TNI Members Who Help Central Mamberamo Regent Escape Will Be Called By KPK

Acting KPK Spokesperson for Enforcement Ali Fikri (Wardhany Tsa Tsia/VOI)

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will summon a member of the TNI with the rank of Military District Commander (Dandim) for questioning. The investigation was carried out because he was suspected of helping the Regent of Central Mamberamo Ricky Ham Pagawak escape to Papua New Guinea when he was about to be forcibly picked up.

"The ones summoned by the KPK, yes, one of them is the Dandim. But of course, the KPK has not been able to convey what was asked of the Indonesian Army (TNI)", said KPK Spokesperson for Enforcement Sector, Ali Fikri, to reporters at the KPK Rupbasan Building, Cawang, East Jakarta, Wednesday, August 10.

Ali did not specify when the summons would be made. He only said the summons could be made because of the assistance of the Army Chief of Staff (KSAD) General Dudung Abdurrachman.

"We have coordinated with the KSAD TNI regarding assistance in summoning two members. The latest information has been communication", he said.

Ali reminded anyone who was called to investigate the alleged bribery done by Ricky to be cooperative, including members of the TNI. They were asked to attend.

"KPK appreciates the cooperation and synergy. We will certainly convey the progress later", he said.

As previously reported, the KPK continues to investigate allegations of bribery and gratification in Central Mamberamo, Papua. Several witnesses have been called and searches have been carried out.

However, in the middle of the process, Ricky, who had not been announced as a suspect, ran away. He is said to have fled to Papua New Guinea by way of a rat with the help of several parties, including an aide and two members of the TNI.

Regarding the assistance provided by the TNI, the KPK said it had sent a letter to the Army Chief of Staff (KSAD) to coordinate to examine of the two members. Moreover, based on information circulating, a TNI soldier holds the rank of Dandim.

The KPK confirmed that it would continue to pursue Ricky. They did everything they could, including inviting people who knew Ricky's whereabouts to report to the 198 call center or inform the police.