Langkat Regent Accused of Receiving Billions in Gratification

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has accused Langkat Regent Syah Afandin, also known as Ondim, of receiving at least Rp 3.5 billion in gratification, in addition to alleged project kickbacks. The accusations surfaced following Ondim's arrest in a sting operation on July 2, 2026.

KPK's Acting Director of Investigation, Achmad Taufik Husein, detailed three suspected instances of gratification. These include bribes related to personnel mutations and appointments within the Education Department and sub-district head positions, which reportedly caused unrest among civil servants. Further allegations involve gratification for the appointment of elementary and junior high school principals, and for the procurement of elementary school uniforms.

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KPK also found other alleged receipts or gratification by SAF totaling at least Rp 3.5 billion.

"When many students need school uniforms, their procurement has become a corruption loophole," Taufik stated during a press conference in Jakarta. The sting operation led to the arrest of seven people across Langkat Regency, Binjai City, and Medan City. Ondim was apprehended at his private residence in Medan.

While seven individuals were detained, only Ondim and Yaqub Abdh Al Mu'arif, a private party member and Ondim's campaign team member, were named suspects. Ondim faces charges under articles related to bribery and gratification, while Yaqub is charged under the Criminal Code concerning corruption. The KPK investigation revealed Yaqub secured numerous projects in the Education and Housing departments worth billions of rupiah, allegedly after coordinating with officials. Ondim reportedly demanded a fee of 10% to 17% for these projects, receiving approximately Rp 800 million by April 5, 2026.

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When many students need school uniforms, their procurement has become a corruption loophole.