The Riau Islands Provincial Government Denies That The Governor Asked For Money From Mosques And Foundations

KEPRI Accused of asking for money from a number of administrators of mosques and foundations, the Riau Islands Provincial Government's Communication and Information Office (Kominfo) denied.

"This is a fraud. I consider this an attempt to defame the Riau Islands Governor," said Head of the Riau Islands Diskominfo, Hasan as quoted by Antara, Sunday, January 7.

Hasan regretted the fraudulent act on behalf of Governor Ansar Ahmad, causing victims of a number of mosque administrators and foundations in Riau Islands.

According to him, Governor Ansar himself admitted that he was surprised to receive reports regarding the existence of several mosques and foundations that transferred some money through his personal account.

"The governor has received the following report as evidence of money transfers from a number of mosques and foundations through transfer facilities in mobile climbing," said Ansar.

Hasan stated that the mosque and foundation that transferred the money had previously been promised by an irresponsible person as a candidate for assistance from the Riau Islands Provincial Government. But as a condition, the mosque and foundation must first send some money to Governor Ansar.

He conveyed that the mosques and foundations that had transferred money through Governor Ansar's personal account were all in Batam City.

The mosques and foundations, namely the Al Islah Mosque worth Rp. 5 million, the Jami' Nurul Amanatul Haq Batam Mosque worth Rp. 5 million, and the Ukhuwah Islamiyah Foundation which twice made transactions, each worth Rp. 10 million and Rp. 15 million.

"This is not true. It is clearly a fraud," said Hasan.

Even if the Riau Islands Provincial Government will provide assistance, Hasan continued, of course it is purely as assistance that must go through the stipulated requirements and mechanisms. Starting from the proposal, feasibility as a recipient through a survey, to the availability of the budget.

"It is impossible to provide assistance by the Riau Islands Provincial Government by being lured by giving money first. Moreover, this concerns houses of worship," he said.

Hasan also reminded all parties to be more careful and first ensure before sending money related to this mode of fraud.

He asked the public who received a call from anyone on behalf of the Riau Islands Governor, Ansar Ahmad for a similar purpose, to immediately confirm with the Kesra Bureau at 0812-72-465, Riau Islands Diskominfo 0853-6109-4189 or the Riau Islands Governor's aide at 0852-6449-9323.

He also emphasized that the Riau Islands Governor would report this incident to the authorities as a form of belief that this was a fraud. Governor Ansar needs to confirm the truth of transactions and true account holders.

"This is a fraud and an attempt to defame the governor," Hasan asserted.