Former Pertamina Executives Sentenced in $17 Billion Fuel Blending Scandal
Jakarta – A Jakarta court has sentenced three former executives of Indonesia’s state-owned oil and gas company, Pertamina, to prison terms ranging from nine to ten years in connection with a large-scale corruption case involving the illegal blending and sale of fuel products. The scandal, estimated to have caused state losses of up to $17 billion (approximately IDR 9.4 trillion), has intensified scrutiny over governance and oversight within Indonesian state-owned enterprises.
Key Figures and Sentences
- Riva Siahaan, former CEO of Pertamina Patra Niaga, was sentenced to nine years in prison. Jakarta Globe
- Maya Kusmaya, former Marketing Director, received a nine-year sentence. Jakarta Globe
- Edward Corne, former Vice President of Trading Operations, was sentenced to ten years in prison. Jakarta Globe
Details of the Corruption Scheme
Prosecutors alleged that between 2018 and 2023, lower-grade fuel was unlawfully blended and sold to the public as higher-quality products at premium prices, generating illicit gains. The scheme involved preferential treatment given to foreign companies in procuring imports of refined products, with evidence suggesting that estimated price ceilings were leaked to partner companies to ensure they won auctions. Voi.id
State Losses and Financial Impact
The Attorney General’s Office initially estimated state losses at IDR 9.41 trillion (approximately $566.7 million USD as of October 2025). Windonesia Although, the court determined that while state financial losses were proven, a larger calculation of IDR 171.997 trillion (approximately $10.3 billion USD) was based on assumptions and deemed unreal and uncertain. Voi.id
No Personal Enrichment Found
Despite the significant state losses, the court found no legal evidence that the defendants personally profited from the corruption. The judge ruled against imposing financial penalties or seizing assets. Voi.id
Ongoing Investigation and Private Sector Involvement
The investigation into the fuel blending practices continues, and has expanded to include scrutiny of private sector companies involved in the purchase of the mislabeled fuel. Adaro Energy, owned by Garibaldi “Boy” Thohir, is among the private companies facing questions regarding their role in the scheme. Windonesia
Appeals and Future Outlook
Riva Siahaan has indicated his intention to appeal the verdict, stating that he believes crucial evidence was not considered during the trial. Jakarta Globe The case underscores the ongoing challenges of combating corruption within Indonesia’s state-owned enterprises and the necessitate for improved governance and oversight.