Robbers in action in Semarang

SEMARANG: Two robbers armed with a pistol and a sword robbed wealthy businessman Beni Probang at his house in Semarang early Friday morning, stealing jewelry worth Rp 70.8 million (US$8,330).

The robbers also made off with cash totaling Rp 3.8 million and three cell phones in the robbery, which took place in a plush housing estate in Ngesrep.

Beni, 33, told police that he was surprised when the robbers woke him and forced him to hand over valuables.

The robbers fled in a Toyota minivan after tying their victim up.

Police believe the same robbers are responsible for a similar robbery on Thursday, where another Semarang resident, Tikno, 40, from Majapahit, a few kilometers from Ngesrep, was targeted.

The first robbery netted the armed robbers Rp 8 million in cash, jewelry worth Rp 1 million and two cell phones. Police are still investigating. -- JP