KPK Investigate Origin Of Ambon Mayor's Bribery From Alfamidi's Employees

Ali Fikri/Photo: Antara

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is examining a suspect named Amri, who is an employee of Alfamidi. He was asked to explain the origin of the bribes given to the inactive Ambon Mayor Richard Louhenapessy to facilitate the granting of permits to build Alfamidi outlets.

Acting KPK Spokesperson for Enforcement Ali Fikri said Amri was questioned on Tuesday, June 28. Richard's briber was examined as a witness.

"He was present and confirmed, among other things, regarding the alleged source of money earmarked for suspect RL," Ali told reporters in his written statement, Wednesday, June 29.

Ali did not specify the total amount of money given by Alfamidi to Richard. However, it is suspected that the money was given so that the permit for the outlet construction could be granted.

"So that the principle permit for the construction of retail branches in 2020 in Ambon City can be approved," he said.

As previously reported, Richard and administrative staff led by the Ambon City Government Andrew Erin Hehanusa (AEH) were named as suspects for receiving bribes in the alleged bribery case related to the licensing principle for the construction of retail branches in 2020 in Ambon City and receiving gratuities.

Meanwhile, as the giver of bribes is Amri (AR) from the private sector/employees of Alfamidi Ambon City.

Regarding the construction of the case, the KPK explained that in 2020 Richard, who served as Mayor of Ambon City for the 2017-2022 period, had the authority, one of which was to give approval for the principle permit for the construction of retail branches in Ambon City.

In the processing of the permit, it is suspected that the suspect Amri was actively communicating and held a meeting with Richard so that the permit for the construction of the Alfamidi retail branch could be immediately approved and issued.

Following up on Amri's request, Richard then ordered the Head of PUPR Office of the Ambon City Government to immediately process and issue various permit applications, including a place of business permit (SITU) and a trading business license (SIUP).

For each permit document that was approved and issued, Richard asked for the delivery of money with a minimum nominal value of Rp. 25 million using a bank account belonging to Andrew, who was Richard's confidant.

Specifically for the issuance of the approval in principle for the construction of 20 retail outlets, it is suspected that Amri gave Richard back around Rp500 million in stages through Andrew's bank account.

There are allegations that Richard received a number of funds from various parties as gratuities. The KPK investigation team will continue to investigate this further.