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)