Modus Operandi of Subsidised Fuel and LPG Misuse: From "Helicopter" to Collusion with SPBU Insiders
JAKARTA - Bareskrim Polri has revealed a range of modus operandi employed by perpetrators involved in the misuse of subsidised fuel (BBM) and LPG.
Direktur Tindak Pidana Tertentu Bareskrim Polri Brigjen Pol Mohammad Irhamni stated that one commonly used method is the repeated purchase of subsidised diesel at various fuel stations (SPBU).
The fuel is then collected and stockpiled at depots before being distributed to nearby industries.
“(This practice) is commonly known in Jakarta as ‘helicopter’. In regions like Sumatra or Bangka Belitung, it might be called ‘ngoret’,” Irhamni said during a press conference at Bareskrim Polri on Tuesday (21/4/2026).
The subsidised fuel purchased is stockpiled and resold at non-subsidised prices.
“Purchasing subsidised BBM using fake number plates to avoid government monitoring, in this case by Pertamina,” he explained.
“Thus, the perpetrators can make multiple purchases by switching vehicles or barcodes, which are actually security measures for Pertamina’s oversight,” he added.
Additionally, there are practices involving collusion with rogue SPBU staff to obtain larger BBM quotas.
Bareskrim emphasised that it will firmly prosecute all involved parties, including officials or civil servants, using corruption offence articles to create a deterrent effect and trace the perpetrators’ assets.
These practices are rampant in areas surrounding Jakarta because distribution can easily reach industrial zones, restaurants, and hotels.
Previously reported, the Direktorat Tindak Pidana Tertentu (Dittipidter) Bareskrim Polri uncovered cases of BBM and subsidised LPG misuse in several regions across Indonesia.
Wakil Bareskrim Polri Irjen Nunung Syaifuddin stated that the case revelations occurred over 13 days, from 7 to 20 April 2026, with state losses reaching over Rp 243 billion.
“The criminal act of misusing BBM and LPG has caused state financial losses of approximately Rp 243,669,600,800 in 13 days,” Nunung said during a press conference at Bareskrim Polri, South Jakarta, on Tuesday (21/4/2026).