Authorities pursue scammers in SPPG fraud causing billions in losses

JAKARTA - Police and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) are pursuing scammers involved in the establishment of SPPG (Nutrition Service Units), following numerous reports of individuals being defrauded by false promises. BGN Deputy Head Sony Sonjaya disclosed public complaints about scams masquerading as free nutrition meals (MBG) kitchen construction projects. The perpetrators are currently being pursued with police assistance. ‘The Police MBG task force fully supports law enforcement against those misusing the MBG program to illicitly profit through illegal means,’ said Police MBG task force head, Inspector General Nurworo Danang, at Bareskrim headquarters in South Jakarta on Monday (25 May 2026). Sony and BGN officials visited Bareskrim to coordinate on widespread scam reports across various regions. ‘We have been coordinating with the Police MBG task force and Bareskrim regarding numerous reports from several areas where complainants are victims of scammers posing as BGN officials or close associates,’ Sony stated at Bareskrim in Jakarta yesterday. Sony explained that official MBG program registration is conducted by foundations via the mitra.bGN.go.id portal, not through alternative means. Foundations must submit legal documents including AHU number, NPWP, and NIB. Upon verification, foundations can then propose SPPG kitchen locations with design and land ownership documents. After passing the initial stage, participants must upload construction progress incrementally. However, Sony noted this process has been exploited by individuals to commit fraud. ‘They first register to obtain an SPPG ID. Once they receive the initial payment, they do not proceed with construction but instead offer their services as BGN officials or claim to have BGN connections, stating “I can help you” to facilitate the process. This is where the transactions occur,’ Sony explained.