Silmy Karim Hunted by KPK, Immigration Minister: I Do Not Know His Whereabouts
The Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services, Agus Andrianto, has stated that he is unaware of the whereabouts of Deputy Minister Silmy Karim. This statement follows the official announcement by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the search for Silmy in connection with a sting operation (OTT) within the West Jakarta Immigration office.
“I also do not know where he is,” said Agus Andrianto when confirmed via text message in Jakarta on Wednesday (3/6/2026). The Minister did not provide further comment regarding when he last met with Silmy Karim. Similarly, the Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, admitted to losing contact with the Deputy Minister, stating, “I also do not know.”
The case originated from a covert operation conducted by the anti-corruption agency since Tuesday (2/6) night. KPK Vice Chairman Fitroh Rohcahyanto confirmed that this was the 11th sting operation conducted by the KPK throughout 2026. During the operation, the KPK secured dozens of individuals, including the Head of the Class I Non-TPI Immigration Office of West Jakarta, Ronald Arman Abdullah.
KPK investigators are reportedly continuing field operations across Bali and West Java to expand the investigation. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto revealed that the operation pertains to alleged corrupt practices in the processing of residence permits for foreign nationals. The investigation is specifically focusing on the abuse of authority in the issuance of Permanent Stay Permits (KITAP) and Limited Stay Permits (KITAS).
KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo emphasised that authorities are still searching for Silmy Karim to provide further testimony regarding the case. Silmy previously served as the Director General of Immigration at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights from 4 January 2023 to 31 October 2024, before his recent appointment as Deputy Minister.
In accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), the KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained during the sting operation.