Prosecutor finds Bangun Paulus testimony odd in extortion trial

Prosecutors said defendant Bangun Paulus Tudungta gave testimony that was odd and contradicted witnesses in the alleged extortion and threats trial at the Central Jakarta District Court on Wednesday. Prosecutor Andri Saputra pointed to Bangun's denial of violence against the victim, even though the victim had earlier said he felt traumatized and afraid. Bangun also denied asking for money, while witness Ari said he heard a request for Rp50 juta that was later reduced to Rp30 juta, and witness Philip heard figures of Rp300 juta and Rp200 juta. Prosecutors said electronic chat evidence and witness statements were sufficient. In the indictment, Bangun was charged under Article 482 paragraph (1) letter a and Article 483 letter a of the Criminal Code. The prosecution is scheduled to read its demand on 12 November 2026.