Asset Tracing Drive Gains Momentum in Nadiem Corruption Case
Jakarta, VIVA - The case of alleged criminal acts of corruption involving former minister Nadiem Makarim has attracted serious attention from various quarters. Asset Recovery expert Chuck Suryosumpeno notes that the case falls into the category of white-collar crime, which has complex characteristics and broad impact. Suryosumpeno, who previously served as President of Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network-Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP), explained that white-collar crime is typically committed by individuals holding strategic positions, high social status, or trusted within organizational or governmental structures.
According to him, the alleged corruption offences attributed to Nadiem represent a non-violent crime but cause substantial financial losses through abuse of power and various deceitful tactics. “The main characteristic of white-collar crime is that it is carried out without physical violence, yet its impact can be very large because it targets the financial system and abuse of office,” Chuck said on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
He explained that perpetrators in this category are usually professionals who have exclusive access to the financial system or important information. By leveraging a position or specific expertise, the crime can be carried out covertly and is often only uncovered after a long period.
Chuck added that white-collar crime is systematic and far-reaching, not only causing losses to the state but also eroding public trust and the stability of the economy and society.
Owing to its complexity, handling such cases requires technical approaches involving a range of expertise, such as forensic auditing and analysis of financial data. “Specialist skills that involve many disciplines are needed, particularly forensic auditing and financial data analysis, as well as other related expertise,” he said.
On the other hand, Chuck also praised the steps taken by the Attorney General’s Office of the Republic of Indonesia, especially the Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus), for what is deemed a successful uncovering of the case. Nevertheless, he stressed the importance of promptly conducting asset tracing as part of the effort to recover state losses.
“I appreciate Jampidsus and its ranks for their success in uncovering this case. However, it is time to immediately undertake asset tracing of the proceeds of crime as an initial stage of asset recovery alongside the investigation and prosecution process,” he said.