Children sell gambling coupons

PALU, Central Sulawesi: Dozens of children have become entangled in gambling activities here, Antara reported on Sunday.

The game they participate in involves white coupons bearing pictures and numbers.

Children between the age of 10 and 15 were seen on Sunday offering the coupons to customers.

"Selling these coupons is quite profitable," a 16-year-old said at the Masomba market in East Palu. He said he was able to net Rp 10,000 in profits a day.

The coupons offered at intersections were priced from Rp 500 to Rp 1,000.

The children attract customers by shouting the expected result of the gambling activities. "The White Crocodile is sure to make it tonight," one child was heard saying.

Residents and teachers have voiced concern about the involvement of children.

"If this goes on their education could be at stake," said Nur, 50, of Besusu Tengah in East Palu.

Governor HB Paliudju has urged strong action be taken against the illegal gambling activities.