Samosir. The alleged corruption case involving social assistance funds for 303 households affected by flash floods in Kenegerian Sihotang in 2023 has entered the investigation stage, but the Samosir District Prosecutor’s Office has not yet named any suspects.

When asked about the progress of the alleged social aid fund case, the Samosir Chief Prosecutor directed inquiries to the Head of the Intelligence Section.

The Head of Intelligence stated that no suspects have been named so far. When asked whether the prosecutor’s office had summoned Bank Mandiri, he confirmed, “Yes, we have.”

Bank Mandiri, as the bank that opened beneficiary accounts for the PENA (Pahlawan Ekonomi Nusantara) social assistance funds from the Ministry of Social Affairs, is considered involved in this case.

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The whistleblower in the alleged corruption case of PENA social aid funds emphasized that this involvement should be a focus for law enforcement.

“How is it possible that the account holder was unaware their money had been spent? This is highly suspicious,” he said.

Meanwhile, a beneficiary of the social assistance funds from Kenegerian Sihotang stated that they have yet to receive an account book from Bank Mandiri.

Samosir District Prosecutor’s Office

The Samosir District Prosecutor’s Office is a legal institution located on Samosir Island in North Sumatra, Indonesia, serving as part of the country’s prosecutorial system. It handles criminal cases, legal supervision, and government litigation within the district. While specific historical details about its establishment are limited, it operates under Indonesia’s Attorney General’s Office, reflecting the nation’s judicial framework.

Bank Mandiri

Bank Mandiri is one of Indonesia’s largest state-owned banks, established in 1998 through the merger of four state banks—Bank Bumi Daya, Bank Dagang Negara, Bank Exim, and Bank Pembangunan Indonesia. It plays a key role in Indonesia’s financial sector, offering services like corporate banking, retail banking, and microfinance. The bank’s history reflects Indonesia’s economic reforms following the 1997 Asian financial crisis, and its headquarters in Jakarta is housed in a historic Dutch colonial-era building, showcasing a blend of heritage and modernity.

Kenegerian Sihotang

Kenegerian Sihotang is a traditional Batak cultural and administrative region located in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Historically, it was part of the Batak Toba kingdom and is known for its adherence to indigenous customs, ancestral traditions, and unique village structures. The area reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Batak people, including traditional houses (rumah adat) and communal practices.

Ministry of Social Affairs

The Ministry of Social Affairs is a government department responsible for social welfare, labor, and community development in many countries. Its history often dates back to the early or mid-20th century, when governments established formal institutions to address poverty, workers’ rights, and public health. The ministry typically oversees policies related to social security, employment, and family services, aiming to improve citizens’ quality of life.