Students protest rampant gambling

SEMARANG, Central Java: Some 100 students of the Indonesian Muslim Students Action Group (KAMMI) rallied in front of the Provincial Legislative Council compound on Monday, demanding the local administration and police eradicate rampant gambling practices.

KAMMI coordinator Imam Marjuki said gambling activities have been held in public places, while the police had failed to take stern action against them.

"The police probably allow the activities to continue, while the gambling eradication team, set up by local legislative council, have failed to put an end to such practices even now during the holy month of Ramadhan," Imam said.

He said people used all kinds of activities, such as a card game togel, billiards and even water currents for gambling.

"They gamble in public areas, such as market places, bus terminals, mosques and churches.

"What is worse is that there are some government officials, military and police officers who back the gambling practices," Imam said. (har/lup)