Sat, 08 Jun 1996

Refined robbers

It seems to me that burglars are becoming more impudent and their victims are becoming more afraid of them, instead of the other way around.

An old couple in my neighborhood had a good collection of Indonesian and Chinese paintings. One night the old couple awoke to the unmistakable sound of sassy sneaks set on snatching their splendid sketches. Much to their chagrin and frustration, the old couple were too afraid to leave their bedroom, let alone scream for help. Both were fully conscious of the fact that Jakarta's burglars do not hesitate to kill their victims when trapped.

The old couple lost five paintings to the connoisseur crooks, proving that even thieves refine their skills.

Afterwards, the old couple employed two guards to secure their home day and night. Every time they see their hired guns loafing they cannot help wonder if they are right to pay full salaries to two men for doing nothing all day.

A. DJUANA

Jakarta