Public minivan drivers continued transportation strikes in Tangerang

Public minivan drivers continued transportation strikes in Tangerang, a city in Banten located approximately 12 mi/20 km west of Jakarta, the capital, on 7 August 2008. The drivers, stationed along the Cileduk-Pondok Kacang route, have parked their minivans throughout the city at intersections since 5 August, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. Organizers stated that the strike is directed against racketeers -- some dressed like police officers -- who have increasingly demanded and collected illegal fees from the drivers, sometimes resorting to violence when drivers refuse them. Drivers have filed police reports and stated that they will continue their strike until police officials take measures to stop the extortion and violence. In addition, the Association of Public Transportation Drivers (SPAU) pleaded with public transportation agencies to improve their operational systems, such as issuing public transportation permits to ensure the safety of the drivers on recommended routes.