Four more years sought for Zarina

JAKARTA (JP): Prosecutors in West Jakarta District Court on Tuesday wanted the panel of judges to sentence Zarina Mirafsur, still serving time in jail for a previous drug case, to four years in prison, plus a Rp 10 million (US$1,175) fine.

The 27-year-old single woman, who made the headlines of many tabloids after revealing that she was pregnant, was also ordered by the prosecutors to pay Rp 500,000 in court fees.

"The defendant has been proven guilty for possession of drugs, in this case, shabu-shabu (crystal methamphetamine)," prosecutor Hasan Madani told the court led by presiding judge Sri Handojo.

According to Hasan, the prosecutors agreed to give a light sentence to Zarina considering her age and pregnancy.

"Zarina is still considered young, 27, so we think that she could improve herself and become a good citizen. Besides, she's now pregnant," he said.

Zarina was arrested last November at a room in a luxurious West Jakarta hotel, with her accomplice Ahian Santosa, alias Yeye.

The city police seized 0.3 grams shabu-shabu and paraphernalia used to smoke the drug.

So far, there's no word from Zarina about her pregnancy.

Judge Sri Handojo adjourned the next hearing until June 6, where Zarina and her lawyers are expected to make an appeal. (09)