Former Ombudsman Chairman Charged with Accepting Rp4.8 Billion Bribe

Former Chairman of Indonesia's Ombudsman, Hery Susanto, faces charges of accepting approximately Rp4.8 billion (about $290,000 USD) in bribes. Prosecutors allege Susanto used his authority in ways contrary to regulations to benefit specific companies. The charges were detailed during the first trial hearing at the Corruption Eradication Court in Central Jakarta on Thursday, June 25.

The prosecution claims the bribes were solicited from PT Toshida Indonesia and PT Dinamika Sejahtera Mandiri. The funds were allegedly intended to persuade Susanto to declare the companies' state revenue payment obligations, related to forest area utilization permits, as administrative errors. Additionally, the bribes were reportedly aimed at securing Susanto's rejection of applications for increasing mining exploration permits to production operations for PT Mitra Kumala Energi and PT Gold Talenta Nala Raya, also classifying them as administrative misconduct.

“

Has received gifts or promises, in the form of receiving money and goods.

Prosecutors outlined at least six instances of alleged bribery. These included direct payments totaling Rp675 million from PT Toshida Indonesia's director, Rp200 million from PT Dinamika Sejahtera Mandiri's director, and substantial property and cash transfers from Agung Winarno, amounting to a house valued at Rp2.2 billion and Rp1.725 billion in cash. Further cash payments of Rp50 million were allegedly received through intermediaries. The total value of the alleged bribes, including the house, amounts to Rp4.85 billion. Susanto's alleged actions are considered a violation of Indonesia's laws against corruption, collusion, and nepotism, as well as specific regulations governing the Ombudsman's office and its code of ethics.

“

Whereas it is known or should be suspected that the gift or promise was given to influence whether or not to do something in his position.