Central Mamberamo Regent Becomes Fugitive, KPK Examines Several People Allegedly Helping Escape

KPK Building/Photo: Antara

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named the Regent of Central Mamberamo Ricky Ham Pagawak as a fugitive in the case of alleged bribery and gratuities. In this case, Ricky has been named a suspect.

Acting KPK spokesman Ali Fikri revealed that there were allegations that a number of parties assisted in the escape of Ricky, who is currently fleeing to Papua New Guinea. The KPK also investigated several people suspected of helping Ricky escape.

"To reveal the whereabouts of the suspect, the investigation team has summoned and questioned various parties, including those closest to the suspect who are suspected of having helped in the escape of the suspect," Ali told reporters on Monday, July 18.

Ali said that currently the investigation team is still analyzing various statements from a number of parties being examined.

Furthermore, Ali emphasized that if there are people who are proven to have intentionally helped Ricky escape from the KPK, they will also be subject to a criminal article for obstructing the case investigation process.

Article 21 of the Corruption Law (UU Tipikor) states that people who intentionally prevent, hinder, or thwart directly or indirectly the investigation, prosecution, and examination at the trial of a defendant in a corruption case can be sentenced to a minimum of three years. and a maximum of 12 years and a maximum fine of Rp. 600 million.

"With this DPO status, the KPK urges people who know of its whereabouts to immediately report it to the KPK or other officials so that an arrest can be made immediately," said Ali.

For information, the KPK is currently investigating allegations of bribery and project gratification in the Central Mamberamo District Government. The investigative team scheduled a second summons for Ricky, who has now been named a suspect, to appear at the KPK's Red and White building in Jakarta on Thursday, July 14.

However, Ricky was not present to fulfill the summons without a valid legal basis. The KPK investigation team considered this a form of uncooperative action.

The KPK then made an attempt to force Ricky to go to Papua. However, there Ricky was not found. Ricky allegedly fled before the KPK found him. The KPK has also included Ricky's name on the wanted list (DPO) and made him a fugitive by the KPK.