Profile of Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari, Former Property Entrepreneur Caught in KPK Anti-Corruption Operation
Muhammad Fikri Thobari suddenly became the focus of national attention after the Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) conducted a sting operation (OTT) in the Bengkulu region on Tuesday, 10 March. Fikri, who had been serving as Regent of Rejang Lebong for approximately one year, is alleged to have been involved in bribery practices related to infrastructure projects in his jurisdiction.
Born in Baturaja on 4 February 1981, this 45-year-old man possesses a strong educational background in economics and public administration. He is the son of bureaucratic parents, with his father, M. Thobari Muad, having served as Deputy Chair II of the Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) of Kepahiang Regency.
Before entering the bureaucratic sphere, Fikri Thobari was better known as an entrepreneur in the property sector. He served as President Director of PT Bukit Juvi Group. His experience in business made him an active leader of various business organisations at the regional and provincial levels.
His victory in the 2024 Regional Election represented an achievement after he had previously failed in the 2019 Regional Election contest. He was formally inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto on 20 February 2025.
On 10 March 2026, the KPK confirmed the arrest of Fikri Thobari in a sting operation in Bengkulu. He is suspected of receiving bribes related to project work within the Rejang Lebong Regency government. Several quantities of cash in Rupiah currency were also secured as evidence.
Based on the Statement of Assets of State Officials (LHKPN) that he reported when running as a candidate in 2024, Fikri has total assets amounting to Rp32.4 billion. However, because he has debts of Rp12.9 billion, his total net wealth is recorded at Rp19.5 billion. These assets are dominated by 14 plots of land and buildings in the Bengkulu region.
The KPK brought nine individuals related to the sting operation in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu to the Red and White Building in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 March. This covert operation is strongly suspected to be related to bribery practices in project execution in the region.