28-9-2023 (JAKARTA) Indonesia intends to sue the United Kingdom’s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) in an effort to secure a portion of the 991 million euro (US$1.04 billion) bribery settlement paid by aerospace company Airbus to the British government, according to the country’s Law Minister. The move comes as part of Indonesia’s pursuit of fairness in the matter, as it was one of the countries affected by the bribery scandal.
Airbus, the largest aircraft manufacturer globally, agreed to the substantial payout in 2020 as part of a historic $4 billion settlement with France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The settlement came after a 3.5-year criminal investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption involving Airbus.
The investigation covered several countries, including Indonesia, where corrupt conduct by Airbus was alleged. Law Minister Yasonna Laoly informed Reuters that Indonesia would take legal action against the UK’s Serious Fraud Office, which conducted the investigation, in order to obtain a share of the settlement. Laoly stressed that Indonesia had been one of the victim countries and that they were seeking fairness in the matter. The Southeast Asian nation is currently consulting with its legal counsel in Britain.
Laoly also stated that Indonesia had provided evidence during the investigation. The Financial Times first reported the minister’s comments earlier this week.
In response, a representative from the UK government emphasized the value placed on their partnership with Indonesia in combatting international crime. The spokesperson stated that the UK remains committed to fulfilling its international obligations in accordance with due process. The statement was issued late on Wednesday.
