Corruption Suspect in Hajj Quota Case, Asrul Aziz Taba, Found to Be in Saudi Arabia
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that it has established communication with Asrul Aziz Taba, a suspect in the alleged corruption case involving the Hajj quota, who is known to be in Saudi Arabia. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated that Asrul’s whereabouts abroad, specifically in Saudi Arabia, were detected based on information from immigration authorities.
“Brother ASR is currently abroad, specifically in Saudi Arabia. Investigators have obtained confirmation from Immigration and have also successfully communicated with the individual,” Budi told reporters in Jakarta on Wednesday.
KPK urges Asrul to return to Indonesia promptly to comply with the examination summons as a suspect. According to Budi, the suspect’s presence is crucial for the investigation to proceed smoothly and be completed swiftly.
“If examination is required in his capacity as a suspect, it is hoped that the individual will comply with the summons. We all certainly want this legal process to be concluded as soon as possible,” he said.
KPK assures that the investigation into the Hajj quota case continues to develop. The tracing efforts are not limited to the designated suspects but also explore potential involvement of other parties. Investigators are currently delving into the roles of various entities, from the Ministry of Religious Affairs environment, Hajj travel agency associations, to Hajj organisers, both before, during, and after the additional quota allocation process.
“This case will continue to evolve. There are several other clusters that investigators are pursuing,” Budi explained.
The investigation into the alleged corruption of the 2023-2024 Hajj quota began on 9 August 2025. On 9 January 2026, KPK named Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and Ishfah Abidal Aziz alias Gus Alex as suspects. An audit by the Financial Audit Board (BPK) received on 27 February 2026 revealed state losses amounting to Rp622 billion, which was announced on 4 March 2026.
Yaqut was initially detained at KPK’s detention centre on 12 March 2026, before his status was changed to house arrest on 19 March 2026 at his family’s request. However, on 24 March 2026, his detention status was reverted to the detention centre.
The latest development occurred on 30 March 2026, when KPK designated two additional suspects: Ismail Adham as Operational Director of Maktour and Asrul Aziz Taba as General Chairman of Kesthuri.
KPK emphasises that it will continue to deepen the case to ensure all involved parties are held accountable and to promote optimal recovery of state losses.