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Getting to Know Richard Louhenapessy, Former Mayor of Ambon Suspected of Involvement in Money Laundering Case

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Getting to Know Richard Louhenapessy, Former Mayor of Ambon Suspected of Involvement in Money Laundering Case Richard Louhenapessy (Photo: Wikipedia)

Kapanlagi.com - Richard Louhenapessy, the former Mayor of Ambon who led for two terms, is now caught in a complicated legal whirlpool related to allegations of money laundering (TPPU). After previously being embroiled in a bribery case regarding the granting of permits for minimarket construction in 2020, Louhenapessy is back in the spotlight as he was questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) at the Ambon Prison on Monday, December 23, 2024.

This questioning adds to the long list of legal troubles haunting Louhenapessy, who had already been designated as a suspect in the bribery case. This time, the KPK is trying to delve deeper into Louhenapessy's alleged involvement in money laundering practices during his tenure as Mayor of Ambon. Indications of concealment and disguise of the origins of assets allegedly belonging to him are the main focus of this investigation.

As the investigation progresses, the KPK continues to gather evidence to further uncover allegations of corruption and money laundering involving public officials in Ambon. This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in governance, especially in managing construction permits involving private parties.

1. The Beginning of Richard Louhenapessy's Career in Politics

Richard Louhenapessy, a figure who began his political journey after obtaining his bachelor's degree from the Faculty of Law at Unpatti Ambon in 1985, has etched his name in the political history of Maluku. He joined the Golkar Party in 1992, stepping confidently as a member of the Maluku Provincial Parliament and achieving the position of Chairman of the Parliament from 2004 to 2009.

His career peaked when he was elected Mayor of Ambon in 2011, where he was known for actively supporting various urban development policies. However, his reputation is now shaken by allegations of involvement in corruption related to the licensing of a minimarket development in 2020.

As an influential figure in Maluku, this case has not only attracted public attention but also involves an investigation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding allegations of bribery and money laundering that tarnish his political achievements.

2. Bribery Case of Development Permit for Minimarket Outlets

In 2020, the political world in Ambon City was shaken by a bribery scandal involving Louhenapessy, the Mayor. He was allegedly receiving illegal funds amounting to Rp500 million to expedite the granting of principle permits for the construction of 20 minimarket outlets.

The money was channeled by a staff member of the minimarket who collaborated with an employee of the Ambon City Administration. This case began with a permit application submitted by the minimarket, but ended up with an investigation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) after reports of this bribery practice surfaced.

Although Louhenapessy denied all allegations, the KPK continued to delve into this case, which was suspected to be not just a single incident, but part of a broader network in the management of permits in the region.

3. Determination of Suspects in Money Laundering Case

In July 2022, the KPK revealed shocking allegations that Louhenapessy was involved in money laundering crimes (TPPU) related to his wealth. The investigative team found that Louhenapessy allegedly concealed the origins of his assets by using the identities of other people, as if trying to evade scrutiny over wealth acquired through dubious means.

The investigation deepened after it was revealed that he used the names of third parties to cover up his asset ownership. The KPK did not remain silent, summoning several witnesses to dig deeper into the suspicious transactions that took place during his tenure as Mayor.

This case reflects how corruption and money laundering practices can undermine the structure of local government, where public officials abuse power for personal gain. With unwavering spirit, the KPK is determined to uncover more facts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

4. Richard Louhenapessy's Examination at Ambon Prison

On December 23, 2024, Richard Louhenapessy faced the KPK again at Class IIA Ambon Prison, in relation to an investigation concerning allegations of Money Laundering (TPPU).

Amid the legal troubles surrounding him due to a bribery case involving a minimarket construction permit, Louhenapessy now has to confront the bitter reality as the KPK digs deeper into new evidence revealing the concealment of his wealth.

KPK Spokesperson, Tessa Mahardhika, emphasized that this examination is a crucial step in the investigation of a major case involving public officials in the City of Ambon.

With the potential for severe criminal sanctions looming, Louhenapessy's legal journey has now become a sharp focus for the public, given his once-respected reputation in the community.

5. The Impact of This Case on the Government and the People of Ambon

The case of Richard Louhenapessy has shaken the image of the Ambon City Government, considering he is a former mayor who had significant influence over two terms. Now, the community is faced with the bitter reality that the figure they trusted to lead is embroiled in a corruption and money laundering scandal.

This situation raises profound questions about integrity and transparency in budget management and regional policies by the government and the Golkar Party. Disappointment envelops the people of Ambon, who are now increasingly aware of the importance of strict oversight over public officials.

Hope arises that the governance system can be improved and that perpetrators of corruption receive appropriate punishment, for a better future for this beloved city.

6. What is the reason Richard Louhenapessy is being investigated by the KPK?

Richard Louhenapessy is currently under the spotlight after being questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding allegations of money laundering related to bribery for permits to build a minimarket in Ambon City in 2020.

7. What roles did Richard Louhenapessy play in this case?

Richard Louhenapessy is now embroiled in a shocking scandal, after it was revealed that he allegedly received a bribe of Rp500 million to expedite the process of granting a principle permit for the establishment of a minimarket outlet.

Not only that, this former official is also suspected of being involved in clever money laundering practices, by concealing the origins of his suspicious wealth.

8. What happens next in the legal process for Richard Louhenapessy?

Richard Louhenapessy must now face the next chapter in a tense legal journey, while the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is actively gathering various pieces of evidence to strengthen the money laundering allegations that have arisen in his case.

(kpl/rmt)

Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
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