Sulawesi haj swindler arrested

UJUNGPANDANG, South Sulawesi: Police have arrested Daeng Beta for allegedly swindling at least 154 would-be haj pilgrims.

Daeng was arrested Tuesday evening just as relatives of those who were cheated ransacked his home demanding recompense for their lost money.

Daeng had reportedly swindled Rp 10 million to Rp 15 million from each of his victims.

The cheated pilgrims are now stranded on the island of Batam, Riau. (37)