Fishermen involved in prostitution

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Governor Jacob Pattipi alleged yesterday that Thai fishermen have been involved in prostitution in Merauke, Antara reported.

Following an outbreak of AIDS several years ago, Thai fishermen have been barred from going ashore as they have been known to carry HIV, the virus that causes the disease.

However, Jacob alleged, the crew of Thai vessels circumvented the prohibition by making "transactions" on board.

"They bring the prostitutes on board, go to Aru Island, and after that, they return to Merauke," he said, adding that the crewmen put the local people at risk of being infected by HIV.

Merauke regency is a main base for Thai's fishing boats.

According to Jacob, in addition to Merauke, the regencies of Fakfak and Kaimana are also important areas for fishing boats from Thailand.

Meanwhile, the head of the provincial health office, Slamet, said Irian Jaya has the second largest number of people with AIDS and HIV in Indonesia, with 37 people with AIDS and 115 HIV positive people up to September this year.

In Merauke, he said, there are 32 people with AIDS and 78 people are HIV positive. (swe)