Outrage! Suspected Involvement in Subsidised Fuel Mafia, 7 Police Officers in Sorong Under Investigation

Seven members of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) suspected of involvement in the misuse of subsidised fuel oil (BBM) in the Sorong city area are being examined by the Southwest Papua Regional Police (Polda PBD). Acting Head of Public Relations for Polda PBD, Police Commissioner Jenny Hengkelare, stated that the seven members, initialled W, AS, H, E, S, JT, and Y, are assigned to the Sorong Police Resort and Polda PBD. She explained that the case was uncovered following an admission from one of the legal representatives mentioning the involvement of several police officers in the misuse of subsidised BBM. “This uncovering is part of Polri’s commitment to firmly address the misuse of subsidised BBM, particularly in the Sorong city area,” she said, quoted on Thursday, 23 April 2026. The leadership of Polda PBD, she said, will not tolerate legal violations committed by internal members. “The Southwest Papua Police Chief has emphasised that Polri always strives to carry out duties professionally and proportionately. There is no tolerance for members involved in legal violations,” Jenny stated. Currently, the deepening and investigation of the case is being handled by the Regional Supervisory Inspectorate (Irwasda) and the Profession and Security Division (Div Propam) of Polda PBD. “We ensure that the handling of the case is carried out transparently and accountably. If proven guilty, the members will face firm sanctions in accordance with applicable regulations,” she said. In addition, Jenny urged the public to actively participate in monitoring the distribution of subsidised BBM to ensure it reaches the intended targets and is not misused by irresponsible parties. Jenny added that the high price disparity between subsidised and non-subsidised BBM currently provides an opportunity for certain individuals to gain illegal profits. This condition, she said, is also influenced by global dynamics, including the rise in world oil prices. Nevertheless, the government has decided not to increase subsidised BBM prices until the end of the year. “Therefore, supervision of subsidised BBM distribution is now being tightened to ensure it is distributed appropriately,” Jenny stated.