Jakarta, IO – The money belonged to the Indonesian badminton team competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Monday (5/8). The crime was allegedly carried out by a syndicate in a “flat tire scam” which befell the team’s manager, Armand Darmadji. He explained that the theft occurred at around 5.30pm local time around the Madeleine bus stop in Paris.
Armand detailed that the total money stolen was equivalent to 53,000 euros. It was the collective money of 53 members of the badminton team, comprising athletes and officials.
“The team is scheduled to return home tomorrow. The plan was for us to meet the team at 7pm, but on the way it was stolen by a theft syndicate,” said Armand, as per CNN Indonesia, Tue (6/8).
Armand said the incident started when the rear tire of the car went flat. He found out about it after being told by his friend. He then stepped out to check the tire and contacted the car rental company to replace it. The company asked for the location of the incident. Because there was a police officer behind the car, Armand asked the police to explain the location.
Read: Health Ministry clarifies on govt’s plan to provide contraceptives for teenage students
“When I returned, the bag was gone. It contained a passport, wallet, credit card and money belonging to PBSI [The Indonesian Badminton Association],” said Armand.
Meanwhile, Indonesian badminton team only managed to clinch bronze medal in the women’s singles event thanks to Gregoria Mariska Tunjung. (un)