Checks Bintan Regent Inactive, KPK Explores Proposal For Quotas For Cigarettes And Alcohol Drinks

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the proposal for a quota of cigarettes and alcoholic beverages for BP Bintan.

This was done by examining the inactive Bintan Regent Apri Sujadi and the Acting Head of the Bintan Free Trade Area and Free Port Concession Agency, Mohd Saleh H Umar on Wednesday, September 1.

This investigation was carried out in connection with the investigation into alleged corruption in the regulation of excisable goods in the management of the Free Trade Area and Free Port (KPBPB) of Bintan Regency 2016-2018.

"AS and MSU have each been examined in their capacity as suspects," said Acting KPK Spokesperson for Enforcement, Ali Fikri, to reporters quoted on Thursday, September 2.

"The investigative team confirmed, among other things, related to the authority of the position and also regarding the proposed quota of cigarettes and quotas for MMEA (drinks containing ethyl alcohol) for BP Bintan," he added.

Ali said investigators extended their detention for another 40 days until October 10. This was done because the filing of Apri and Mohd Saleh had not been completed.

The two suspects, he continued, were detained in two different remand centers. Sujadi is being held at the KPK Rutan in the Red and White Building while Mohd Saleh is being held at the KPK Rutan Kavling C1.

"The filing of the cases of the suspects is still continuing, including the agenda for summoning and examining witnesses related to this case," said Ali.

Previously reported, suspect Apri Sujadi from 2017 to 2018 was suspected of receiving around Rp. 6.3 billion of money from his corruption.

Meanwhile, his subordinate, Mohd Saleh Umar, received Rp800 million. As a result, the actions of the suspects are alleged to have harmed state finances of up to Rp250 billion.