Former KPK Leader: Do Not Seize People's Assets Without an Underlying Offence

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Former Commissioner of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Chandra Hamzah, has reminded that the draft law (RUU) on Asset Seizure Related to Criminal Acts should not become a tool for indiscriminately seizing someone’s wealth. He stressed that the RUU on Asset Seizure must clearly regulate which offences allow the state to seize assets. “Do not suddenly seize someone’s assets without an offence, without any offense. This is a right to property ownership recognised by the UN Charter and other international bodies,” Chandra asserted during a hearing with the DPR’s Commission III, quoted from the Youtube broadcast of TVR Parlemen on Wednesday (8/4/2026). According to him, at least three international regulations can serve as references for determining criminal acts subject to asset seizure. First, the criminal acts outlined in the United Nations Convention against Corruption. Second, the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. From these three international rules, asset seizure can at least be directed at criminal acts of corruption, money laundering, and organised crime. “So, not all criminal acts should involve asset seizure,” Chandra emphasised. Previously, the DPR’s Expert Body had prepared and completed the academic paper and draft of the RUU on Asset Seizure Related to Criminal Acts. The Head of the DPR’s Expert Body, Bayu Dwi Anggono, stated that the draft RUU on Asset Seizure consists of eight chapters and 62 articles. This was conveyed by Bayu during a hearing with the DPR’s Commission III on Thursday (15/1/2026). “In the context of why this RUU is important, it ensures that the proceeds of crime cannot be enjoyed by the perpetrators. Primarily, crimes motivated by economic gain and the like, so that they can be recovered,” Bayu said during the hearing on Thursday.