Outrage! RI Ombudsman Chairman Arrested by Attorney General's Office, Sworn In April Now Wearing Detainee Vest

Jakarta – The figure who has just assumed the top leadership position at the Indonesian Ombudsman is now facing the law. The Chairman of the Republic of Indonesia Ombudsman, Hery Susanto, was arrested by the Attorney General’s Office (Kejagung) in a move that has stunned the public.

This arrest has drawn widespread attention because Hery has not yet completed a month in his role as Chairman of the Ombudsman for the 2026–2031 period. He was inaugurated in April 2026 by the President, replacing Mokhammad Najih.

The atmosphere of the arrest did not escape notice. Hery was seen exiting under tight escort by law enforcement officers. His appearance contrasted sharply with his position as a high-ranking state official.

Hery wore a t-shirt with the PLN logo covered by the characteristic Kejaksaan detainee vest. While handcuffed, he was led to the detainee vehicle.

To date, Kejagung has not revealed the details of the case ensnaring Hery. Both the type of case and the legal construction charged remain a mystery.

This arrest has sparked broad interest, given that the Ombudsman is an institution long known as a supervisor of public services and guardian of state institutional accountability.

Previously, it was reported that Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the inauguration of 9 members of the Indonesian Ombudsman for the 2026–2031 period at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday, 10 April 2026.

The previous Ombudsman members had undergone a fit and proper test at the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI).

During the oath-taking ceremony, the male members of the Indonesian Ombudsman appeared coordinated, wearing black suits, blue ties, and black peci caps.

“I swear by Allah, I promise by God. That in this position, directly or indirectly, using any name or method whatsoever, anything to anyone. I swear to fulfil my obligations as a member of the Ombudsman as justly as possible. I swear not to do anything in this position, never to accept directly or indirectly from anyone any promise or giving,” stated a member of the Indonesian Ombudsman.

The following is the list of Indonesian Ombudsman members:

1. Hery Susanto (Chairman兼member);

2. Rahmadi Indra Tektona (Deputy Chairman兼member);

3. Abdul Ghoffar (member);

4. Fikri Yasin (member);

5. Maneger Nasution (member);

6. Nuzran Joher (member);

7. Partono (member);

8. Robertus Na Endi Jaweng (member); and