Gold smugglers released on bail

TANGERANG (JP): The Tangerang prosecutor's office released four alleged gold smugglers on bail Wednesday.

The suspects were reportedly caught by Soekarno-Hatta International Airport customs officers attempting to smuggle 204,05 kilograms of gold bars in January.

Edward Worotikan, head of the prosecutor's office, said the four -- Herman Lee, 37, Kohar, 57, Arman Tjakra, 39 and Hasim 55 -- were released on bail after promising not to flee the country and to be cooperative in the investigation process.

He would not disclose the amount of bail required.

The four were allegedly caught with 177 gold bars and 17 gold plates worth Rp 14 billion (US$127,272) as they were on their way to Singapore.

"Their dossiers have already been handed over by police to the Tangerang prosecutor's office," he said. (41/emf)