A shocking case of fraud disguised as a legitimate bank program has surfaced in East Sumba. One resident lost a staggering Rp2 billion after falling for a fake investment scheme that appeared convincing at first glance.
The case was revealed by East Sumba Police Chief AKBP Dr. Gede Harimbawa during a press conference at the local police headquarters on Friday (Dec 5, 2025).
According to the Police Chief, the case began when a resident identified as EU filed a report in September 2025. Following an in-depth investigation, police named RAH, a former employee of a bank in Waingapu, as the suspect. He is now charged under Articles 378 and 372 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, covering fraud and embezzlement.
How the Fraud Scheme Worked
The scheme started back in December 2024, when the suspect visited the victim’s home and offered an investment program called “Get Reward.” He claimed the program was officially run by the bank and promised a Rp120 million cashback if the victim deposited Rp2 billion.
Trusting the suspect’s background as a former bank employee, the victim handed over their passbook and signed a withdrawal slip. After receiving confirmation via WhatsApp, the suspect withdrew the victim’s money.
Not long after, the victim received a Rp120 million transfer, which made the offer seem legitimate and further strengthened their trust in the program.
The Truth Comes Out
In May 2025, the bank’s management discovered suspicious transactions in the victim’s account. After conducting an internal investigation, the bank confirmed that the “Get Reward” program never existed and that the victim’s funds had never been recorded as part of any official program.
Police later found that the Rp120 million cashback was actually taken from the victim’s own money, withdrawn earlier by the suspect.
“The cashback received by the victim was actually their own money. It was a tactic used by the suspect to gain the victim’s full trust,” said the East Sumba Police Chief.
Investigators also revealed that the suspect used around Rp1.88 billion for personal expenses, including the purchase of a Toyota Innova Reborn.
Legal Process Underway
With solid evidence in hand, East Sumba Police officially upgraded the case to full investigation status. Two investigation warrants were issued in October and November 2025, followed by the submission of an SPDP (Notice of Commencement of Investigation) to the East Sumba Prosecutor’s Office.
Police Warn the Public
The Police Chief urged the community to remain vigilant when dealing with investment schemes or bank programs that promise unrealistic returns.
“Don’t fall for offers that guarantee huge profits in a short time. Always verify whether the program is truly official,” he emphasized.
East Sumba Police confirmed that the legal process will continue, and they are committed to ensuring the case is resolved thoroughly.
