Police hunting for 2 robbers in Bogor

BOGOR (JP): Police are stepping up their search for two robbers who managed to escape when police raided their hideout on Wednesday.

Bogor Police chief Col. Abubakar Nataprawira said yesterday eight people had been arrested during a raid on a house in Cijunjung village, Sukaraja district.

"We have asked officers from the four police precincts in Bogor to track down the two fugitives. We hope we can arrest them soon," Abubakar said.

The eight suspects arrested were identified as Erik Gultom, 29, Willem Silitonga, 30, T. Parlindungan, 30, Robinson, 20, Fendi Aritonang, 30, Toni Manurung, 27, S.T. Lumban Tirang, 26, and Rajab Siholuan, 27. Abubakar refused to name the two fugitives.

Six of the men arrested were Angkot (public transport minivan) drivers, one repaired tires and one was jobless, he said.

Abubakar said police confiscated two machetes, five swords, three iron bars and a pair of scissors from the suspects.

During preliminary questioning the gang admitted to having committed 42 robberies in Bogor, Jakarta, Purwakarta, Tangerang, Sukabumi and Bandung, he said.

"The men used to steal electronic goods and jewelry. They often injured victims who tried to resist," he added. (24/jun)