ICW reports graft case in 'TVRI'

ICW reports graft case in 'TVRI'

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) reported state-run television TVRI on Thursday to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in connection with allegations of markups that reportedly cost the taxpayer some Rp 7.2 billion (US$720,000).

The markups were connected with procurements by the broadcasting company in 2004.

"The procurements were valued at a total of Rp 16.9 billion, but after an investigation it was found that only Rp 9.7 billion was actually paid out. So, there are indications that the amounts involved were marked up by around 74 percent," ICW deputy coordinator Lucky Djani said.

He was speaking to journalists at the KPK offices in Central Jakarta, where he reported the graft allegations.

Lucky said that markups were found in the procurement of mini DV camcoders and equipment for TVRI's auditorium.

"The price of the mini DV camcoders was marked up by Rp 2 billion, while that of the auditorium equipment was marked up by more than Rp 5.2 billion," he added.

He said the alleged corruption showed that the state-owned television station was in a mess.

The ICW doubts the credibility of companies participating in tenders to supply broadcasting equipment and other materials to TVRI.

However, Lucky refrained from giving the names of the TVRI suppliers.

The anticorruption watchdog urged the KPK to thoroughly investigate the allegations, and to carry out an audit on the company's 2004 accounts.

It also urged the government to investigate all irregularities at the station and to take action against its management.