Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Hendry Lie, a senior executive linked to Sriwijaya Air, has been apprehended by Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office (AGO) for his alleged involvement in a sprawling corruption case surrounding the management of tin commodities. The charges involve the mismanagement of tin trade operations under PT Timah Tbk’s mining license from 2015 to 2022, resulting in a staggering state loss of approximately Rp300 trillion.
Seized Assets and Key Allegations
The AGO has seized several of Hendry Lie’s assets, including prime properties such as a luxury villa in Bali built on an 1,800-square-meter plot and valued at Rp20 billion. “We have traced, identified, and confiscated assets from all suspects in this case, including Hendry Lie,” stated Abdul Qohar, Director of Investigation at the AGO’s Special Crimes Division.
Hendry, identified as the beneficial owner of PT Tinindo Inter Nusa (PT TIN), is accused of orchestrating unlawful agreements between PT Timah Tbk and PT TIN to smelt illegally mined tin. Tin ore was sourced from unregistered mining operations under CV BPR and CV SFS, entities allegedly created to facilitate the scheme.
Arrest at Soekarno-Hatta Airport
Hendry Lie was detained upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport after returning from Singapore. His passport, expiring on November 27, 2024, necessitated his return to Indonesia. According to AGO spokesperson Harli Siregar, Hendry had been receiving medical treatment in Singapore.
This arrest follows months of public scrutiny over Hendry’s absence from court proceedings, which the AGO had previously attributed to health issues.
Legal Implications
Hendry faces charges under Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Law, specifically Articles 2(1) and 3, alongside Article 55 of the Criminal Code. These laws impose severe penalties for individuals involved in state financial losses through corrupt practices.
Public and Official Responses
The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of prominent figures and the immense financial implications. Despite public criticism over delays in detaining Hendry, the AGO has affirmed its commitment to pursuing justice.
“We are taking all necessary measures to ensure the investigation proceeds effectively. The suspect will be held accountable under the law,” emphasized Kuntadi, Director of Special Crimes at the AGO.
Hendry’s arrest marks a critical juncture in the tin corruption case, as authorities intensify efforts to recover state losses and dismantle networks enabling illegal mining and trade practices.
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Broader Context
Indonesia, one of the world’s leading tin exporters, has long struggled with illegal mining operations that undermine state revenues and environmental standards. This high-profile case underscores the broader challenges of enforcing accountability within the mining sector and addressing systemic corruption.
The AGO’s ongoing investigation includes over 20 suspects, all of whom face charges related to this extensive corruption network. As legal proceedings unfold, the case may serve as a landmark in Indonesia’s anti-corruption efforts within its lucrative mining industry.
(Becky)
