Transparency and Accountability Key in Handling BNI Customer Funds Case

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Financial consultant and planner Elvi Diana views transparency in investigations and management accountability as crucial in handling the case of customer funds at the Auxiliary Branch Office (KCP) of PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk in Aek Nabara, North Sumatra.

Elvi, in a written statement in Jakarta on Sunday, explained that both elements are needed not only to resolve the matter but also to restore public trust in the banking industry.

The reported missing funds are known to belong to church members in the local area.

Elvi stated that bank customers should receive full protection, making this case a reminder to strengthen oversight systems and consumer protection in the financial services sector.

Therefore, she continued, resolving the case should not stop at merely returning customer funds.

The handling process also needs to be conducted openly and accountably so that the public gains clarity on the cause of the incident, the responsible parties, and the corrective actions to be taken.

In that context, she encourages strengthening the role of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) as regulator and supervisor.

She believes this case highlights gaps in internal bank oversight that need immediate evaluation.

Elvi also highlighted the importance of implementing dual control and due diligence in every banking transaction, especially those related to customer fund placements, whether in conventional investments or other investment instruments.

She urges a comprehensive evaluation of operational procedures and internal control systems, particularly at the branch level.

Previously, OJK stated that it had summoned BNI’s directors and management to request explanations and emphasised that resolution steps be carried out quickly, thoroughly, transparently, and responsibly regarding the customer funds case at KCP Aek Nabara.

BNI’s directors have targeted the return of funds to affected members of the Aek Nabara Parish Credit Union (CU), impacted by alleged fund misappropriation of around Rp28 billion, to be completed this week.