KNPI to raid gambling centers

KNPI to raid gambling centers

PALANGKA RAYA, Central Kalimantan: The local provincial chapter of the Indonesian National Youth Committee (KNPI) announced on Thursday that it would deploy satgas (local security task force) members to raid some entertainment and gambling centers during Ramadhan.

"We will soon send satgas youth officers to trace and sweep a number of sites believed to be used for gambling in Palangka Raya," said Hidayatullah S. Kurik, chairman of KNPI's local chapter.

He said the planned sweeps would involve satgas forces from various youth organizations in the city.

The move is an expression of public concern over social problems in the province that have so far been ignored by the regional government, he said.

"We are deeply concerned because a number of well-managed gambling centers could lead local youths astray," Hidayatullah said.

He said the continued operation of gambling centers during Ramadhan, when Muslims fast and perform other rituals, could create upheaval and other social problems.

The chairman of KNPI hoped the sweeps would not spark conflict, which could lead to unrest and violence.

The entertainment places believed to be operating gambling dens in Palangka Raya include those located on Jl. D.I. Panjaitan, Jl. R.T.A. Milono and Jl. Tjilik Riwut Palangka Raya.

Similar sweeps have been planned by various groups of Muslim extremists in many cities across the country during Ramadhan. --Antara