Regent of Rejang Lebong Caught in Anti-Corruption Commission Sting Operation, Suspected Bribery Over Project Contract

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) confirmed that it has secured at least 13 people in a sting operation conducted in the Bengkulu region. Of the many people arrested, nine of them were flown to Jakarta to undergo intensive examination.

“Of the 13 people, the team will bring 9 people for further investigation in Jakarta,” said KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo at the Red and White Building of the KPK in South Jakarta, Tuesday (10 March).

Suspected Project Bribery

Based on information gathered, one of the parties brought to Jakarta was Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari. This covert operation is strongly suspected to be related to bribery practices in project work in that region. “Suspected to be related to project bribery,” said Budi.

In the operation, the KPK enforcement team also secured a sum of cash in rupiah as evidence. However, the anti-corruption body has not yet been able to detail the total value of the money seized as it is still being counted and clarified.

Determination of Legal Status

In accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), the KPK has 1 x 24 hours to determine the legal status of those arrested in the sting operation.

Certainty regarding the construction of the case, the articles charged, and the designation of suspects will be officially announced by the KPK leadership through a press conference in the near future.