Deputy Minister Silmy Karim Summoned by KPK Amid Immigration Bribery Investigation

The Deputy Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services, Silmy Karim, finally responded to a summons from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Wednesday night. His arrival at the KPK’s Red and White Building in Jakarta drew intense scrutiny after his name was linked to a series of sting operations (OTT) involving alleged bribes for the processing of foreign national stay permits.

According to on-site observations, Silmy arrived at approximately 10:30 PM. The entry of the Deputy Minister was marked by tension, as several aides escorting him formed physical barricades, leading to shoving matches with journalists covering the event. Upon entering the lobby, Silmy offered a brief statement regarding his late arrival, claiming he had to complete several pressing tasks. He declined to provide further details regarding his specific agenda or to comment on his alleged involvement in the bribery case.

The investigation into the ministry official stems from a sting operation conducted by the KPK at the West Jakarta Class I Non-TPI Immigration Office starting Tuesday night. This marks the 11th sting operation carried out by the anti-corruption agency in 2026. The KPK’s investigation focuses on alleged malpractice in the processing of immigration documents.

As of Wednesday night, the KPK confirmed that 17 individuals have been detained as part of this operation. The group includes eight state officials or Civil Servants (ASN) and nine private sector individuals suspected of acting as intermediaries. During the operation, the KPK seized luxury items, including a Mercedes-Benz, Brompton bicycles, and hundreds of grams of gold. The KPK is currently conducting intensive examinations to determine the legal status of all parties involved within a 24-hour period.