Profile of Lalu Ahmad Zaini, West Lombok Regent Caught in KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Regent of West Lombok, H. Lalu Ahmad Zaini, S.Si., M.T., in a sting operation (OTT) on Monday, 20 July 2026. The arrest is suspected to be related to the receipt of money from a number of projects within the West Lombok Regency Government.

Lalu Ahmad Zaini, familiarly known as LAZ, had only served as Regent of West Lombok for approximately 17 months since his inauguration on 20 February 2025. Before entering politics, the man born in Praya on 27 June 1970 was known as a professional in the drinking water management sector.

Based on his State Officials’ Wealth Report (LHKPN), his professional career included positions as Director of PDAM Lombok Barat (2017–2018), Director of PDAM Giri Menang (2019–2021), and President Director of PT Air Minum Giri Menang Perseroda (2022–2024). He also served as Chairman of the Indonesian Drinking Water Companies Association (PERPAMSI) for the 2021–2025 period.

In the political arena, LAZ held a strategic position as Chairman of the Regional Executive Board of the National Mandate Party (PAN) for West Nusa Tenggara since April 2025. He won the 2024 West Lombok Regional Election alongside running mate Hj. Nurul Adha, securing 107,340 votes or 28.05 per cent of the total valid votes.

During the operation, the KPK detained a total of 19 individuals and sealed several rooms, including the regent’s office and the Public Works Department office. Initial evidence seized included hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash and a number of project documents. Lalu Ahmad Zaini is currently undergoing intensive examination at the KPK’s Red and White Building in Jakarta, with the anti-corruption body having 24 hours to determine the legal status of those caught in the operation.