Hoodlums hired for security

JAKARTA (JP): With financial support from residents, Penjaringan Police in North Jakarta have trained and hired at least 30 local hoodlums to help safeguard the area, home to many wealthy Chinese-Indonesian families.

North Jakarta Police chief Lt. Col. Setyawan told the media yesterday after attending a ceremony to welcome the "force" named Police Back-ups (Banpol) that the scheme was also meant to help the poor earn a livelihood during this time of hardship.

The 30 Banpol personnel, attired in brown uniforms almost similar to police uniforms, have also been trained in self- defense and firearm usage.

"I prefer to be a Banpol like this rather than committing crime on the street. Besides, it's good experience for us," said Budi Santoso, one of the Banpol personnel.

Each of the Banpol personnel will receive a monthly wage of Rp 150,000.

Penjaringan was one area hardest hit by mobs during the May riots. (bsr)