Former Surabaya Zoo Director Named Suspect in Rp10.2 Billion Corruption Case

Surabaya's zoo is embroiled in a corruption scandal as its former director, Choirul Anwar, faces charges for allegedly embezzling Rp10.2 billion. The alleged misuse of funds, spanning from 2016 to 2024, has led to significant financial losses for the state-owned enterprise, Perusahaan Daerah Taman Satwa Kebun Binatang Surabaya (PD TS KBS).

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We have named one suspect, namely with the initials CA as the Director Utama of Perusahaan Daerah Taman Satwa Kebun Binatang Surabaya.

The investigation, led by the East Java High Prosecutor's Office, revealed that Anwar, in his role as Director Utama, is accused of inflating the budget for animal feed and diverting approximately Rp7.4 billion for personal use. This alleged corruption has had a visible impact on the zoo's conditions, with reports of neglected facilities, unclean environments, and animals suffering from poor health and malnutrition.

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This act has resulted in state financial losses for PD TS KBS of approximately Rp10,209,664,735.60. This is based on the results of a preliminary calculation with BPKP East Java Province.

Despite the dire financial situation and its effects on the animals, Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi confirmed that since late 2023 and into 2024, there have been no animal deaths or significant health problems. He attributed this to improved management, though the extent of the alleged corruption's long-term consequences remains a concern for the beloved Surabaya Zoo.

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Yes, of the Rp10.2 billion, around Rp7.4 billion was used for personal interests. We will convey it, but we have obtained evidence, we have investigated, and it was also used for personal interests.