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ndragiri Hilir Police in Riau province revealed on Thursday that they had apprehended Sugito, 63, for allegedly molesting five underage girls who he taught as a religion teacher.

"Most victims are elementary school students with ages ranging from 7 years old to 10 years old," Riau Police spokesman Adj. Sr. Comr. Guntur Aryo Tejo was quoted as saying by Antara news agency.

Guntur added that the police apprehended the suspect on Wednesday following a report from one of the victims' parents to the Kemuning Police station.

The suspect reportedly told police investigators that he groped the private parts of the girls, identified only by their initials of DP, 8, SN, 7, DE, 10, SR, 7, and WD, 7.

To cover up his acts, he gave Rp 2,000 (15 US cents) to each girl, telling them to keep quiet.

One of the victims, however, reported the incident to her parents who later took the case to the police. (dmr)(++++)