Police Inspect Jakarta Nightclub After Drug Allegations, Find No Narcotics

JAKARTA, Aug 8 (KABAR 24) - Indonesian police inspected a nightclub in Central Jakarta early on Saturday following media reports alleging possible drug abuse at the venue, but found no narcotics during the operation, police said.

Ten officers from the Kemayoran police precinct inspected Meteor Executive Club & KTV, located on the 10th floor of ITC Cempaka Mas in Kemayoran, at about 12:30 a.m. local time, police said.

Officers questioned workers and visitors and searched individuals, clothing and several enclosed areas as part of the inspection. Police also checked the venue's operating hours, according to the police.

"No narcotics or other items suspected to be narcotics were found," police said, adding that the inspection was conducted safely and without incident.

Central Jakarta Police Chief Commissioner Reynold EP Hutagalung said authorities would follow up on information from the public and media concerning suspected drug activity.

"We will not give even the smallest space to drug dealers or traffickers in Central Jakarta," Reynold said. "Every piece of information related to suspected drug abuse will be followed up according to procedure."

Central Jakarta police narcotics chief Senior Commissioner Wisnu S. Kuncoro said efforts to combat drug trafficking included both enforcement and prevention, with public participation needed to detect suspected drug activity.

"The synergy between the police and the public is key to breaking the chain of drug trafficking," Wisnu said.

Wisnu said the inspection at Meteor Executive Club & KTV had not uncovered narcotics, but police would continue periodic monitoring and inspections of entertainment venues to prevent drug abuse.

Police urged members of the public to report suspected drug trafficking or abuse through the national police hotline 110, which operates around the clock.(Gusti Haes)