Christian students against gambling

MANADO, North Sulawesi: Fifty-six members of the local branch of the Christian Student Movement urged the local administration yesterday to put an end to gambling, which is rife in the area.

Led by the movement's chief Goinpeace Tumbel, they marched to the provincial legislative council to press their demand.

They warned that gambling can plunge local people into poverty, cause crime, and threaten domestic harmony.

They demanded that the bookmakers -- and the government officials who back the illegal gambling activities -- be punished, Antara reported.

Spokesman for the council J.D.P. Takaindengan promised to bring the students' concern to the bureaucracy.

On Tuesday, a group of church leaders lodged a similar protest with the council. Gambling is banned by law in Indonesia. (pan)