Hercules seeks Rp 2b in compensation

Hercules seeks Rp 2b in compensation

JAKARTA (JP): Former notorious hoodlum Hercules, who used to
operate in Tanah Abang area, Central Jakarta, has demanded that
the city administration pay him compensation of Rp 2.2 billion
for the destruction in 1997 of five properties that he owned in
the area.

Accompanied by eight associates, the East Timor-born Hercules
went to City Hall on Tuesday. However, he failed to meet any
senior officials at the Public Order Office. The former hoodlum
then went to the office of city secretary Fauzi Bowo to deliver
his demands.

Hercules said that his properties, which had been used as
bars, and their facilities such as kitchen equipment and
furniture, were worth Rp 600 million.

He said that along with clearing out the houses, the public
order officers also destroyed sound systems, guitars and
keyboards worth Rp 100 million.

"We also demand compensation of Rp 1.4 billion for loss of
future income," he said, noting that he used to earn at least Rp
1 million per day from operating the bars.

An official said Hercules' properties were destroyed by Betawi
(native Jakarta) people, who were angry with the hoodlum's
activities, during a massive brawl four years ago.

"So, it's not true that we destroyed his properties. Until now
he was still being searched for by Betawi people," the official
said while requesting anonymity.

Since the brawl, Hercules has been living in his wife's
hometown of Indramayu, West Java. (jun)