Indonesia arrests officials in 12 billion USD corruption case

They are accused of working together between 2018 and 2023 to import crude from overseas suppliers at higher prices rather than source it domestically as mandated by Indonesian law.

Seven suspects, including at least four Pertamina officials, were arrested on February 24. (Photo: Reuters)
Seven suspects, including at least four Pertamina officials, were arrested on February 24. (Photo: Reuters)

Jakarta (VNA) – The Indonesian Attorney General’s Office has arrested several executives at units of state-owned energy firm PT Pertamina on charges of alleged corruption related to oil imports that cost the state 12 billion USD.

Seven suspects, including at least four Pertamina officials, were arrested on February 24, it said in a statement.

They are accused of working together between 2018 and 2023 to import crude from overseas suppliers at higher prices rather than source it domestically as mandated by Indonesian law.

When compared to the production price of domestic crude oil, the price of the imported goods showed a significant price component disparity. Due to the law-breaking acts, the country has suffered losses amounting to 193.7 trillion IDR (11.85 billion USD), the statement said.

The suspects face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty and a fine of 1 billion IDR (61,000 USD)./.

VNA

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