"We strongly suspect irregularities in the management of hajj pilgrimage. Currently we are auditing the cost as we see spending not transparently reported," PPATK Chairman Muhammad Yusuf said.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Financial Transactions Analysis and Reporting Center (PPATK) said there are indication of malfeasance in the management of hajj pilgrimage under the Religious Affairs Ministry.
"We strongly suspect irregularities in the management of hajj pilgrimage. Currently we are auditing the cost as we see spending not transparently reported," PPATK chairman Muhammad Yusuf said here on Wednesday
Yusuf said in the period of 2004-2012, the operational cost of hajj pilgrimage reached Rp80 trillion with interest at Rp2.3 trillion.
"Hajj pilgrims should not have to face difficulties in traveling from Mecca to Madinah with such large fund available," Yusuf said.
Another indication is that the fund is placed in a single bank without clear standard for fund placement, he said.
"Why would the fund is placed in the "X" bank not in the "Y" bank where the interest is better. There should be standardization for the placement of fund," he said.
He also cited a number of other indications of irregularities such as in lack of transparency in the purchase of foreign exchanges.
He said the case has been reported to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for legal investigation.
Earlier, deputy chairman of KPK Busyro Muqqodas said KPK has sent four investigators to Mecca and Madinah to probe the case further
Busryo described as spectacular the amount of fund spent on catering and accommodations reaching up to Rp45 trillion in state fund.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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