Langkat Deputy Regent Weeps as KPK Arrests Bupati Ondim

Langkat Deputy Regent Tiorita Br Surbakti was unable to hide her grief after learning that Bupati Syah Afandin, known as Ondim, had been caught in a sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

When asked for her response by journalists, Tiorita repeatedly wiped away tears with a tissue. She stated that she respects the principle of presumption of innocence regarding the case involving her superior. ‘I respect the principle of presumption of innocence,’ she said while dabbing her eyes on Friday (3/7).

She called on the people of Langkat to pray for Syah Afandin, asking that he be granted health and strength in facing his current legal challenges. ‘I pray, I prostrate, so that all of us in Langkat Regency pray that the Regent is always under the protection of Allah SWT. And I hope the family remains resilient in facing this test,’ she explained.

Tiorita also admitted that she had not yet received further information regarding a civil servant from the Langkat Regency Government who was also reportedly detained during the KPK operation. ‘I don’t know. It hasn’t reached me yet,’ she said.

She added that the last time she met the Regent was two days ago during the Bhayangkara Day anniversary commemoration. ‘Last night or two days ago I met him during Bhayangkara Day. Oh dear, I can’t speak anymore. I hope the Regent stays healthy, takes care of his health, and always prays,’ she explained.

Bupati Langkat, Syah Afandin, also known as Ondim, was caught in a sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission in North Sumatra on Thursday (2/7). He is suspected of receiving bribes from projects under the Langkat Education Agency and the Langkat Housing and Settlement Agency.