Jakarta, en.SERU.co.id – Metro Jaya Police (Polda Metro Jaya) has detained Richard Lee (also known as Dr. Richard Lee), a doctor and beauty influencer, in connection with an alleged violation of health regulations and consumer protection laws related to beauty products.
The detention followed several instances where he failed to attend police questioning sessions and mandatory reporting obligations. Authorities highlighted his TikTok live-streaming activities during a scheduled examination as evidence of obstructing the investigation.
Kabid Humas Polda Metro Jaya, Kombes Pol Budi Hermanto (known as Buher), explained that the detention was necessary due to the suspect’s uncooperative behavior impeding the ongoing probe.
“He did not attend the additional questioning on March 3 without any clear reason. However, it was known that he was live on TikTok that day,” Buher said, as quoted by CNN Indonesia on Saturday (March 7, 2026).
Additionally, Richard Lee had twice skipped mandatory reporting requirements after being named a suspect: on February 23, 2026, and March 5, 2026, without official explanation.
“Based on these considerations, investigators decided to detain him to facilitate the investigation process,” he added.
Reason for Richard Lee’s TikTok Live
Police revealed that Richard Lee continued his TikTok live session on the day of the scheduled questioning, claiming it was part of his job—promoting beauty products from his company, CV Athena.
“He was promoting products from CV Athena as part of his work. However, this action demonstrates a non-cooperative attitude toward the legal process,” Buher stated.
Case Originates from Dokter Detektif’s Report
The case began with a report filed by Samira Farahnaz, known as Dokter Detektif (or Doktif), at Polda Metro Jaya on December 2, 2024. Following investigation and inquiry stages, police named Richard Lee a suspect on December 15, 2025.
The probe focuses on three beauty products:
- White Tomato — Suspected of not containing ingredients as listed on the label.
- DNA Salmon — Allegedly non-sterile due to inadequate sealing and suspected of being a repackaged product.
- Miss V Stem Cell — Suspected to be a repackaged version of another product called REQ Pink.
These items were purchased via online marketplaces as evidence in Doktif’s complaint.
Doktif Expresses Relief
Responding to the detention, Doktif expressed gratitude, feeling her long efforts had finally paid off. She even plans to hold a communal iftar (breaking the fast) gathering as a form of thanks during Ramadan.
“Alhamdulillah, in this Ramadan month, Allah has shown His power. The process was long and quite draining physically and mentally,” she concluded. (aan/rhd)
