Deputy Minister of Immigration and Penitentiary Detained by the KPK, Presidential Palace Reminds of Prabowo's Order to Combat Corruption
The KPK’s designation of Silmy Karim, Deputy Minister of Immigration and Penitentiary, as a suspect in a corruption sting operation has drawn a response from the Presidential Palace.
The Palace affirmed that it will respect the ongoing legal process and immediately take administrative measures in accordance with applicable laws.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the government regrets the recurrence of cases involving state officials in alleged corruption.
“Indeed, in the past two days, we have been very concerned, and this is a recurring event that we clearly do not want to see happen,” said Prasetyo Hadi when contacted via text message, Thursday, June 4, 2026.
This statement came after Silmy Karim left the KPK examination room at the Merah Putih Building, South Jakarta, on Thursday morning. After undergoing an overnight examination, Silmy appeared wearing an orange prisoner’s vest and with both hands handcuffed as he was escorted by investigators at around 08:38 WIB.
For the Palace, this case is ironic in the midst of the government’s ongoing efforts to promote the agenda of combating corruption. Prasetyo emphasized that President Prabowo Subianto has repeatedly reminded all levels of government to stay away from corrupt practices in carrying out their duties.
“In various forums, the President has always reminded us all to improve ourselves and fight against corrupt practices in carrying out our daily tasks,” he said.
Amid public attention on the case, the government has affirmed that it will not intervene in the ongoing legal process. The handling of the case is entirely left to law enforcement officials.
“Of course, the government respects the legal process being carried out by law enforcement officials, both the prosecutor’s office and the KPK,” said Prasetyo.
The Palace also ensured that it would immediately follow up on the status of the position held by officials who are facing legal proceedings.
“And regarding the positions held by those who are undergoing legal proceedings, it will be immediately followed up in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” he said.
However, the Palace has ensured that public services in the Ministry of Immigration and Penitentiary will not be disrupted due to the ongoing legal process.
“And we have also communicated with the Minister of Immigration and Penitentiary to ensure that this event does not disrupt services to the public,” said Prasetyo.