Indonesia's KPK seals deputy minister's home amid corruption probe

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sealed the Jakarta residence of Silmy Karim, the Deputy Minister of Immigration and Penitentiary. The action follows Karim's designation as a suspect in a corruption case linked to the processing of residency permits for foreign nationals.

The sealing of the house in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, is part of the ongoing investigation after an arrest operation. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo confirmed that the agency placed seals on several locations within the property, anticipating future searches as the investigation progresses. Details regarding the specific areas sealed remain undisclosed.

KPK investigators allege that the offenses occurred while Karim served as the Director General of Immigration. The case reportedly involves allegations of extortion and gratification related to immigration document processing. This investigation has led to the detention of eight individuals, including Karim, who are now held for an initial 20-day period.

Those detained alongside Karim include Saffar Muhammad Godam, acting Director General of Immigration; Jaya Saputra, Director of Stay Permits and Immigration Status; Tessar Bayu Setyaji and Bagus Bramantyo, both from the Directorate of Stay Permits and Immigration Status; Ronald Arman Abdullah, former head of the Central Jakarta Immigration Office and Class I Special Non-TPI Jakarta Barat Immigration Office; Juniadi Sri Priambudi, head of the Stay Permit Alternative Status Team; and Gusti Benardiansyah, a staff member in the Stay Permit Sub-directorate. Their designation as suspects is based on sufficient evidence gathered by investigators.