The KPK Asks Director Alfamidi To Explain The Granting Of Branch Development Recommendations In Ambon

Illustration-(Photo: ANTARA DOC)

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the recommendation for the construction of the Alfamidi branch in Ambon. This step was taken by examining the Director of PT Midi Utama Indonesia (Alfamidi) Tbk., Suantopo Po on Friday, August 26. Head of the KPK News Section Ali Fikri said Suantopo was examined as a witness to the alleged bribery in the construction of the Alfamidi branch in Ambon in 2020. This case ensnared former Ambon Mayor Richard Louhenapessy. "The witness was present and an in-depth investigation was carried out through the knowledge of the witnesses, between the recommendations and approvals for the construction of the Alfamidi retail branch in Ambon City," Ali told reporters, Monday, August 29. In addition to Suantopo, the KPK also examined the Property development Director of PT. Midi Utama Indonesia, Tbk, Lilik Setiabudi. He was also examined as a witness and asked to explain the same thing by investigators. As previously reported, Richard and the administrative staff of the Ambon City Government leader Andrew Erin Hehanusa (AEH) were named as suspects for receiving bribes in the alleged bribery case related to licensing the principles of building retail branches in 2020 in Ambon City and receiving gratuities. Meanwhile, the bribe giver is Amri (AR) from the private sector or Alfamidi employees of Ambon City. Regarding the construction of the case, the KPK explained that in 2020 Richard, who served as Mayor of Ambon for the 2017-2022 period, had the authority, one of which was to approve a retail construction permit in Ambon City. In obtaining the permit, it is suspected that the suspect Amri was actively communicating until he held a meeting with Richard so that the licensing for the construction of the Alfamidi retail branch could be approved and issued immediately. Following up on the Amri application, Richard then ordered the Head of PUPR for the Ambon City Government to immediately process and issue various permit applications, including a license for a place of business (SITU) and a trading business license (SIUP). Regarding each approved and issued permit document, Richard requested that the transfer of money with a minimum value of Rp. 25 million using Andrew's bank account, which is Richard's confidant. As for the issuance of approval for the construction principles of 20 Alfamidi outlets, it is suspected that Richard received Rp500 million from Amri through Andrew's bank account. In addition, Richard is also suspected of receiving a flow of funds from various parties as gratuities.