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