Smuggling heist foiled in Batam

BATAM, Riau: The Batam police precinct foiled an attempt to smuggle electronic goods worth Rp 100 million (US$44,228) off Sambu Island, near Batam island, this week.

Chief of the police precinct Lt. Col. R. Bagus Ishak said yesterday that the goods were seized in a ferry during a regular patrol.

He said the ship, which was carrying 20 passengers from the Sekupang seaport in Batam to Pekanbaru, was carrying a range of contraband, including television sets, cassettes, cellular phones, laser discs and video tapes.

Three people suspected of smuggling the goods were arrested, Antara quoted him as saying. (rms)