KPK Enlists Antam and Pegadaian to Verify 55 kg of Platinum Seized from Langkat Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is collaborating with experts from Antam and Pegadaian to verify the authenticity of 55 kilograms of platinum pieces found during a sting operation targeting Langkat Regent Syah Afandin. The evidence was discovered in the regent’s official vehicle. Achmad Taufik Husein, Acting Director of Investigations at the KPK, stated on Monday that the agency is coordinating through official correspondence to confirm the metal’s authenticity, given its potentially fantastic economic value. Based on various sources, the price of platinum ranges from Rp1.6 million to Rp2 million per gram, depending on purity and brand.

The KPK has named Syah Afandin and his 2024 election campaign team member, Yaqub Abdhal Al Mu’arif, as suspects in a bribery case related to projects in Langkat Regency for the 2025-2026 period. Both have been detained for an initial 20 days until 20 July 2026. Syah Afandin is suspected of receiving bribes in violation of the Corruption Eradication Law, while Yaqub is charged under the new Criminal Code for giving bribes.

Beyond the alleged receipt of at least Rp800 million in bribes through intermediaries, the KPK also uncovered evidence of gratuities received by Syah Afandin totalling at least Rp3.5 billion. These are suspected to be linked to the transfer and appointment of officials within the Langkat Education Office and district heads, causing unrest among local civil servants. The case also involves the appointment of primary and secondary school headmasters, where the trading of positions jeopardises not only governance but also the future of children’s education, as well as the procurement of primary school uniforms. The KPK views it as an irony that while many students need school uniforms, their procurement has become a source of corruption. The KPK has called on all regional governments to treat this case as a lesson in achieving clean and transparent governance.