Master's Degree Holder Arrested for Robbing Gold Shop with Toy Pistol Amidst Debt Crisis

A man with a master's degree was arrested for robbing a gold shop in Depok, Indonesia, using a knife and a toy pistol to threaten staff and residents. The suspect, identified as RWP, 40, reportedly turned to crime due to overwhelming online loan debts and a lack of employment.

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With his modus operandi, the suspect entered the Pucung Jaya gold shop by jumping over the shop's display case.

The incident occurred on Thursday, May 28, when RWP allegedly jumped over a shop counter at the Pucung Jaya gold store in Cilodong. After brandishing a knife and kicking a victim, he took cash from the drawer. As he attempted to flee, he reportedly used a toy pistol to scare off pursuing residents.

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After using the knife, then the second time when trying to escape, he used a (toy) pistol. So this (toy) pistol's function was to scare the residents who were chasing.

RWP managed to steal approximately Rp20 million in cash, but police confirmed no gold or jewelry was taken. He admitted to police that he was desperate to pay off his debts, which he incurred to cover daily living expenses. He has been unemployed for three years since being laid off.

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If we interrogate the perpetrator, he was desperate. It was as if he had no other options, he was burdened by debt.

He faces charges under Article 479 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, with a potential sentence of up to nine years in prison.

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Yes (the perpetrator has a master's degree).