Indonesian Regent Arrested in Extortion Sting, Politician Mocks Imitation of Rival Party Official

Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani and two other officials were detained by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Saturday, July 11, 2026, following a sting operation on Thursday, July 9. The charges involve alleged extortion of regional officials within Sukoharjo Regency.

Richard Tri Handoko, Head of the Financial and Asset Management Agency (BPKAD), and Tri Mulyo, Head of the General Affairs Bureau of the Sukoharjo Regional Secretariat, were also arrested. The KPK's operation targeted alleged extortionate practices by these officials.

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Extortion? Blackmail? Well, that's what's concerning, our regional leaders still want to do that? Oh, corrupt behaviors like that should disappear, especially from leaders.

Ronald A. Sinaga, Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), voiced his dismay at the continued corruption among regional leaders. He questioned the alleged actions, stating, "Extortion? Blackmail? Well, that's what's concerning, our regional leaders still want to do that? Oh, corrupt behaviors like that should disappear, especially from leaders."

Sinaga also made a veiled jab at Hasto Kristiyanto, the Secretary-General of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI Perjuangan), referencing his legal troubles. "Maybe they want to follow the style of the Secretary-General, I don't know," Sinaga remarked. Previously, PDI Perjuangan Central Java had acknowledged the arrest of Etik Suryani, affirming their respect for the ongoing legal proceedings.

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Maybe they want to follow the style of the Secretary-General, I don't know.