Money Laundering Through Cash Transactions Difficult To Trace

Jakarta, Jan 7 (ANTARA) - According to the Centre for Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis (INTRAC/PPATK), money laundering through cash transactions is difficult to trace. "Bribes in the form of cash cannot be traced by the PPATK. We are unaware of the source and the recipient of bribes," said the Chairman of PPATK, Muhammad Yunus, on Monday. According to Yunus, obstacles can be overcome if the Constitutional Court (MK) cooperates with PPATK. "MK should look into tracing the suspected money launderer," he said. PPATK and MK have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their commitment to eradicate corruption in the country. The MoU was signed by the General Secretary of MK, Janedjri M Gaffar, and the Chairman of PPATK, Muhammad Yunus. The signing of the MoU was witnessed by the Chairman of KM, Mahfud MD, the Vice Chairman of PPATK, Agus Santoso and several constitutional judges. According to the MoU, both the parties should share information, look into training and education, and ensure optimal usage of information and communication technology to combat money laundering. With regard to bribes in the form of cash, Muhammad Yunus hopes that both the parties will be able to provide information on election funds. According to Yusuf, cash transactions should not exceed Rp100 million. "Fundraising often occurs during elections. Once there is a restriction in the volume of cash transactions, corruption level in Indonesia will automatically decrease because it will be risky to accept bribes," he said. According to Mahfud, corruption is so rampant in Indonesia that the public is immune to it. "Corruption is so rampant that we are immune to it. If nothing is done, it will be problematic for Indonesia,� he said.