Officer cleared of theft accusation

Officer cleared of theft accusation

JAKARTA (JP): A police officer accused of stealing US$10,000
from the head of the National Police Directorate of Traffic,
Brig. Gen. Ansyar Roem, early this year has been cleared of the
charge and released from detention.

City police chief Maj. Gen. Noegroho Djajoesman said on Monday
that his office would fully restore First Sgt. Adi's reputation
within the force.

Adi, who was Ansyar's personal driver, was handed over to the
police internal affairs unit following the disappearance of the
money, which was to be exchanged into rupiah as part of the "I
Love Rupiah" drive on Jan. 28.

It is unclear whether the money was Ansyar's or from the
department.

"After being cross-examined several times in line with
standard investigative procedures for Armed Forces personnel, Adi
was proven to be not guilty. Therefore, he has been freed from
the accusation made by Ansyar Roem," Noegroho said.

"During the interrogation, Adi insisted that he did not steal
the money. He said Ansyar had jumped to an (incorrect)
conclusion," an officer, who asked for anonymity, said.

Adi's family had reportedly visited Noegroho before the
release, asking him to clarify Adi's status since it was not
clear whether the case had been closed or would be continued.

"The point is that we haven't found any proof that Adi was the
one who stole the money," Noegroho said. (edt)