry Imransyah, 30, a resident of Bendungan Jati in Bendungan Hilir, Central Jakarta.

The gang also stole three kilograms of gold, two Ericsson mobile phones and five branded wristwatches.

The robbers entered the two-story house at about 3 a.m. after they scaled a fence and subdued Ferry's workers in a front pavilion.

Budiono said Ferry, two friends, a gardener, security guard, driver and two housemaids were at home when the robbery occurred.

"Those sleeping on the first floor of the two-story house were tied up with ropes and sarongs and guarded by one of the gang," the officer said.

Alerted by the commotion, Ferry rushed from the living room where he was chatting with his friends.

"However, Ferry and his two friends were immediately threatened by the robbers with sickles, and ordered to keep quiet. The robbers then demanded Ferry show them his safe," Budiono said.

They stole cash and valuables from the first floor, but did not proceed to the upstairs.

"The two housemaids sleeping on the second floor were left unharmed. The housemaids said they slept soundly and heard nothing," he added.

The gang fled from the house in a white Kijang van parked outside. (emf)