Gambling rife in Yogyakarta

YOGYAKARTA: The local legislative council is concerned about the widespread gambling that politicians suspect enjoys the backing of corrupt government officials.

Herman Abdurrahman, the council's deputy speaker, urged the authorities Thursday to crack down on owners of amusement centers who run fruit machines and other such games.

"If left unchecked, the gambling activities will badly affect youths and stain Yogyakarta's image as a cultural center," he said.

Gambling is banned by law in Indonesia. Many gambling dens in this ancient city are disguised as "games with prizes".

Desperate about the authorities' inaction, a group of youths in Umbulharjo area raided several places they suspected were gambling havens.

"If the authorities do nothing to stop gambling, then the (Umbulharjo) youths' action can be justified," Herman said. (23)