Transvestite killed in East Jakarta

Transvestite killed in East Jakarta

JAKARTA (JP): The bound body of a 28-year-old transvestite who
owned a modeling agency and also worked as a choreographer was
found dead Sunday in his house in East Jakarta.

The wounds to the body have led forensic doctors at Cipto
Mangunkusumo General Hospital to issue a preliminary report
saying that Paulus Kasman was probably murdered.

"I found strong indications of strangulation on his neck which
was also covered with wounds caused by sharp objects," Djaja
Surya Atmaja, who autopsied Paulus, said yesterday.

Djaja said Paulus' had been gagged with a cloth and he had
been choked with someone's left hand.

His throat had been crushed, Djaja said.

Paulus was found dead, his hands and feet bound with rope.

"Besides being a choreographer, Paulus also ran the Pauline
Modeling Agency in Kelapa Gading," Petrus K. Kasman, the victim's
older brother, said.

A Ciracas police sub precinct officer said yesterday that the
exact cause of death had yet to be announced.

First Lieutenant Eddy Hasbie said police have identified a man
who they suspect may be able to help them with their inquiries
into the circumstances surrounding the man's death.

"They (the man and Paulus) knew each other well, and we
haven't seen any sign of robbery or looting at the scene of
crime, so far," Eddy said.

"The murderer took only photos of himself, which had been in
Paulus' possession, and drove off in the victim's car, a Toyota
Corona sedan," he said.

Police have confiscated evidence, such as bottles and ropes,
which was allegedly used to attack the victim. (04)