Thekabarnews.com—The Attorney General’s Office of Indonesia has widened its investigation into an alleged corruption case involving the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). Now, it is targeting private-sector companies. Three former senior officials of the agency were named and detained by it previously.

The ongoing investigation now includes Yenna Yuniana, who is identified as the beneficial owner of PT Yasa Artha Trimanunggal (YAT). This inquiry is as part of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes.

Authorities said investigators questioned her over allegations of budget mark-ups in the procurement of operational electric motorcycles worth about Rp1 trillion (around US$61 million).

The vehicles were allegedly meant to support the government’s flagship program, the Free Meals (MBG) program.

The Attorney General’s Office has broadened the investigation into the procurement process. It now includes the possible involvement of private companies and compliance with Indonesia’s procurement regulations.

Investigators are examining financial transactions, procurement processes, and contractual arrangements related to the project. The goal is to determine whether any criminal violations occurred.

Authorities are still questioning Yenna Yuniana as a witness at this stage. However, prosecutors have not yet announced any charges against her.

Officials said the investigation is continuing. PT Yasa Artha Trimanunggal has drawn public attention because of its involvement in the large-scale procurement project.

The company’s business is in the logistics and distribution industry in Indonesia. It has also expanded into the air transportation services industry to enhance connectivity to remote areas.

The procurement of electric motorcycles was part of the wider operational support for the MBG program. This is a flagship initiative of President Prabowo Subianto to improve children’s nutrition across the country.

But allegations of inflated procurement costs have led investigators to look into whether the project’s implementation complied with relevant financial and procurement rules.

The Attorney General’s Office stated that investigators will continue probing the flow of funds. Additionally, they will examine the decision-making process of the procurement contracts.

Prosecutors are also examining documents related to vendor selection, pricing mechanisms, and project implementation.

The probe followed the previous detention of three former BGN leaders in connection with the management of the agency’s procurement operations.

Authorities have stressed that all suspects still enjoy the presumption of innocence. This presumption remains until a court issues a final and legally binding verdict.

The case highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the administration of strategic national programs funded by the public.

The MBG program is one of Indonesia’s biggest social welfare programs. The government spends a lot of money on nutrition, logistics, and operational infrastructure.

Given the scale of the program, strict oversight of procurement processes will be important to maintain public confidence. This is also necessary to ensure effective use of state finances.

The Attorney General’s Office reiterated its commitment to thoroughly investigate everyone who may have played a role in the case. It also promised to ensure that all legal processes followed Indonesian law.

Stay connected via Google News