Raid on Tulungagung Regent, Emil Pushes for Strengthened Oversight

Deputy Governor of East Java Emil Elestianto Dardak has responded to the Corruption Eradication Commission’s (KPK) sting operation (OTT) against Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo. Emil stated that his side would improve local government governance.

“We need to fix the governance,” said Emil Dardak in Surabaya on Tuesday, 14 April 2026.

As a result of this OTT, Emil also said that his side would conduct evaluations and guidance for regional heads in East Java. Primarily regarding supervision and corruption prevention that has been developed by the KPK.

“There are four things developed by the KPK, namely control, monitoring, supervision, and prevention. These are developed by the KPK in aspects of procurement, appointment of positions, budget planning, and asset management,” he explained.

Emil stated that the East Java Provincial Government actually routinely conducts guidance to regions for corruption prevention. However, he believes that there are people who can deviate from those principles.

However, this former Trenggalek Regent mentioned that human hearts vary. There are always those who can deviate from the applicable rules.

“I mentioned earlier, who knows what’s in the heart. Therefore, we must continue to improve,” he said.

Emil also commented on the new modus operandi used by Gatut Sunu Wibowo in committing corruption. He will request supervision from the KPK to fix the system in local government.

“Well, when encountering a new modus, it must be quickly addressed. We will consult with all parties, including requesting KPK supervision,” he stressed.

For information, there have already been three regional heads in East Java caught in KPK OTTs since the 2024 Regional Elections. Among others, Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko in November 2025, Madiun Mayor Maidi in January 2026, and Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo.