TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - TV presenter Brigita Manohara handed over Rp480 million to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). That was the amount she received from Central Mamberamo Regent, Ricky Ham Pagawak.

KPK acting spokesman Ali Fikri said on Tuesday, July 26, that Brigita transferred the money to KPK's account. "We have checked and the money is in," Ali said.

According to Ali, the KPK will include the money as evidence in the corruption case implicating Ricky Ham Pagawak. KPK investigators will analyze and cross-examine the evidence with other witnesses.

"Our investigators will also call witness Brigita again to confirm other evidence," said Ali.

The KPK questioned Brigita, who works as a presenter at tvOne, on Monday, July 25. She was asked about the money and goods she allegedly received from Ricky.

After yesterday's questioning, Brigita admitted to having received gifts and money from Ricky. She said that the Demokrat Party politician gave her money and gifts because he appreciated Brigita's profession, and as payment for her communications consultant services. She denied that the gifts were given because she had a special relationship with Ricky.

"Earlier today I stated facts that I had received a flow of funds, as well as gifts, from the suspect," Brigita said at the KPK Building in Jakarta, Monday.

The KPK has named Central Mamberamo Regent Ricky Ham as a suspect of bribery and gratification related to projects in the regency. However, the KPK failed to arrest Ricky because he fled to Papua New Guinea on July 14.

The KPK has added Ricky to its wanted list and is questioning many people to reveal his whereabouts, including people closest to him who may have helped him escape.

M Rosseno Aji

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News