Medan –

Former Head of Muara Bolak Village, Sosorgadong District, Central Tapanuli, Saihot Pandiangan, admitted to embezzling 2.9 billion in village funds because he was ordered to do so by the Head of Service. This was revealed during a trial at the Medan District Court.

During the trial, when the panel of judges led by Mohammad Yusafrihardi Girsang asked where the money went and how it was facilitated.

“Where did that 2.9 billion rupiah go and how did you manage it?” asked judge Mohammad Yusafrihardi Girsang in room Cakra 9 of the Medan District Court, Friday (5/6/2026).

Hearing that question, Saihot said he committed the corruption of village funds not for himself but at the request of the Head of Service.

“The money was not for me but for the deceased Head of Service, Your Honor,” said Saihot Pandiangan.

Furthermore, Saihot Pandiangan stated that the corruption was carried out through the mechanism of disbursing the village fund budget. Additionally, he admitted that he held the disbursement, not the village treasurer.

“The method of taking (the 2.9 billion in corruption money) was through the disbursement, Your Honor,” said Saihot.

Then the judge asked again why the treasurer was not the one holding the finances. Saihot admitted in the trial that he held the village fund disbursement because the Head of Service requested it.

“I held the disbursement of those funds because the Head of Service requested it, Your Honor. Then I was ordered by the Head of Service to deliver the money,” said Saihot haltingly before the panel of judges.

The judge reaffirmed whether Saihot really received an order to do that. To the judge, Saihot stated that it was true.

The judge again asked regarding the defendant’s actions, whether his actions were in accordance with the law.

“Were your actions in accordance with the law?” asked the judge.

Saihot did not address the matter of the law. Then he admitted to the judge that he could not defy the Head of Service’s order regarding the embezzlement of the corruption money.

“I did it because I could not defy (the Head of Service). Besides that, some village activity programs were carried out, the Head of Service did that,” said Saihot.

After hearing the defendant’s testimony, the judge stated that Saihot’s reason for committing corruption worth 2.9 billion was unacceptable.

“The court cannot accept your reason. The sentencing demand is next week, pray,” concluded the judge.

Previously reported, the former Head of Muara Bolak Village, Sosorgadong District, Central Tapanuli, Saihot Pandiangan, was charged with embezzling 2.9 billion in village funds.

The prosecutor stated that there were allegations of budget irregularities over four years from 2020 to 2024. There was a strong indication of document manipulation and falsification of village activity accountability reports.

The prosecutor said that due to the defendant’s actions, the state suffered losses amounting to approximately Rp 2,938,000,000.

Medan District Court

The Medan District Court, located in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, is a key judicial institution with roots dating back to the Dutch colonial era. It was established to serve as a central court for legal matters in the region, reflecting the colonial legal system’s influence. Today, it continues to function as a primary venue for civil and criminal trials, playing a vital role in the Indonesian judiciary.

Cakra 9

Cakra 9 is a historic cultural site located in the old city of Semarang, Indonesia, known for its unique blend of Chinese, Dutch, and Javanese architectural influences. Originally built in the 19th century as a warehouse and trading post, it later served as a military barracks during the Dutch colonial period. Today, it has been revitalized into a vibrant arts and culinary hub, preserving its heritage while attracting visitors with its eclectic atmosphere.

Muara Bolak Village

Muara Bolak Village is a traditional fishing village located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic coastal setting. Historically, it served as an important trading post and settlement for the Batak and Malay communities, blending indigenous customs with outside influences over centuries. Today, the village preserves its traditional stilt houses and maritime traditions, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s historical way of life.

Sosorgadong District

Sosorgadong District is a historic area located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its cultural significance to the Batak Toba people. It is believed to be the origin site of the Batak Toba ancestors, with the name “Sosorgadong” referring to a legendary well or spring that played a key role in their early settlement. The district preserves traditional customs and landmarks, making it an important site for understanding Batak heritage and history.

Central Tapanuli

Central Tapanuli is a regency located on the western coast of North Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity. Historically, the area was part of the ancient Barus kingdom, a major port for camphor and benzoin trade that attracted merchants from India, China, and the Middle East as early as the first millennium. Today, it is home to a mix of Batak, Mandailing, and Malay ethnic groups, and features notable sites like the Sipinsur Geosite and Lake Aek Natonang.