Police heed threat of arson attacks

PURWOKERTO, Central Java: Police here have stepped up protection around an unlicensed prostitution site near the Baturaden recreation area after numerous threats of arson attacks.

Baturaden Police chief Lt. Khozin told The Jakarta Post on Thursday said he was not considering closing the site at present because it provided a livelihood to many people.

"If we shut the place down, many street vendors, hotels and others will lose their source of income," Khozin said, noting that the police would increase patrols to protect the site.

The continuous threats made by unknown individuals have forced many to leave the area.

Some small structures have even put up signs saying "Family" or "Private Home" as a prevention measure.

A local resident, Bawor, 23, claimed that the threats were being made by pimps who felt threatened because their income and influence were diminishing. (45/dja)