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)