TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning TV presenter Brigita Manohara about the money she receive from Central Mamberamo Regent, Ricky Ham Pagawak. KPK investigators probed the issue when questioning Brigita on Monday, July 25.
"The witness was present and confirmed about the alleged flow of money from the suspect," KPK acting spokesman Ali Fikri said on Tuesday, July 26.
Ali said the KPK appreciated Brigita's intention to return the money and goods she received from Ricky. The KPK, he said, would analyze and cross-examine her testimonies with the suspect or other witnesses.
After yesterday's questioning, Brigita Purnawati Manohara admitted to have received gifts and money from Ricky. She said they were given to her as presents by Ricky, who appreciated Brigita's profession and as payment for her communications consultant services. She denied that gifts were given because she had a special relationship with Ricky.
"Earlier today I stated facts that I had received a flow of funds, as well as gifts, from the suspect," Brigita said at the KPK Building in Jakarta, Monday, July 25.
Brigita suspected that the funds and gifts were the proceeds of corruption practices. She said she would coordinate with investigators to return the gifts. "I hope the suspect is found soon and this case is solved immediately," Brigita said.
The KPK has named Central Mamberamo Regent Ricky Ham as a suspect of bribery and gratification related to projects in the regency. However, the KPK failed to arrest Ricky because he fled to Papua New Guinea on July 14, 2022.
The KPK has added Ricky to its wanted list.
M ROSSENO AJI
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