Rice distribution scam probed

PALU, Central Sulawesi: The Central Sulawesi Supervisory Agency has been instructed to probe alleged irregularities in the distribution of some 170 tons of rice to poor families in Central Lore district.

Poso Regent Abdul Muin Pusadan had ordered the probe after receiving reports from former Central Lore district secretary Yusack Mentara.

Poso regency spokesman Abdul Haris Rengga said on Sunday that a special team was investigating the allegations. The result of the probe will be compared with Yusack's report.

According to Abdul Haris, Yusack alleged that irregularities had occurred involving the Central Lore district head who, he said, colluded with six heads of nearby villages.

A forum of villagers in Central Lore district had complained about alleged irregularities since early April to the regent, but there was no immediate response.

A source said officials with the local logistics agency were also involved in the alleged collusion. - Antara