Family of Former Labour Minister Noel Ebenezer to Apply for Change of Detention

JAKARTA - The family of former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer, alias Noel, plans to submit a request to the panel of judges for a transfer of detention. This application comes after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) transferred the detention of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas from a detention centre to house arrest. Aziz views this as an injustice in handling his client’s case. He states that Noel was not given the opportunity to undergo inpatient treatment, despite needing medical attention. In fact, Aziz says, Noel is experiencing issues with blood vessels in his head, requiring hospital treatment. “We previously saw a clear injustice. Our client was not given the chance for inpatient care last week based on the panel of judges’ decision, which was based on considerations from the KPK,” said Aziz. Aziz also alluded to the transfer of Yaqut’s detention as special treatment not given to other detainees. The request for Noel’s detention transfer will be submitted after the Eid al-Fitr 1447 H holiday and collective leave period ends. Previously, the KPK transferred Yaqut’s detention from a detention centre to house arrest. Budi stated that the transfer was made following a request from the family submitted on Tuesday (17/3/2026). “Following that request, it was reviewed and granted based on considerations in accordance with Article 108 paragraphs (1) and (11) of Law No. 20 of 2025 on the Criminal Procedure Code,” he said. In the case involving Noel, prosecutors charge that he, along with several parties, received around Rp 6.5 billion from extortion related to the management of K3 certificates and licences since 2021. Noel is said to have received Rp 3.36 billion and one motorcycle from related parties. The money was not reported to the KPK within 30 days, so it is considered gratuity.