KPK questions 13 witnesses in immigration bribery case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is actively pursuing a bribery investigation involving alleged extortion within the Directorate General of Immigration. On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, the KPK summoned 13 witnesses for questioning regarding the processing of foreign national stay permits. The interrogations are being conducted simultaneously in Jakarta and Bali.

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It was carried out in two different places, the examination at the KPK Red and White Building and the Denpasar Police.

The investigation has identified several key figures, including former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Correctional Affairs Silmy Karim, along with eight other officials and employees from the Directorate General of Immigration. Among the named suspects are former Acting Director General of Immigration Saffar Muhammad Godam, Director of Stay Permits Jaya Saputra, and Head of the Class I Special Non-TPI Immigration Office of West Jakarta Ronald Arman Abdullah.

According to the KPK, the investigation into this alleged corruption scheme originated from a previous case concerning the employment of foreign workers at the Ministry of Manpower. The alleged illegal activities reportedly occurred while Silmy Karim held the position of Director General of Immigration between 2023 and 2024.

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This closed investigation began as a follow-up to a case of planned use of foreign labor at the Ministry of Manpower.

Investigators estimate that the illicit funds generated from the processing of foreign worker permits could total Rp 357 billion. Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) data indicates these funds were moved through 96 different bank accounts over a six-year period, from 2019 to 2025. The KPK believes these funds originated from individuals and entities seeking immigration services, suggesting a systemic issue of bribery and extortion within the department.

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It is suspected to originate from applicants for immigration service.