FAJAR.CO.ID, MAKASSAR – Former Chancellor of the Indonesian Muslim University (UMI), Prof. Basri Modding, finally freed from suspect status in the case of alleged embezzlement of funds for the UMI Makassar Campus Foundation project.
The South Sulawesi Regional Police‘s Criminal Investigation Department officially revoked the suspect’s status through the issuance of an Investigation Termination Order (SP3).
The SP3 is contained in the Decree of the South Sulawesi Regional Police Dirreskrimum Number S Tap/102/XI/RES.1.11/2024/DITRESKRIMUM dated 14 November 2024.
The letter decided to stop investigations related to alleged criminal acts of embezzlement as regulated in Article 374 and Article 372 of the Criminal Code, which occurred in Makassar City during the period 2021-2023.
Apart from Prof. Basri Modding, other suspects in this case, namely Muhammad Ibnu Widyanto Basri and Dr. Ir. Hanafi Ashad, was also released from suspect status.
Dirreskrimum Polda Sulsel Kombes Pol Jamaluddin Farti said that the UMI Waqf Foundation together with the three suspects had agreed to take the path of restorative justice (RJ).
“They are RJ, the suspect and the campus also both accepted (RJ’s agreement) that’s why (the case) was stopped,” said Jamaluddin, Thursday (21/11/2024).
However, Jamaluddin was reluctant to mention in detail how much funds were returned by the suspects.
“Yes (there is a refund to the UMI Makassar Foundation),” said Jamaludin.
Not long ago, Police Commissioner Jamaluddin Farti also mentioned that the suspect status of the inactive Chancellor of the Indonesian Muslim University (UMI) Prof. Rahman’s confirmation has been revoked.
This was revealed by Jamaludin after his party carried out a special case regarding the case involving Prof Sufirman’s name.
What are the legal implications of revoking a suspect status in embezzlement cases in Indonesia?
Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor and Legal Expert on UMI Chancellor CaseTime.news Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to this edition of Time.news Insights. Today, we have an expert in criminal law and higher education administration with us to discuss a significant recent development in Indonesia. On November 14, 2024, the South Sulawesi Regional Police officially revoked the suspect status of Prof. Basri Modding, the former Chancellor of the Indonesian Muslim University, in a case concerning alleged embezzlement. Thank you for joining us today.
Legal Expert: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here and to discuss this important issue.
Editor: Let’s start with the core of the matter. Prof. Modding was alleged to have been involved in embezzling funds related to the UMI Makassar Campus Foundation project. Can you break down what the implications of the police’s decision to revoke his suspect status actually mean?
Expert: Absolutely. Revoking the suspect status is a significant development. It means that the police have found insufficient evidence to continue the investigation into the allegations against him. The issuance of the Investigation Termination Order, or SP3, essentially clears him of formal charges regarding embezzlement as outlined in the Indonesian Criminal Code, specifically Articles 372 and 374, which pertain to fraud and embezzlement.
Editor: That’s quite impactful. Given that these events unfolded over a three-year period, from 2021 to 2023, what might have led to the initial allegations against Prof. Modding?
Expert: Allegations like these often stem from a variety of factors including financial audits, whistleblower reports, or even internal disputes within an institution. In academic settings, especially during substantial funding projects, budget mismanagement or miscommunication can sometimes be misconstrued as criminal activity. That said, without comprehensive evidence, the burden of proof is on the accuser.
Editor: Indeed, and it sounds like due process is vital in these situations. Now that Prof. Modding’s name has been cleared, what are the possible next steps for him and for UMI?
Expert: For Prof. Modding, this decision allows him to rehabilitate his reputation and possibly resume his academic responsibilities and projects without the cloud of suspicion hanging over him. For UMI, they might need to reassess their internal controls and oversight mechanisms to prevent similar allegations in the future. Transparency and accountability in financial dealings are crucial for maintaining trust and credibility in educational institutions.
Editor: That’s a good point. Do you believe this case will have broader implications for higher education governance in Indonesia, particularly in terms of financial oversight?
Expert: Certainly. This case highlights the importance of having robust financial governance structures within higher education institutions. It also raises awareness among academics and administrators about the potential legal ramifications of financial mismanagement. Moving forward, we might see more institutions adopting stricter compliance protocols and conducting regular audits to safeguard against any misconduct.
Editor: Lastly, what message do you think this incident sends to faculty members and leaders within the Indonesian academic community?
Expert: The key takeaway is that while allegations can arise, it is essential to approach each case with the intent to uncover the truth rather than jump to conclusions. It points towards the need for due process, ensuring that individuals are innocent until proven guilty. It also reinforces the importance of transparency and ethical conduct in academia, as these principles not only protect individuals but also enhance the integrity of the institution as a whole.
Editor: Thank you for your insights. It’s clear that this case is more than just about one individual; it carries implications for the future of governance in higher education. We appreciate your time today.
Expert: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing this matter with you.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in to Time.news Insights. We will continue to follow developments in education and governance in Indonesia. Have a great day!
