Police question Bantul official

YOGYAKARTA (JP): Bantul and Yogyakarta police investigating the death of Bernas journalist Fuad Mohammad Sjafruddin, known as Udin, have questioned a close associate of Bantul regent Sri Roso Sudarmo.

Sukrisno, the head of administration affairs in Wirokerten village, was questioned for several hours. Detective Lt. Col. Erwin Tobing said several more people would also be questioned.

Udin's death three days after he was assaulted at his home on Aug. 13, 1996 has been linked to his reports on corruption in the regency, including the involvement of the regent himself.

The military police have yet to question a Yoyyakarta police officer involved in the case, Edy Wuryanto, as demanded by the Yogyakarta Legal Aid Office (LBH). Edy reportedly destroyed evidence and framed a suspect, Dwi Sumiadji. The military police said Edy was still being questioned by the Yogyakarta police. (44)