Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s Trade Minister (Kemendag), Budi Santoso, has praised Pertamina Patra Niaga for sealing off a gas station in Sleman, Yogyakarta, following allegations of consumers fraud by tampering fuel pump. The investigation at Station 44.555.08 on Kaliurang Toll Road uncovered a device allegedly installed to manipulate fuel measurements.
The irregularities came to light after public complaints prompted an inspection by Pertamina Patra Niaga and the Ministry of Trade. Tests, including meter calibration and density checks, revealed that the fuel dispensed was consistently under-measured.
According to Budi, inspectors discovered a circuit board device, or PCB, installed within the fuel pump system to alter the output. The station violated legal metrology regulations by manipulating the dispensing system, shorting customers an average of 600 milliliters for every 20 liters of fuel purchased.
“This fraudulent practice has cost consumers an estimated Rp1.4 billion ($91,000) annually,” Budi stated during his visit to the sealed station on Monday, November 25.
The station has been temporarily closed as investigations continue. Authorities warned that permanent closure is on the table if fraud is confirmed.
Budi emphasized the importance of compliance with metrology standards across the country. He announced plans for increased inspections of gas stations nationwide to protect consumers, particularly during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays.
“We are conducting similar inspections across Indonesia. This instance was uncovered in Yogyakarta, and we hope it’s an isolated case. If not, similar actions will follow elsewhere,” he added.
Crackdown on Fraudulent Gas Stations
Pertamina, Indonesia’s state-owned energy company, previously reported that four gas stations in Yogyakarta have been shut down due to suspected fraudulent practices. Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of consumer losses.
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“One station has been confirmed guilty of fraudulent practices and has been sanctioned. Three others are under investigation,” said Pertamina Patra Niaga Corporate Secretary Heppy Wulansari in a statement released Wednesday, November 20.
This crackdown is part of Pertamina Patra Niaga’s broader efforts to prepare for the increased fuel demand during the holiday season. Heppy confirmed that inspections would expand to high-demand areas across Indonesia.
“We are conducting thorough audits, starting in Yogyakarta, and will extend them to regions expected to experience a surge in fuel needs during Christmas and New Year,” she added.
The investigation highlights the government and Pertamina’s commitment to protecting consumers from such fraud and maintaining trust in the fuel distribution system within all gas station.
(Raidi/Agung)
