Three Regents in Central Java Caught in Sting Operations; KPK Denies Targeting Specific Regions

Jakarta — The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has denied targeting specific regions in conducting sting operations (operasi tangkap tangan).

“In reality, there is no such thing. We do not target one particular region. What we focus on are individual officials — specifically regional heads for whom we have received reports,” said KPK Deputy for Enforcement and Execution Asep Guntur Rahayu during a press conference at KPK headquarters on Saturday (14 March 2026).

In recent months, several state officials arrested through sting operations have been from Central Java.

Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq was named a suspect on Wednesday (4 March 2026) in connection with alleged corruption regarding outsourcing services procurement and other procurement activities at Pekalongan Regency for the 2023-2026 budget year.

Pati Regent Sudewo was caught in a sting operation on Tuesday (20 January 2026) in relation to extortion charges related to village official appointments.

Asep noted that the KPK conducts sting operations not only in Central Java but also in other regions.

Another official, identified as Fikri, was arrested during a KPK sting operation on Monday (9 March 2026) evening.

Asep referenced a warning issued by Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi concerning the frequent arrests of regents in his province.

“Especially after already being warned by the Governor. Warned by us, they don’t listen; warned by the Governor, they don’t listen either,” Asep added.

The KPK subsequently processed the reports it had received.

“So there is no bias towards any particular region, but we will take action whenever a regional head commits acts of corruption,” Asep affirmed.