Child prostitutes in Central Java

PURBALINGGA, Central Java: Hundreds of child prostitutes are reportedly operating in Purwokerto, Cilacap and Purbalingga.

Lt. Col. Robby Kaligis, chief of the Purbalingga police precinct, said here yesterday the local police had netted more than 20 child prostitutes this month alone.

He said the underage prostitutes, locally known as ciblek, operate at entertainment spots and crossroads in the towns.

"The prostitutes, mostly elementary-school dropouts, turn to prostitution because of economic and family reasons," he said. (45)