Riau officials warn of phony journalists

PEKANBARU, Riau: Officials of the Riau branch of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) are warning the public of extortionists disguised as journalists.

"You should inform the local PWI office if you are in doubt of the real identity of a person claiming to be a journalist," chairman Rida K. Liamsi was quoted by Antara on Friday.

Rida said his office has received complaints from government officials and businessmen of being blackmailed by such individuals.

He said a number of the perpetrators have falsified documents citing Jakarta-based newspapers and magazines.(imn)