Facts About KPK Arrest Operation on Regent of Rejang Lebong

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted an arrest operation (Operasi Tangkap Tangan/OTT) on Monday evening, 9 March, in Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu Province.

The operation resulted in 13 individuals being arrested, with five subsequently designated as suspects following an initial investigation. According to KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo, the initial examination of those arrested was conducted at Kepahiang Police Station and Bengkulu City Police Station.

Nine of the 13 detained individuals were transported to KPK headquarters in Jakarta on Tuesday morning, 10 March. These comprised the Regent, Deputy Regent Hendra, three civil servants from Rejang Lebong Regency Government, and four private sector individuals.

The KPK alleges that the Regent and other parties were involved in bribery related to government projects within Rejang Lebong Regency. The operation secured evidence including documents, electronic materials, and hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash.

Of the five designated suspects, three are private sector actors accused of offering bribes, whilst two are state officials accused of receiving bribes, including the Regent.

Following the operation, the National Mandate Party (PAN) Central Leadership Board removed Muhammad Fikri Thobari from his position as Chairman of the PAN Regional Board of Rejang Lebong. According to Deputy Chairman of the PAN Central Leadership Board Viva Yoga Mauladi, the party is respecting the ongoing legal process at the KPK. The position of Regional Board Chairman has been temporarily assumed by the PAN Provincial Leadership Board of Bengkulu.