Mob attacks 30 houses

BANJARNEGARA, Central Java: At least 30 houses in Asinan village in Central Java regency were attacked on Monday, 10 people being severely damaged, by a mob protesting what they called an unfair village head election.

The crowd became angry after hearing that eventual election winner, Subarkah, had bribed voters. The 50-year-old candidate defeated Ali Mafngudi by just 10 votes in Friday's election.

The crowd, believed to be followers of Ali, smashed glass windows and destroyed goods they found in the houses.

Banjarnegara police chief Lt. Col. Sunardi said on Tuesday that a suspect, identified as Kiswoyo, 35, had been arrested.

"He admitted attacking the houses, but he denied provoking the people," Sunardi said. (45)