GAM linked to marijuana trade

JAMBI, Jambi: The local police will increase their patrols along the Trans-Sumatra Highway to combat the trafficking of marijuana from Aceh to Java, Antara reported on Friday.

Jambi Police chief Brig. Gen. Toto S. Soewali said that based on evidence gathered during some recent drug arrests, many of the syndicates were trafficking in marijuana to raise funds for the Aceh Free Movement (GAM).

"Some of the dealers admitted that the profits were to be used to buy weapons for GAM," Toto was quoted as saying by the news agency.

Toto said other regional police forces across Sumatra had also been ordered to be on the lookout for marijuana shipments along the highways. (04)