Ex-regent faces graft charge

UJUNGPANDANG, South Sulawesi: Former Maros regent, identified only as NA by Antara, could face a life sentence for allegedly misusing Rp 1.4 billion (US$187,000) in state funds.

The deputy head of the provincial prosecutor's office, Mangellai, said the former regent had embezzled funds for public works projects, including the construction of his own office.

He also allegedly forced prospective haj pilgrims to pay additional costs before they could depart to the holy land in Saudi Arabia.

The prosecutor's office has seized his mansion worth more than Rp 1 billion, a Pajero jeep and his bank savings worth tens of million rupiah.

"We will deliver his dossier to the court soon," said Rasyid, the prosecutor's office's spokesman. (prb)