Unsoed Rector Akhmad Sodiq Also Caught in KPK Sting Operation
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation (OTT), apprehending members of the rectorate leadership of Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed).
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto confirmed that Unsoed Rector Prof Akhmad Sodiq was among those arrested in the covert operation.
“The Rector was also included,” said Setyo, as quoted from Antara on Friday (21/8).
Setyo also confirmed the arrests of Vice-Rector I for Academic Affairs Prof Noor Farid and Vice-Rector III for Student Affairs and Alumni Prof Norman Arie Prayogo.
“Details of the parties brought to Jakarta, I have not yet updated,” Setyo added.
In accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), the anti-corruption agency has 1 x 24 hours to determine the legal status of the detained parties.
Previously, KPK investigators borrowed an examination room in the building of the Banyumas Police Criminal Investigation Unit in Central Java on Thursday (20/8). The team examined six people for approximately 11 hours from midday until evening.
Those examined were Prof Norman Arie Prayogo, Prof Noor Farid, and Head of the Academic and Student Affairs Division of Unsoed Eko Sumanto (a civil servant). Three other individuals came from outside the university, namely Adhi Wiharto, Dian Mulia Wardhana alias Kating, and Mulyono alias Nono.
According to Media Indonesia’s observations, the KPK entourage left the Banyumas Police headquarters at around 22.45 WIB carrying several bags containing documents. Five people, including Norman Arie Prayoga and Eko Sumanto as well as three private parties, were immediately dispatched to Jakarta in a black car.
As he was escorted by officers towards the vehicle, Norman briefly gave a statement to the media.
“The questions will be continued in Jakarta,” said Norman as he hurried into the car.
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto confirmed the sting operation at Unsoed was related to alleged bribery in the independent medical school admissions pathway. Two vice-rectors and other individuals are being investigated.
Nevertheless, he said the KPK was requesting statements from a number of parties to follow up on public complaint reports.
The KPK urged the public to be wary of extortion and fraud schemes disguised as case management that misuse the institution’s name.
He stated that his agency had repeatedly warned the executive ranks to be careful in running the government.
Evidence seized by KPK investigators was spread across several locations.