Govt OKs probe into police purchases

Govt OKs probe into police purchases

JAKARTA: The government will allow the House of
Representatives to set up an inquiry into alleged violations in
the purchase of 17 helicopters and two aircraft by the National
Police from the United States.

Vice President Hamzah Haz told reporters the government would
go along with the House if this would help resolve the dispute.

Hamzah was commenting on House legislators who questioned the
police's decision to buy aircraft from the U.S., which has
imposed an embargo on the purchase of offensive military
equipment by Indonesia.

"The House has the right to probe the purchases, but I believe
the police have already considered all the cost benefits
involved," Hamzah said.

National Police chief Gen. Da'i Bachtiar has denied the House
allegations, saying the purchase of the aircraft had followed the
proper procedures. -- Antara