KPK Alleges Central Mamberamo Regent Distributes Bribery Money To Singers And Private TV Presenters

Central Mamberamo Regent Ricky Ham Pagawak. (Antaranews)

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the flow of bribes from the Regent of Central Mamberamo Ricky Ham Pagawak to a number of parties, including public figures.

This allegation was investigated by examining Indonesian Idol singer Nowela Elisabet Mikelia Auparay and private television presenter Brigita Purnawati Manohara. Both were questioned on Friday, July 30, at the KPK's Merah Putih Building, Kuningan Persada, South Jakarta.

"The two witnesses present were confirmed, among other things, related to the alleged flow of money from the suspect RHP (Ricky Ham Pagawak) which was received by the two witnesses," said Acting KPK Spokesperson for Enforcement Sector Ali Fikri to reporters recently.

It was not specified how much money they received. However, from the examination, investigators also confirmed several findings, including financial documents.

Previously, Brigita Manohara admitted that she received IDR 480 million which she called appreciation money from Ricky and a communication consultant.

Meanwhile, Nowela, who is a singer, said that the money she received from Ricky was an honorarium after she appeared at the Democratic Party event. This Indonesian Idol singer admitted that she didn't know more about Ricky. His introduction is only limited to professionalism.

In this case, involving a public figure, the KPK continues to investigate allegations of bribery and gratification in Central Mamberamo. A number of witnesses have been called and searches have been carried out.

However, in the midst of this investigation, the Regent of Central Mamberamo Ricky Ham Pagawak fled. He fled to Papua New Guinea via an alternative way with the help of his aides.

The anti-corruption commission investigators are still pursuing Ricky. People who know about Ricky's whereabouts are asked to provide information through the 198 call center or can report to the police.