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