DENPASAR ~ Bali’s new police chief, Teuku Asikin Husein, who replaced Paulus Purwoko, got straight down to work this week, promising to clear up pervasive gambling across the island.

Husein told a media briefing that highest priority in Bali was to protect the safety and livelihoods of the Balinese.

“My main concern is the Balinese people. Surely, security is the most important factor in keeping citizens prosperous and safe,” said the Aceh native.

He said that as the Balinese people relied heavily on tourism, the police were obligated to protect the safety and comfort of the island, both for foreigners and locals.

When asked about traditional cockfighting, he said it was a ritual that needed to be preserved, although it should not relate to any gambling.

“No religions, traditions or faiths allow gambling. If it seems that there is any gambling taking place, we will take action against it according to existing laws,” he said.

“Whoever violates the law will be processed according to the law,” he said.