15,000 Banyumas officials to have urine tests

Agus Maryono, The Jakarta Post, Purwokerto

Around 15,000 civil servants in Banyumas regency, Central Java, will undergo a urine test in the near future to ensure that their bodies are free from illegal drugs.

The plan has followed reports that some local officials are addicted to narcotics, Banyumas Regent Aris Setiono told journalists earlier this week.

He added that the move would also be part of efforts to prevent the further spread of drug abuse in the town, which has begun to hit local students.

Earlier last month, at least 45 members of the Banyumas legislative council underwent a urine test. However, the results have not been released.

Bambang Priyono, secretary of the Banyumas administration, who also chairs the city's drug board, said a similar test would also likely be conducted on local university students.

Banyumas Police chief Sr. Comr. R. Nata Kesuma said that, apart from civil servants and students, local police officers would also be subject to urine tests.

"We will punish those whose drug tests prove positive," he promised.

Alcoholic drinks and drugs have become a matter of serious concern in Banyumas, with civil servants and students from junior and senior high schools as well as universities targeted by dealers or falling victim to them.

The latest drug incident occurred last Friday when the local police arrested nine senior high school students from Sumpiuh subdistrict for having a marijuana and liquor party during school hours.

The party was held at a empty house, while the suspects wore school uniform.

Two weeks ago, a joint team of Banyumas police and officials from the local education office rounded up at least 100 senior and junior students who were skipping classes.

They were arrested at tourism and entertainment spots, where some of them were buying liquor.

Last year, the local police also arrested at least eight senior high school students who got drunk and raped a female student.

The spread of illegal drugs in Banyumas, the capital city of Purwokerto, was believed to have emanated from the Baturraden tourism resort, discos and cafes.

It was unclear whether there would be regular liquor or drug raids on local entertainment centers in future.