Indonesia's KPK to Detain Two New Suspects in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is poised to detain two additional suspects in an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption surrounding additional Hajj quotas for the 2023-2024 period. The imminent arrests are expected to occur within the next week, according to KPK officials.

The two individuals, identified as Ismail Adham, Director of Operations at PT Makassar Toraja (Maktour), and Asrul Azis Taba, General Chairman of the Association of Kesthuri and Commissioner of PT Raudah Eksati Utama, were officially named suspects on March 30, 2026. Their detention has been pending as investigators meticulously worked to strengthen the evidence.

KPK's Deputy for Enforcement and Execution, Asep Guntur Rahayu, confirmed that the KPK has requested a six-month travel ban for both suspects. He explained that the delay in detention was to ensure the completeness and robustness of evidence, which is crucial for successful prosecution. "We are gathering the evidence first. Once it is complete, we will proceed with the detention," Rahayu stated.

This case involves alleged state losses totaling Rp622 billion. The KPK has already detained two other key figures in connection with the same case: former Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, and his Special Staff, Ishfah Abidal Aziz, also known as Gus Alex. Their cases are proceeding, with the KPK preparing to transfer the case files for Ismail Adham and Asrul Azis Taba to prosecutors for indictment.

Rahayu further elaborated that detaining suspects imposes a strict time limit of 90-120 working days to complete the case file. By ensuring all evidence is gathered beforehand, the KPK aims to avoid releasing suspects due to procedural time constraints, thereby ensuring a thorough investigation and prosecution.