Detention of tax evaders

The Jakarta Prosecutor's Office will reportedly carry out an early investigation of errant taxpayers. Some 55 people owe Rp 55 billion in cumulative tax arrears.

The move should be appreciated, as tax evasion is damaging the country. Whoever they are, tax evaders should be punished.

In developed countries, we often hear about the detention of tax evaders. Even famous people are subject to this.

However, in present times, even Finance Minister Boediono has admitted that increasing the target for tax revenues is not easy. Tax exemption needs to be implemented to boost investment and, thereby, the economy. As such, the investigation of errant taxpayers should not be hindered.

The problem is, could the prosecutor's office act effectively within the existing procedure? As we all know, errant taxpayers are not ordinary common people -- they are usually famous and powerful.

The plan to detain tax evaders in special cells in jails would amount to nothing if they could easily evade paying tax.

-- Republika, Jakarta