Son attacks his own father

JAKARTA (JP): Police arrested a 21-year-old man yesterday for allegedly attacking his father with a machete.

City Police Spokesman Lt. Col. E. Aritonang said the attack took place after the father told the man, Saud Sugumanarto, 21, he could not marry his girlfriend.

The father, Kaulan, 47, was treated at Fatmawati Hospital, South Jakarta, for injuries to his neck and forearm.

Aritonang said that Kaulan had forgiven his son, "but we will keep Saud in detention because this was a criminal offense," he said.

He said Kaulan's statement might be considered by judges during a trial.

He said that Saud, who lived and worked in Banyumas, Central Java, visited his parents' house on Jl. Bangka II, Pela Mampang, South Jakarta, earlier this week.

Saud told his parents of his plan to marry, but became involved in an argument with them early yesterday when they advised him to wait a few more years so he could prepare for his future family, Aritonag said.

He said that Saud rejected the advice and became angry when his father told him he would not bless the wedding.

Aritonang said a psychiatrist would help in the police investigation of the attack. (cst)