Ecstasy

Ecstasy

Concern is gripping us all. The finding of 158 Ecstasy pills in a surprise police raid on the Hard Rock Cafe shows that trafficking in prohibited drugs has not abated but is even increasing. It has been reported that many more entertainment spots have become centers for trafficking in Ecstasy, which costs as much as Rp 100,000 a pill. The finding of Ecstasy at the Hard Rock Cafe, which has so far been regarded as safe, shows that the traffickers are constantly expanding their market.

The failure of the police to apprehend any suspected users or peddlers of the drug teaches us that raids are not always effective in fighting crime, especially when syndicates are involved such as in the case of narcotics, prohibited drugs or motor vehicles. Raids can even eliminate the chance of nabbing the whole trafficking chain.

Nevertheless, we hope police will remain consistent in its determination to eradicate Ecstasy trafficking in our cities. It would be even better if the police would investigate the case and possibly penetrate the traffickers' network. Without this, the police will only be able to seize the evidence, but leave the problem untouched.

Apart from the police, the Ministry of Health -- which has stated that it has not yet included Ecstasy in its list of prohibited drugs because no research has been held -- should also act more quickly. Without a clear-cut ruling from the Ministry of Health regarding Ecstasy, the police will have a hard time finding a legal basis for making arrests.

-- Republika, Jakarta