Mechanics face dismissal

TANGERANG (JP): At least 50 mechanics are facing dismissal after a local motorcycle dealer unilaterally halted its contract with four motorcycle repair shops where they work.

Owner of the repair shops, Napendy, said on Thursday PT Wahana Makmur Sejati, the sole dealer of Honda motorbikes, terminated their cooperation contract on Nov. 20 last year without informing the vehicle producer PT Astra International.

Napendy owns two Honda authorized repair shops in Batuceper district, one in Cipondoh district and the other in Ciledug district, all in the Tangerang mayoralty.

He said PT Wahana canceled the deal and accused him of running a newly opened repair shop without the dealer's consent.

He admitted that he opened a new repair shop, but claims it serves any brand of motorbike.

The dealer had threatened to seize equipment and materials from the Honda authorized repair shops, which could leave all existing mechanics unemployed. (41/jun)