Companies alleged in fuel fraud

Companies alleged in fuel fraud

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: The provincial legislature revealed
on Saturday the involvement of three fuel delivery companies and
a gas station in the distribution of a blend of gasoline
kerosene, and diesel fuel.

Councilor Ambas Syam told The Jakarta Post that he suspected
the fraud was committed by a syndicate which apparently involved
local police and the nation-gas provider PT Pertamina.

"It could become a national case," Ambas said.

Ambas said that owners of fuel delivery companies PT Ira
Sitaba Utama, PT Nurul Hasanah, PT Karya Manunggal and Mandai gas
station have been questioned by police. He added several
councilors had received threats to close the case.

"But, we won't step back," Ambas said.

The case was unveiled last week when the local branch of the
Indonesian Consumers' Foundation told police about the illicit
practices.

Chief of Makassar Police Col. Aryanto Budihardjo said the
police had collected enough evidence to bring the case to trial.
(01/27)