KPK Investigate Detainees Who Are Coordinator Of Detention Extortion Through Azis Syamsuddin

DOCUMENTATION/Azis Syamsuddin during a case at the KPK

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) examined former DPR member Azis Syamsuddin as a witness to alleged illegal levies (extortion) at the KPK Detention Center on Tuesday, May 22 yesterday.

Head of the KPK News Section Ali Fikri said Azis was being questioned about detainees suspected of being the coordinator to collect extortion. This figure is said to be appointed by the perpetrators.

"Witnesses were present and confirmed regarding the alleged existence of one of the detainees appointed as the coodinator for collecting money from detainees in the KPK branch detention center," Ali told reporters, Wednesday, May 22.

In addition, investigators also asked Azis for information regarding the additional facilities he received when he was a resident of the KPK detention center. This is because he is suspected of giving money to the suspects in this case.

"It was also investigated regarding the alleged receipt of facilities while being detained at the KPK branch detention center because they had given some money to the suspect et al," he said.

Previously reported, there were 15 people who were suspected of extortion in the KPK detention center. They include the Head of the KPK Detention Center Achmad Fauzi, former Acting KPK Karutan Deden Rochendi and Ristanta, and Hengki who are ex-Kamtib Detention Centers.

The suspects allegedly managed to collect up to Rp6.3 billion for four years starting 2019-2023. The money was obtained from detainees in corruption cases with a variety of between Rp300 thousand to Rp20 million. The handover is carried out directly or through a holding bank account controlled by the lurah and corting.

Prisoners then get exclusive facilities after giving money. One of them can use a cellphone or power bank.

Meanwhile, those who do not pay or are late in depositing receive uncomfortable treatment. Among them, the detention room is locked from the outside, violations and reductions in sports rations, and gets a guard quota and more hygiene pickets.

In addition, the KPK also imposed disciplinary penalties on employees involved. A total of 66 people were fired after receiving a decree.