Interpol issues red notice for Indonesia 'gasoline godfather'

Interpol has issued a red notice for the arrest of Mohammad Riza Chalid, a prominent Indonesian oil tycoon, in connection with a significant corruption scandal involving US$285 million. The announcement was made by police on Sunday. Chalid, who is 66 years old and has earned the nickname the “gasoline godfather,” is wanted in Indonesia for his alleged involvement in corrupt activities at the state-owned oil company Pertamina. These activities reportedly took place between 2018 and 2023. The allegations against Chalid include serious charges such as money laundering and the manipulation of a lease agreement. These charges highlight the extent of the corruption scandal and raise concerns about governance and business practices within Indonesia's state-owned enterprises, particularly in the oil sector. The involvement of a high-profile figure like Chalid underscores ongoing issues of corruption in the country. Untung Widyatmoko, the secretary of Interpol’s Indonesia National Central Bureau, confirmed the issuance of the red notice. This notice serves as a formal request to law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest Chalid, pending extradition. The issuance of the red notice marks a significant step in international law enforcement efforts to address corruption and hold accountable those involved in such activities. The case against Chalid reflects broader challenges within Indonesia regarding corruption in state-owned enterprises. The red notice not only seeks to apprehend Chalid but also aims to reinforce the commitment to combat corruption at high levels within the country’s governance and business sectors.