Government keeps slack checkpoint

Government keeps slack checkpoint

JAKARTA: The government insists on maintaining the Batu Ampar
immigration checkpoint in Riau although the place is poorly
equipped and vulnerable to smuggling.

Batu Ampar came under the spotlight following reports that the
"Ecstasy Queen" Zarina escaped via this checkpoint to the U.S.
three months ago.

Zaiman Nurmatias, director of immigration supervision and
enforcement, said yesterday some people had proposed the
checkpoint be closed down.

The chief of the Batam immigration office has proposed that
international travelers be checked through other ports, such as
Sekupang, Nongsa and Senimba Bay.

Zaiman said the government plans to renovate the Batu Ampar
port and improve the immigration facilities. (14)