Prostitutes face repatriation

KUPANG, East Nusa Tenggara: The mayoralty government has threatened to take tough action against civil servants who frequent brothels.

Secretary to the mayor Fidelis Paranda said the rule is meant to discourage civil servants from being absent from their offices during work hours.

"In addition, staying away from brothels is a good way for them to avoid AIDS," he said.

The local government plans to repatriate prostitutes to their provinces of origin.

An estimated 500 prostitutes work in 35 brothels in East Nusa Tenggara, according to official figures. Six prostitutes were recently found to have contracted the virus that causes AIDS. (yac)