Ombudsman Discovers Luxury Facilities in Cibinong Prison
The Ombudsman has discovered a fully-equipped luxury room allegedly used by inmates at the Class II A Cibinong Prison, Bogor Regency, West Java.
Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia member Syafrida Rachmawati Rasahan found luxury facilities complete with a living room, bedroom, dining room, kitchen, television, refrigerator, and various household appliances. She also interviewed an individual occupying the facility, who admitted to paying for the privilege of staying there.
However, the Ombudsman has not yet obtained information regarding the amount paid, as the interview was interrupted by arriving prison officers. “Yes, they pay. However, that part remains unconfirmed because officers arrived prematurely,” S/he stated, as quoted from Antara on Wednesday (23/9).
Syafrida estimates that the luxury structure has likely been standing for approximately one year or more. However, the agency is still investigating the timeline of its construction and usage.
Two Unannounced Inspections
Throughout 2026, the Ombudsman has conducted two unannounced inspections (Sidak) at Cibinong Prison: the first in July 2026 and the second in September 2026. During both inspections, the Ombudsman reported being denied entry to conduct thorough examinations. During the second inspection, a confrontation involving pushing occurred between the Ombudsman’s team and prison security officers.
Demand for Demolition
The Ombudsman has ultimately requested that the prison authorities demolish the luxury building within one month. Syafrida stated that the demolition is one of the corrective measures that will be formally submitted to the Directorate General of Corrections (Ditjenpas).
“We will request this as soon as possible. We will likely conduct another inspection in less than a month,” said Syafrida. She emphasised that the luxury building must be demolished before the next unannounced inspection takes place. “It must be demolished,” she added.
The Ombudsman will compile all findings from the inspections into a study report, which will be presented to Ditjenpas alongside several corrective actions.
Restructuring and Security
In addition to the demolition, the Ombudsman plans to propose a restructuring of the leadership and staff at Cibinong Prison. Inmates known to have used the luxury facilities will also be returned to standard prison conditions. Furthermore, the agency intends to tighten security around the prison area, particularly regarding two rear exit gates that were found left open.
“Lastly, we will tighten security and close off exit points, as we discovered two such openings,” said Syafrida. The Ombudsman will continue to monitor the implementation of these corrective measures to ensure improvements are made before the next inspection.