Interpol Issues Red Notice for Indonesian Oil Tycoon Mohammad Riza Chalid

Interpol has issued a red notice for the arrest of Mohammad Riza Chalid, a prominent Indonesian oil tycoon known as the "gasoline godfather." This action follows allegations of his involvement in a significant corruption scandal linked to the state-owned oil company Pertamina, which is estimated to have cost Indonesia approximately $17 billion. The red notice, issued on January 23, 2026, at Indonesia's request, seeks assistance from law enforcement agencies in 196 countries to locate and provisionally arrest the 66-year-old businessman.

Interpol hunts Indonesia’s ‘gasoline godfather’ in $17B graft caseInterpol issues red notice for Indonesia 'gasoline godfather'

Chalid is accused of participating in corrupt practices at Pertamina from 2018 to 2023. The allegations include money laundering and manipulating lease agreements to import crude oil at inflated prices, contrary to Indonesian law that mandates sourcing oil domestically. The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has identified 18 individuals as suspects in this case, which has drawn significant attention due to its scale and impact on the Indonesian economy.

Interpol hunts Indonesia’s ‘gasoline godfather’ in $17B graft case

Pertamina, Indonesia's state-owned oil and gas corporation, has been at the center of various corruption scandals over the years. The AGO's investigation into Chalid and his associates is part of a broader effort to combat graft in the country, which has seen numerous public officials arrested for corruption. For instance, in 2023, a former Communications Minister was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a corruption case that reportedly cost Indonesia over $530 million.

Interpol issues red notice for Indonesia 'gasoline godfather'

Untung Widyatmoko, Secretary of Interpol's Indonesia National Central Bureau, confirmed the issuance of the red notice and indicated that authorities have a general idea of Chalid's location but did not disclose specifics. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in apprehending Chalid, stating, "We can't specify exactly where he is, but we already know."

Interpol hunts Indonesia’s ‘gasoline godfather’ in $17B graft case

While the red notice represents a significant step in addressing corruption, critics argue that the effectiveness of such measures is often limited by the complexities of international law and the potential for political influence in extradition processes. Some observers have expressed skepticism about whether Chalid will be apprehended given his resources and connections.

Interpol hunts Indonesia’s ‘gasoline godfather’ in $17B graft case

There are discrepancies regarding the exact nature of the allegations against Chalid and the specifics of the corruption case. While the AGO estimates the financial impact at 285 trillion rupiah (around $17 billion), the details surrounding the manipulation of lease agreements and the extent of involvement by other officials remain unclear. Additionally, the current status of Chalid's whereabouts has not been definitively confirmed.

Interpol hunts Indonesia’s ‘gasoline godfather’ in $17B graft case

As the investigation continues, Indonesian authorities are expected to pursue further legal actions against Chalid and his associates. The international community's response to the red notice will be crucial in determining the next steps in this high-profile corruption case.

Interpol hunts Indonesia’s ‘gasoline godfather’ in $17B graft case