Gambling rife in Dili

DILI, East Timor: Townspeople have called on the government to do something to stop the widespread gambling in the youngest province.

They raised the issue in their meeting Saturday with the visiting Minister of Justice Oetojo Oesman.

Oetojo assured them that the government is against gambling because it is banned by law.

"The government's stand is clear: It is does not tolerate gambling. Those arrested for gambling will be legally processed," Oetojo was quoted by Antara as saying.

East Timor Governor Abilio Jose Osorio Soares had earlier instructed local authorities to take action to stop gambling and prostitution in the province. (ste)