Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) disclosed that Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs staff, implicated in online gambling, attempted to mislead authorities by sending falsified bank account details.

“They tried to hide their real accounts by submitting altered ones,” said PPATK Chief Ivan Yustiawandana on Thursday (7/11/2024).

The Communication Ministry staff allegedly used fake account numbers to avoid detection, initially masking gambling-related transactions. However, PPATK's investigation later revealed the actual accounts linked to these activities, according to antaranews.com.

“Fortunately, our processes are thorough and accountable,” Ivan added, emphasizing PPATK's commitment to tracking illicit funds.

In response, legislator Stevano Rizki Adranacus from the House’ of Representatives (DPR)s Commission III called on PPATK to ensure its ranks are free from those supporting online gambling. He raised concerns over the involvement of public officials, urging stronger collaboration to tackle illegal gambling networks.

The Jakarta Metro Jaya Regional Police have since named two more suspects from the Communication Ministry to their wanted list in connection with the ongoing investigation.  The police has so far arrested 15 suspects in this case.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)