TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A member of the Indonesian Navy who refused to have his name disclosed, acknowledged that he had receive bribes from First Inspector Labora Sitorus. "I receive Rp 3 million (US$ 308) monthly wage." he said as quoted by Tempo Magazine, May 20-27, 2013 edition.

Labora Sitorus started his business in 1983. He sold general needs onboard ships docking around Sorong. He then chose to become an officer of the law to expedite his business. By mid-1990, officer Sitorus starts to involve himself in the alcohol market.

In the 2000s, Sitorus was rarely seen in his office, allegedly being too busy managing his business. He ever filed for a resignation, but was refused.

It is during that time he learned to conspire with other officials, especially with the Indonesian Navy. "Tribute to the commander could be up to Rp 40 million (US$ 4,108) per month,"

Commander of the Indonesian Naval Base in Sorong Colonel Irvansyah, denied any allegations of receiving bribes from Sitorus. He said that his members once arrested Sitorus, although he was released moments after.

Meanwhile, Sitorus' lawyer Azet Hutabarat, also denied the allegations. "[What they said about] Mr. Sitorus' endeavors in Sorong are mere assumptions," he concluded.

MUSTAFA SILALAHI | JERRY OMONA