BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The Regional Police of the Riau Islands (Polda Kepri), through its Directorate of Special Criminal Investigation (Ditreskrimsus), has uncovered an alleged case of subsidized fuel abuse in Batam involving Pertalite gasoline and diesel fuel. The case emerged following public complaints regarding irregularities in fuel distribution.
Investigation Triggered by Public Report
The case first came to light on Monday, April 13, 2026, after residents reported suspicious activities in the distribution of government-subsidized fuel. Acting on the information, investigators from the Tipidter Sub-Directorate immediately launched a comprehensive probe that later escalated into a formal criminal investigation.
"The investigation team followed up on the information received and has moved the case into the formal investigation stage," said Head of Criminal Investigation, Senior Commissioner Silvester Mangombo Marusaha Simamora, on Friday (April 17, 2026).
Authorities confirmed that the case is currently supported by three police reports (LP) and one additional intelligence report still under further examination.
CASE BRIEFING: Head of Criminal Investigation at Polda Kepri, Senior Commissioner Silvester Mangombo Marusaha Simamora, explains the findings of the fuel subsidy fraud investigation in Batam. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Fraud Scheme Involving Official Recommendation Letters
Investigators revealed that the suspects used official recommendation documents to purchase subsidized fuel at several gas stations across Batam. The affected stations include locations in Tembesi, Sungai Harapan, and Jalan Gajah Mada in Sekupang District.
The fuel was then resold at significantly higher prices than the government-regulated rate. Pertalite, purchased at around IDR 10,000 per liter, was resold for approximately IDR 15,000 per liter. Meanwhile, diesel bought at IDR 6,800 per liter was resold between IDR 10,000 and IDR 12,000 per liter.
SEIZED EVIDENCE: Police display confiscated evidence, including subsidized gasoline and diesel fuel seized from the suspects during the operation. (PHOTO: Dalil Harahap)
Three Arrested, Major Evidence Seized
Police have arrested three suspects identified by their initials HM, TS, and DS. Officers also confiscated several vehicles, including pickup trucks and a cargo truck allegedly used in fuel transportation.
Evidence secured includes three pickup trucks, dozens of plastic jerry cans, approximately 1,452 liters of Pertalite, 1,056 liters of diesel, official recommendation letters from the Batam Transportation Agency, power-of-attorney documents, cash, and several mobile phones.
A separate cargo crane truck containing around 2,000 liters of diesel was also discovered. However, this finding is still under review and has not yet been confirmed as a criminal offense under energy law.
The suspects are charged under Article 40 Number 9 of Law No. 22/2001 on Oil and Natural Gas in conjunction with Article 55 of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP). Investigations are ongoing to identify additional individuals involved in the subsidy fraud network. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Dalil Harahap | EDITOR: Fik Sagala