The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) recently made headlines after a sting operation in Riau led to the detainment of Governor Abdul Wahid and nine others. Authorities suspect the group of being involved in an extortion scheme tied to the budgeting process in the Public Works and Spatial Planning Office (PUPR) of Riau.
KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo confirmed that ten individuals are under scrutiny—nine apprehended during the operation and one who later surrendered. The group includes Abdul Wahid, his trusted aide Tata Maulana, and expert staff member Dani M. Nursalam. Others held are the Head of PUPR, the Deputy Head of PUPR, and five heads of regional technical units (UPT). Identities of some officials have not been publicly disclosed.
Details on the Modus Operandi
Budi Prasetyo explained that the alleged extortion involved the allocation of increased budgets within the PUPR office. The investigative team believes there was a prearranged percentage from the additional budget that was informally allocated for the regional head and associates. "There were additional allocations in the PUPR budget, and some portion was treated as a sort of protection fee for regional leadership," Budi said in a statement to journalists.
While the exact mechanism of the alleged extortion is not yet clear, investigators are actively interrogating witnesses to establish a full account of how the scheme operated. The KPK has stated that further details, including a full list of suspects, will be announced in a forthcoming press conference.
Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
During the operation, authorities seized cash in several currencies, including Indonesian rupiah, US dollars, and pounds sterling. KPK estimates the collective value of the seized money exceeds one billion rupiah. "Apart from securing those involved, the team also confiscated cash in various currencies amounting to more than one billion rupiah when converted," Budi clarified.
Preliminary findings indicate that the corruption allegations directly pertain to administrative activities within the Riau PUPR office. The focus remains on the improprieties related to budget increases and the subsequent financial benefits allegedly funneled to select officials.
Individuals Involved
Below is a breakdown of those detained or implicated based on current information:
- Abdul Wahid (Governor of Riau)
- Tata Maulana (Trusted aide to Abdul Wahid)
- Dani M. Nursalam (Expert staff)
- Head of PUPR Office
- Deputy Head of PUPR
6-10. Five UPT Heads (identities pending public disclosure)
KPK assures the public that legal procedures are being followed, and status updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in combating corruption within public offices.
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