Indonesia suspends five officials over luxury apartments for inmates

What the report says

Indonesia’s Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has suspended five officials, including the chief of Cibinong prison near Jakarta, after investigators found an apartment-style compound inside the facility that was allegedly used by inmates. The announcement was made by inspector general Rudi Setiawan, following a surprise inspection by Indonesia’s Ombudsman on September 23. The prison is in Bogor, near the capital, and the compound was described as separate from the normal cellblocks.

According to the Ombudsman and ministry officials cited by Al Jazeera, the area contained more than 10 units and had amenities such as air-conditioners, large televisions, refrigerators, sofas and dining spaces. Investigators also reported a gym, a golf simulator under construction and luxury vehicles on the grounds. Officials said dozens of inmates and prison staff had been questioned as part of the inquiry.

The buildings were reportedly meant for prison personnel housing, but investigators are examining whether they were turned into unauthorized accommodation for prisoners. The case has renewed attention on long-running concerns about corruption and preferential treatment in Indonesia’s prisons, where wealthy or well-connected inmates have often been accused of obtaining special privileges. Lawmakers and anti-corruption groups are now seeking clarity on which inmates used the facilities and whether payments were involved.