Student arrested for alleged arms smuggling

Student arrested for alleged arms smuggling

SURABAYA (JP): Police arrested a student returning from the
United states over the weekend on suspicion of attempting to
smuggle weapons into Indonesia.

Brawijaya Military Commander Maj. Gen. Imam Utomo, who
oversees security in East Java, said that Daniel Latief, 25, has
been questioned about the smuggling several rifles, pistols and
ammunition in a container through the Surabaya port.

Port authorities Wednesday detected the weapons which were
hidden in Daniel's container marked "personal effects". Daniel is
known to be a returning student residing in Jakarta.

However, at present there seems to be no political motive
behind the smuggling, Imam said.

"There is still no proof that the firearms were to be used for
separatist movements," Imam said, adding that most of the weapons
were of a hunting caliber and only a few were of the standard
military type.

Nevertheless, customs officials remain puzzled as to why
hunting weapons would need to be smuggled when they are readily
produced in Indonesia.

According to Imam, Daniel is known to be an avid gun
enthusiast and has also honed his shooting skills with the
Indonesian Target Hunting and Shooting Association.

"Whether for hunting purposes or for criminal intent, what's
certain is that bringing in weapons without the official permits
is a crime," Imam remarked.(15/mds)