Police Name 19 Suspects Of Misappropriation Of Subsidized Fuel, Seek Profits Through Price Disparities

JAKARTA - The National Police Headquarters arrested 19 suspects in the case of alleged misappropriation of subsidized fuel oil (BBM). Dozens of suspects were arrested in 6 areas.

"We have arrested approximately 19 suspects in 6 regions," said National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo to reporters, Friday, April 8.

The suspects took advantage of the price disparity between subsidized diesel and industry which reached Rp12,500. They use it for personal gain.

"We found it was misused by certain community groups who then took advantage of the price disparity," said Sigit

Actions against individuals who try to play with the availability of fuel will continue to be carried out. Thus, the stock of subsidized fuel will be safe for the community.

What's more, the community is in dire need of fuel to rebuild their businesses. Where, for almost two years, Indonesia has been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The distribution or allocation of subsidized fuel can really be given to people who need subsidies," said Sigit.

The National Police through six Polda began to investigate the alleged criminal acts behind the scarcity of fuel oil (BBM). The collection of evidence and clues was carried out.

"Six Regional Police are investigating the case, namely West Sumatra, Jambi, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, Bali and Gorontalo," said Head of the Public Relations Division of the National Police Inspector General Dedi Prasetyo.

For the investigation process carried out by the West Sumatra Police based on a police report. Where, the modus operandi is reported by means of transportation and buying and selling of subsidized fuel.

Meanwhile, the Jambi Regional Police handled eight police reports related to alleged criminal acts related to BBM. Then, the South Kalimantan Police received seven police reports.

Furthermore, the East Kalimantan Police, the Bali Police, and the Gorontalo Police each handled one police report.

"All the reports have a modus operandi of transporting and buying and selling subsidized fuel," said Dedi.

In the investigation process, the police applied Article 40 point 9 of Law Number 11 of 2020 concerning Job Creation, Amendment to Article 55 of Law Number 22 of 2001 concerning Oil and Gas. With a maximum imprisonment of six years and a maximum fine of Rp. 60 billion.