Published on: October 20, 2023, 10:58h.
Last updated on: October 20, 2023, 10:58h.
Lukas Enembe, the former governor of the Indonesian state of Papua, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for embezzling government funds. The Jakarta Globe reports that Enembe used some of the embezzled funds for a luxurious gambling lifestyle, including trips to Singapore and Australia.
Enembe’s embezzlement and extravagant spending on gambling have come to light, resulting in his prison sentence. The court has ordered him to pay IDR19.7 billion (US$1.2 million) in restitution, with the possibility of an extended sentence if he fails to comply.
During his tenure, Enembe accepted bribes from private companies in exchange for approving contracts. He received at least IDR47 billion (US$2.96 million) from these illicit payments. Although the judge rejected the prosecution’s request for full repayment, Enembe’s corruption has been exposed.
Corruption Exposed
Enembe also faces money laundering charges. Authorities have seized IDR82 billion (US$5.16 million) related to the case, revealing a web of financial improprieties. These charges shed light on the extent of Enembe’s corruption and the elaborate measures used to conceal his illicit gains.
It is believed that Enembe transferred some of the stolen funds into the bank accounts of his relatives, including his wife and son. These accounts have been frozen by the government, and Enembe’s requests to reverse the orders have been denied.
Indonesia’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center investigated Enembe’s financial records and discovered substantial and questionable payments. Since 2017, he has made at least SGD55 million (US$39 million) in transactions with foreign casinos.
In addition to these transactions, Enembe made several visits to Crown Resorts properties in Australia, with authorities finding questionable deposits he allegedly made to Crown Perth.
These revelations came to light after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) requested a thorough examination of Enembe’s financial records. A provincial governor’s monthly salary is typically around IDR3 million (US$188.91), making these payments highly suspicious.
An egregious example highlighted by the financial watchdog was a single casino payment of SGD5 million (US$3.46 million). These findings expose the depth of Enembe’s involvement in high-stakes gambling activities, underscoring the extent of his financial misconduct.
End of Political Career
Even if Enembe were to be released from prison and desire to return to politics, he would be prohibited from holding any public office for five years following his release, rendering his political career effectively over.
Throughout his trial, Enembe repeatedly proclaimed his innocence and tried to sway the court. His lack of respect for the court, as perceived by the judge, may have played a role in the sentencing.
Enembe’s defense team has stated that they may appeal the decision. Meanwhile, the court has ordered the confiscation and sale of his property to cover the restitution owed.