KKP Minister Edhy Prabowo Arrested, President Jokowi: Respect The Law, I Believe The KPK Is Professional

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo finally opened his voice regarding the arrest of Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Edhy Prabowo by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

In an interview on the terrace of the State Palace, Jokowi emphasized that he respects the ongoing legal process. Jokowi does not want the government to intervene in Edhy's investigation regarding the alleged corruption in the lobster seed export.

"Of course, we respect the legal process that is currently underway at the KPK. We respect it," said Jokowi in a YouTube broadcast of the Presidential Secretariat, Wednesday, November 25.

Jokowi then emphasized that the KPK was working professionally.

"I believe that the KPK works transparently, openly, professionally. The government consistently supports efforts to prevent and eradicate corruption," he said.

Previously reported, the Chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Firli Bahuri confirmed that his men arrested the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Edhy Prabowo.

This arrest was made by the prosecution team after Edhy Prabowo and his entourage arrived at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Cengkareng, Tangerang, to be precise at Terminal 3 of Honolulu, Hawaii, United States.

"Last night KP Minister was secured by the KPK at Soekarno-Hatta Airport 3 when he returned from Honolulu," said Firli in his statement.

The former Deputy for Enforcement said that Edhy was arrested because he was suspected of being involved in corruption in the issuance of the export permit for lobster fries or seeds.

"Now he is at the KPK for questioning. Please give the deputy team time to work first," he said.

Deputy Chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Nurul Ghufron said Edhy's arrest was made because of alleged corruption related to the export of lobster fries or seeds.

"The KPK has been arrested in connection with the export of fry," he said.

After carrying out an arrest or hand-arrest operation (OTT), the KPK then has 1x24 hours to determine the legal status of the parties that are secured in this OTT. It is not yet known when the KPK will hold a conference related to this OTT.