Account Block by Bank Mandiri Sparks Legal and Rights Concerns

The blocking of an account belonging to Supriyono, the coordinator of the Alliance of United Pati People (AMPB), has drawn criticism and raised questions about banking procedures in Indonesia. Bank Mandiri stated that the account was frozen upon the request of law enforcement authorities and that the action was carried out in accordance with applicable procedures and regulations.

However, legal experts emphasize that banks cannot arbitrarily block customer accounts without a valid legal basis. Syukrian Rahmatul'ula, a lawyer from ILS Law Firm, explained that such an action, if done without proper notification and a legitimate reason, could be considered an unlawful act, potentially leading to civil litigation. He cited Article 1365 of the Indonesian Civil Code, which stipulates that anyone causing harm through an unlawful act must compensate the victim.

Syukrian clarified that banks are permitted to block accounts without prior notification under specific circumstances. These include orders from investigators, prosecutors, or courts in criminal cases, or requests from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) concerning suspected money laundering activities. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) can also order a block if the account is linked to violations of banking regulations.

Despite these legal avenues, a coalition of civil society groups has condemned the blocking of Supriyono's account. They argue that the action potentially violates the law, obstructs freedom of expression, and erodes public confidence in the security of their funds within the banking system. They assert that banks must exercise caution when executing orders from authorities and should not misuse their power to block accounts.