Financial Crime World

Disgraced Indonesian Tax Official Rafael Alun Trisambodo Faces Money Laundering Charges in High-Profile Case

Rafael Alun Trisambodo, a mid-level Indonesian tax official, is embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle as he faces money laundering charges following a viral video scandal involving his son.

Trisambodo’s Downfall: A Viral Video Scandal

The scandal began in February 2021, when a viral video emerged showing Trisambodo’s son, Mario Dandy Satriyo, viciously attacking a 17-year-old boy, then his ex-girlfriend’s alleged former boyfriend. The teenager sustained severe injuries and was hospitalized in a coma.

Internet sleuths soon discovered Satriyo’s lavish social media posts, which contrasted sharply with Trisambodo’s modest employment. A public outcry ensued, leading to Trisambodo’s suspension and later dismissal. An investigation into his finances followed, uncovering money laundering allegations.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) filed an indictment against Trisambodo last month, accusing him of money laundering and accepting bribes while employed at the tax office. The indictment alleges that Trisambodo laundered approximately $6 million in illicit funds and accepted a $1 million “gift.” He may face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Trisambodo’s wife, Dita Rosana, was also sentenced to 11 months in prison on September 7 for her involvement in the corruption charges related to the family’s wealth. Satriyo was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his aggravated assault of the teenager.

The Origins of Money Laundering in Indonesia

Money laundering has deep roots in Indonesia, tracing back to the 1997 Asian financial crisis. During this crisis, Indonesia signed a $12.4 billion funding agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize its economy. As part of the agreement, Indonesia enacted new financial legislation in 2002, giving birth to money laundering laws and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), an agency responsible for financial intelligence.

However, the prosecution of money laundering cases in Indonesia remains challenging. Money laundering requires the verification of a “predicate crime” before the money laundering offense can be prosecuted, necessitating double the evidence and labor compared to a single crime.

Trisambodo’s Predicate Crime: Gratification and Corruption

Trisambodo’s case appears to involve gratification, a form of corruption, as his alleged predicate crime. The KPK is investigating Trisambodo’s attempt to hide his illicit assets by laundering them through various bank accounts, family businesses, and multiple currencies.

Despite Indonesia’s efforts against money laundering, the complexities involved in prosecuting such cases continue to pose significant challenges, leaving no stone unturned in its extensive investigation and subsequent trials.