Investigators from the Corruption Crimes Sub-Directorate of the Bengkulu Police’s Special Crimes Unit (Subdit Tipidkor Ditreskrimsus Polda Bengkulu) searched both the office and private residence of Samsu Bahari, the Director of Perusahaan Daerah Air Minum (PDAM) Tirta Hidayah in Bengkulu City, on Thursday, 10 July 2025. The search was part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery and gratification related to the hiring of contract-based workers known as Pegawai Harian Lepas (PHL) at the regional water company for the 2023–2025 period. Police officers combed through several rooms in the PDAM building, including the director’s office, the finance division, the general affairs unit, and the sub-unit for water meter replacement. The director’s private home was also searched during the same operation.
According to Kompol Muhammad Syahir Fuad Rangkuti, Head of the Corruption Crimes Sub-Directorate, authorities confiscated a large number of documents during the raid. Among the seized items were two boxes of files, including assignment letters for PHL employees from 2023 to 2025 and the director’s personal diary. The diary allegedly contains records of cash received from individuals applying for PHL positions. These documents will be used to support the case file as the investigation continues.
The search followed the formal questioning of Samsu Bahari earlier that week, on Tuesday, 8 July 2025. This marked a significant step forward in the case, which has been under active investigation since February. The police have reportedly summoned and questioned hundreds of witnesses so far, many of whom are believed to be linked to the hiring process. These steps are part of efforts to uncover the scope and structure of the alleged corruption.
The core of the case centers on claims that several PDAM officials systematically accepted bribes from candidates seeking PHL positions, with five to six new workers reportedly hired each month. These workers were allegedly asked to pay a fee to secure employment, though no formal contracts or written agreements were provided. This lack of documentation raises concerns about transparency and governance within the municipal water company. The investigation is ongoing, with further legal action expected as more evidence is gathered.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
