Next month, it will be four years since Brig. Gen. Arman Depari first took on the job as Director of Narcotics at the National Police headquarters. During his tenure, hundreds of kilograms of illicit drugs valued at trillions of rupiah have been confiscated following raids, some of which he personally led. The career of this 1985 graduate from the Police Academy has been on the rise since he was appointed Narcotics director of the Greater Jakarta Police force. He was then pulled out to head the nationwide narcotics division, where he earned his stars.
In the police force, four years in one position can be a comparatively long time. His new job will be deputy chief of eradication, at the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), a high-profile job currently held by Benny J. Mamoto.
News of his impending move had circulated among officers at police headquarters, but lately, there were reports that the BNN had its own nominee, and that he did not get along with Benny Mamoto. On a number of occasions, Benny's and Arman's men often found themselves in confrontation. "There seems to be a face-off with Benny, who indeed has his own nominee to replace him at the BNN," said one Tempo source.
Since the news that his move to the BNN was problematic, Arman has not been seen in public, trying to avoid the media. He could not be reached at his office.
Last week, Arman appeared at the Justice and Human Rights Ministry in South Jakarta, accompanying National Police chief, Gen. Timur Pradopo who had met with Justice Minister Amir Syamsuddin. But even here Arman seemed reluctant to answer questions posed by Tempo reporter Mustafa Silalahi, on his new position and his relations with Benny J. Mamoto.
Is true you are in conflict with Benny Mamoto?
Ah, nothing like that. Where did that news come from?
You and Benny have reportedly held each other to ransom by 'fabricating' cases.
No. (He looks shocked and puzzled.)
Are you familiar with the case involving Helena, who reported Benny to police headquarters?
No. I don't know anything about that.
You were reported and you have been questioned by the Professionalism and Security (Propam) division for ‘playing’ narcotics-based cases which you had a hand in. Correct?
No, nothing like that (laughing).
You were reported to have arrested and detained Commissioner Anton. He knew plenty about the case 'played' by Benny?
Who is Anton? Nothing like that.
Were you appointed by the National Police chief to replace Benny at the BNN?
Right now we are focusing on working, chasing after drug dealers. I don't think about such things.
Didn't Gen. Timur Pradopo send a secret telegram announcing he chose you?
I don't know. My business is only to catch criminals.
This interview is also available in this week's edition of Tempo English.