Tom Lembong Accused of Involvement in Sugar Import Corruption: Profits at Stake
In a recent development, the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has promised to reveal the profits gained by former Trade Minister Tom Lembong in the case of sugar import corruption at the Ministry of Trade during the 2015-2016 period.
Unraveling the Allegations
Director of Investigation at the Attorney General’s Office of the Republic of Indonesia, Abdul Qohar, stated that the profits obtained by Tom Lembong in the case will be disclosed once it reaches the trial stage.
Qohar emphasized that all details regarding Lembong’s gains would be unveiled during the court proceedings, urging patience from the public. He also clarified that certain technical aspects of the investigation could not be disclosed to the public until the trial.
Abuse of Authority and Financial Losses
Tom Lembong is accused of abusing his authority by granting permits for sugar crystal imports to nine private companies. Qohar highlighted that the permits issued by Lembong did not comply with existing regulations, resulting in a financial loss of Rp 578 billion according to the calculations by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPKP).
Legal Ramifications and New Suspects
Previously, the AGO had designated former Trade Minister Tom Lembong as a suspect in the sugar import case at the Ministry of Trade from 2015-2016. Additionally, the AGO had also identified the former Director of PT Indonesian Trading Company (PPI) with the initials CS as a suspect.
In a recent development, the Attorney General’s Office has named nine new suspects in the case. These individuals, including directors of various companies, are now under investigation for their alleged involvement in the corruption scandal.
Following their designation as suspects, seven out of the nine individuals have been detained at the South Jakarta District Attorney’s Branch Detention Center for the next 20 days. Efforts are underway to locate the remaining two suspects who failed to appear for questioning.
The investigators have charged all nine suspects with violations of specific sections of the Indonesian Criminal Code related to corruption.
This case sheds light on the pervasive issue of corruption in Indonesia and underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their position or influence. The investigation into Tom Lembong and the other suspects serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and uphold the rule of law in the country.
