Women-only curfew in E. Java

JEMBER, East Java: Women will not be allowed out at night here following a curfew imposed by the local police.

The police chief, Adj. Sr. Comr. Winardi, said on Wednesday that the curfew, which is effective from 11 p.m. until dawn, was aimed at eradicating prostitution in the regency.

"We will reprimand and take severe sanctions against any woman caught outside during the curfew time, especially if they are proven to be sex workers," he said.

Winardi, however, said that he was still selecting the most applicable methods in a bid to avoid public anxiety.

The Women's Empowerment Movement (GPP) and the Movement of Indonesian Muslim Students have opposed the policy, saying it is terribly discriminatory. Antara