Snake galls bring bad luck

MEDAN, North Sumatra: A robber's plan to get away with 10 kilograms of snake gall stolen from a serpent farm ended up in a ditch when he was beaten black and blue by an angry mob.

The suspect, 33-year-old Man, was one of four robbers who broke into the house of snake farmer Johan Cahaya in Rengas Pulau Labuhan Deli early Wednesday.

The other three managed to escape, with the stolen goods, in a car. The value of the stolen goods is yet to be estimated, Antara reported yesterday, quoting police.

They broke into Johan's house after tying up the on duty security guard. They also reportedly assaulted Johan to force him into give up his valuables.

Police said Man, apparently, was not quick enough to get into the car when Johan's neighbors rushed to the scene. The angry mob found him hiding in a ditch.

Snake galls are, traditionally, believed to be good for healing various diseases. (pan)