14 policemen in Central Java discharged

14 policemen in Central Java discharged

Agus Maryono, The Jakarta Post, Purwokerto

At least 14 policemen in Central Java, including six high and middle-ranking officers, were dishonorably discharged in May and June for various disciplinary offenses, including desertion and drug use.

Central Java Police chief Insp. Gen. Erwin Mappaseng said here on Wednesday that some of the dismissed officers were involved in general crimes, such as fraud.

"The image of the police is in the hands of those on duty. Therefore, we will take stern action against those guilty of disciplinary breaches," he said after opening a training session for 849 police officers in Purwokerto, the capital of Banyumas, Central Java.

He admitted that many of his officers across the province were unable to carry out their duties with the "sympathy" necessary of members of the police.

"There are many police officers still blackmailing, defrauding and committing other crimes. We will take firm action against them," Erwin promised.

He said that during the first week of July alone, at least two more policemen had been put under investigation by the Central Java Police Headquarters for suspicion of drug use.

He said every member of the provincial police force, including those assigned to administrative jobs, were subject to supervision and monitoring by his office.

Urine tests will be given to officers suspected of being involved in drug syndicates, particularly those officers who are known to often visit amusement centers and nightspots, he added.

Erwin also said the police needed the public's help to improve the image of the force. "So criticize us so we will be able to solve these problems."

He promised to keep secret the identities of people reporting criminal cases involving police officers in the province.

"We don't have a law to protect witnesses, but we guarantee their safety," he said.