PBD Police Investigate 7 Police Allegedly Involved in Subsidized Fuel Mafia

Acting Head of Public Relations of the West Papua Barat Daya Police, Kompol Jenny Hengkelare. ANTARA/HO-Public Relations of the West Papua Barat Daya Police

JAKARTA - The South West Papua Regional Police (Polda PBD) has examined seven members of the National Police who are suspected of abusing subsidized fuel oil (BBM) in the Sorong City area.

Acting Head of Public Relations of the PBD Police, Kompol Jenny Hengkelaremen, said that the seven members, each with the initials W, AS, H, E, S, JT, and Y, were serving at the Sorong Police and the PBD Police.

Jenny said the disclosure of this case was after a confession from one of the lawyers who mentioned the involvement of a number of police officers in the misuse of subsidized fuel.

"This disclosure is part of the commitment of the National Police in taking firm action against the misuse of subsidized fuel, especially in the Sorong City area," he said.

The head of the PBD Police, he said, would not tolerate violations of the law committed by internal figures.

"The West Papua Police Chief has emphasized that the National Police always strives to carry out its duties professionally and proportionately. There is no tolerance for members who are involved in violations of the law," said Jenny as reported by ANTARA, Wednesday, April 22.

Currently, the in-depth process and investigation of the case is being handled by the Regional Supervisory Inspectorate (Irwasda) and the Professional and Security Division (Div Propam) of the PBD Police.

"We ensure that the handling of cases is carried out transparently and accountable. If found guilty, the individuals will be subject to strict sanctions in accordance with applicable regulations," he said.

In addition, Jenny asked the public to play an active role in overseeing the distribution of subsidized fuel so that it is targeted and not misused by irresponsible parties.

Jenny added that the high price disparity between subsidized and non-subsidized fuels is currently a gap that can be used by certain individuals to illegally reap profits.

This condition is also, he said, influenced by global dynamics, including the rise in world oil prices. However, the government has decided not to raise the price of subsidized fuel until the end of the year.

"Therefore, supervision of the distribution of subsidized fuel is now being tightened to ensure that the distribution is targeted," said Jenny.