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View all search results1.5-year sentence for sandals thief sparks corruption debate
Netizens have taken to social media to criticize the verdict, comparing it to cases in which public officials received similar or even lighter sentences for embezzling billions of rupiah in state funds.
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A rallygoer holds up a poster on May 1 that reads “Death to corruptors, let the people judge!“ during the Labor Day rally at the National Monument (Monas) complex in Jakarta. (Antara/Fauzan)
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North Sumatran man has been handed a 1.5-year prison sentence for stealing a pair of sandals from his former boss, prompting a wave of public criticism over what many see as an unequal justice system that punishes the poor more harshly than corrupt elites.
Netizens have taken to social media to criticize the verdict, comparing it to cases in which public officials received similar or even lighter sentences for embezzling billions of rupiah in state funds.
Last week, the Medan District Court sentenced 32-year-old Nefri Zaldi, a resident of Deli Serdang Regency, to 1.5 years in prison for stealing a pair of Hermes sandals from the home of his former employer, Siwaji Raja, in an incident that occurred late last year.
According to court findings, Nefri and a friend, Andika Gumtom, visited Siwaji’s residence on the afternoon of December 28, 2024. As they were leaving the property, Nefri took a pair of Hermes sandals from the shoe rack, an act witnessed directly by Andika.
Several days later, a witness named Ravindra informed Andika that Siwaji had lost a pair of sandals valued at Rp 15 million (US$ 916). Andika then told Ravindra that he had seen Nefri take the sandals during their visit.
The information prompted Siwaji to file a police report. Nefri was arrested on March 21, and the trial began on June 24.
Read also: The endless pursuit of a fair criminal justice system
