Police to set up HIV/AIDS info center

JAKARTA: The Jakarta Police narcotics division is to set up an HIV/AIDS public information center next month, following the establishment of a narcotics information center three months ago.

"The planned HIV/AIDS information center will answer questions from the public, who can contact us through our 112 hotline or send us messages via cellular phone at 08179996666," narcotics division chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Carlo Brix Tewu said on Thursday. The public can also access the center through the Internet at www.narkoba-metro.org.

"The center is being established in response to the low public awareness on AIDS," he said, adding that the public was welcome to visit the center at city police headquarters on Jl. Sudirman, South Jakarta.

AIDS activists have recorded many drug users who have become infected with HIV through needle-sharing and general poor knowledge of the disease.

"The police will collaborate with activist Baby Jim Aditya and her organization for the center," Carlo said.

The center will also provide information to people living with HIV/AIDS on institutions that offer medical treatment. -- JP