Massage parlors attacked in Ciracas

JAKARTA (JP): Nearly 300 people attacked seven small establishments on Jl. Raya Bogor in Ciracas, East Jakarta, Saturday night.

Two massage parlors, three stalls selling liquor, a stall traditionally operated by Batak people, and one billiard center, all located in two neighborhood units, were torn down during a rampage by local residents.

According to Toha Reno, the head of the public order office's entertainment division, the attack was related to previous protests by residents upset with the establishments in their area.

"The residents said the amusement centers were violating regulations," he said. One of the massage parlors, he said, was only in possession of a restaurant permit.

Toha said some of the places destroyed had been closed down by his office earlier, but had resumed operating several days later.

No casualties were reported and financial losses have yet to be calculated. (04)