Student beaten for robbery attempt

JAKARTA (JP): A high school student was beaten by taxi drivers following his attempt to rob a Dian taxi driver in East Jakarta.

The student, identified as Irman alias Cetek, 16, told police he needed money to cover daily expenses.

City Police Spokesman Lt. Col. E. Aritonang said yesterday that Irman got in the taxi driven by Asmui, 26, in Pondok Gede late Tuesday.

"Irman made Asmui drive around as if he did not know where he was going. When they were driving around Jl. Jati Bening, Irman suddenly threatened Asmui with a machete and demanded his wallet," Aritonang said.

The taxi meter had already reached Rp 23,000 (US$9.20), when Asmui threw his wallet to the backseat where Irman was seated, he said.

Asmui, who had slowed down, opened the door, jumped out of the car and screamed for help. At the time, Irman was busy trying to reach the wallet on the floor.

Some taxi drivers who were resting at a nearby food stall came and surrounded the taxi with Irman still in it.

A Pondok Gede Police patrol incidentally drove by and took Irsan in for questioning. (cst)