KPK Spokesperson: No fire at Merah Putih Building

Jakarta – Officials at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have clarified that a recent incident involving smoke at their Merah Putih Building was not a fire. Budi Prasetyo, the KPK spokesperson, assured the public that the building remains safe and operational.

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We confirm that there was no fire at the KPK's Merah Putih Building.

The confusion arose on Saturday, August 29, 2026, when smoke was observed emanating from the building. Officers from Sudin Gulkarmat were dispatched to the scene as a precautionary measure. Prasetyo explained that the smoke was a result of a routine fogging operation, a pest control measure, being conducted within the building's premises.

He elaborated that the smoke from the fogging process inadvertently activated the building's sophisticated fire detection system. This system, designed to combat potential electrical fires, automatically released extinguishing smoke. "The fire fighting equipment in the KPK's Merah Putih Building functions by releasing extinguishing smoke to handle potential sparks from electronic devices," Prasetyo stated. The smoke was specifically released in the basement area, near the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) battery room.

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The smoke from the fogging therefore triggered the fire fighting equipment. Then it responded by automatically releasing smoke.

Prasetyo confirmed that the situation was quickly brought under control. The building's General Bureau team is currently working to ventilate the area and conduct further checks to mitigate any potential risks. The incident highlights the sensitivity of modern building safety systems and the importance of clear communication during such events.

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So the smoke that appeared was not from a fire, but from the fire fighting equipment.