Riau officials warn of phony journalists

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)