KPK Affirms Return of Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to Detention Centre Follows Procedure
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has affirmed that the transfer of detention for the suspect in the alleged corruption case of Hajj quotas, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, was carried out in accordance with applicable legal mechanisms.
This affirmation comes after the public highlighted the detention status of the former Minister of Religious Affairs, which temporarily shifted from a detention centre to house arrest before he was returned to the KPK detention cell.
“KPK ensures that all processes and steps taken have been conducted in accordance with mechanisms, procedures, and applicable legal regulations,” stated KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo in Jakarta on Wednesday (25/3/2026).
The legal dynamics surrounding Yaqut have been quite rapid. After his pre-trial application was rejected by the South Jakarta District Court on 11 March 2026, KPK immediately carried out detention at the Red White Building Branch Detention Centre the following day.
However, upon the family’s request, KPK temporarily granted a change in status to house arrest on 19 March 2026. This “special” status did not last long. On 23 March, the anti-corruption agency processed the detention transfer again and officially returned Yaqut to the detention centre on 24 March 2026.
The case implicating Yaqut and his special staff, Ishfah Abidal Aziz alias Gus Alex, relates to the management of Indonesia’s Hajj quota for 2023-2024. Based on an audit by the Financial Audit Board (BPK) of Indonesia received by KPK, the state financial loss in this case amounts to Rp622 billion.
To date, investigators continue to probe the flow of funds and the involvement of other parties. Although Gus Alex previously claimed there was no money flow to Yaqut while heading to the detention vehicle, KPK proceeds based on sufficient evidence and the audit results showing clear state losses.
This Hajj quota corruption case is one of the major scandals attracting public attention as it concerns the pilgrimage rights of many people. KPK is committed to resolving this case transparently.