Febrie Adriansyah, Indonesia’s Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, resigned Saturday following a police raid that uncovered $29.6 million USD in gold bars and foreign currency. The resignation comes as the Jakarta Metropolitan Police investigate Adriansyah and a private sector figure, identified by the initials DR, for their alleged involvement in the Sumatra Blackout Probe, a corruption and money laundering scandal linked to coal procurement for steam power plants.
The Sumatra Blackout Probe and Alleged Corruption
The investigation centers on the procurement of coal supplies for steam power plants between 2018 and 2026. Authorities allege that this corruption is suspected to have triggered power outages or blackouts causing damages estimated at Rp 5 trillion, or approximately $275 million USD.
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have detained DR, a figure widely believed to be Don Ritto, a lawyer and owner of a private law firm. Adriansyah faces accusations of violating Article 3 and 4 of the Money Laundering Law, as well as Article 607 of the New Criminal Code. These laws penalize the handling or concealment of assets reasonably suspected to be the proceeds of criminal activity.
Did You Know?
While Indonesian lawmakers have publicly called for the death penalty in this case due to how many people have been impacted by the alleged corruption, the country has not executed a death sentence since 2016, when four individuals were executed in relation to drug crimes.
Legal Consequences and Official Response
The Office of the Attorney General of Indonesia confirmed it accepted Adriansyah’s resignation on Saturday. In a formal statement, the office characterized the move as a commitment to maintaining the “integrity, objectivity, and neutrality” of the ongoing investigation led by the National Police.
Each of the charges brought against Adriansyah carries a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary allegation against Febrie Adriansyah?
Adriansyah is accused of participating in a corruption and money laundering scandal related to the procurement of coal for steam power plants between 2018 and 2026.
What was discovered during the police raid?
Police uncovered a safe containing $29.6 million USD in gold bars and foreign currency.
What is the potential maximum sentence for these charges?
Adriansyah faces a maximum of 15 years imprisonment for each of the offenses under the Money Laundering Law and the New Criminal Code.
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