Bogus KPK officials 'extorting governors'

JAKARTA: State officials, particularly those in the regions, should be wary of people posing as Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) officials demanding money, the KPK warned on Friday.

"The number of blackmail complaints from governors is increasing. These people pretend to be KPK members or employees and ask local officials, including those who are involved in legal cases, for money or other valuable goods," KPK deputy chairman Erry Riyana Hardjapamekas said.

Governors who have reported cases of blackmail included those from South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, Central, South and North Sulawesi. They all refused to pay any money.

The KPK, which is investigating a graft case involving Aceh Governor Abdullah Puteh, has reported the cases to police.

"KPK employees are not allowed to contact anyone in a private or personal capacity during their work. We all are being monitored through the use of a technological device to ensure transparency," Erry said. -- JP