Salemba Prison Conducts Raid Following Inmate Mobile Phone Complaints

The Salemba Class IIA Prison in Central Jakarta has conducted a raid following information circulating on social media regarding the use of communication devices by inmates. “Inmates proven to have violated the rules by possessing and using communication devices have been subjected to disciplinary punishment in accordance with applicable regulations,” said Salemba Prison Head Amico Balalembang in an official statement on Thursday. He explained that a team from the Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections for the Special Capital Region of Jakarta, together with Salemba Prison officers, searched the residential blocks of inmates in Block A and Block C. According to him, this step was taken to ensure the handling process is carried out objectively, transparently, and in accordance with the provisions. During the search, officers confiscated a number of illegal communication devices. As a follow-up, 10 inmates were transferred to other correctional technical implementation units as part of strengthening security and order. Amico stated that the search was conducted to follow up on information from June 2026 regarding photos of several inmates who appeared to be using mobile phones. Nonetheless, Amico stressed that his party does not tolerate any violations of the rules, especially the possession or use of illegal communication devices within the prison. “This measure is a form of commitment to maintaining security and order, as well as realising a correctional system that is safe, orderly, and with integrity,” said Amico. Furthermore, he emphasised that Salemba Prison will strengthen early detection, tighten supervision, conduct regular raids, and optimise the use of the Special Correctional Telecommunications Kiosk as an official communication channel for inmates with their families. In addition, the prison also appreciates the public’s attention and input as part of public oversight of the correctional system. “Supervision, evaluation, and enforcement of rules continue to be carried out to realise a prison that is free from illegal communication devices, illegal levies, and drugs,” Amico asserted.