Police Investigate Alleged Coal Corruption Causing Rp5 Trillion in State Losses

The Corruption Eradication Corps of the Indonesian National Police has officially elevated the handling of alleged corruption and money laundering in coal procurement and supply for steam power plants to the investigation stage. The decision was made after investigators found sufficient preliminary evidence of criminal activity. Head of the Corruption Eradication Corps, Inspector General Totok Suharyanto, stated that the investigation follows the collection of documents, witness interviews, and initial analysis of evidence. The case involves alleged irregularities in the procurement and fulfilment of coal supply for power plants between 2018 and 2026. Director of Investigation Brigadier General Roberthus Yohanes De Deo Tresna Eka Trimana revealed that the alleged modus operandi includes manipulation of coal quality and quantity documents, as well as supply deviations causing payments not to reflect actual conditions. These actions are suspected to have disrupted coal supply to power plants, leading to blackouts in several regions, including parts of Sumatra, Kalimantan, Central Java, East Java, and Greater Jakarta. The preliminary indication of state and economic losses is estimated at around Rp5 trillion, though the final figure awaits an official investigative audit by the Supreme Audit Agency. Investigators are also tracing money flows and assets suspected to originate from the criminal activities, with the aim of optimising asset recovery. The police have questioned 16 parties so far and are exploring the possible involvement of other individuals and corporations. The Criminal Investigation Department has pledged full support, including technical assistance on mining aspects, to ensure a professional, transparent, and accountable investigation.