August 21, 2026 | 01:49 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation targeting the top leadership of Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Purwokerto, Central Java. KPK Chairperson Setyo Budiyanto confirmed that Unsoed Rector Akhmad Sodiq was apprehended alongside Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Noor Farid and Vice Rector for Student Affairs Norman Arie Prayogo.
"The rector was also involved," Setyo said as reported by Antara in Jakarta on Friday, August 21, 2026.
KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo explained that the arrests stem from alleged corruption surrounding new student admissions. "The KPK laments the occurrence of alleged corruption within the education sector, a domain that should not only teach knowledge, but also instill moral values and character," Budi said.
He noted that illicit transactions took place as new students entered higher education, corrupting "gates that should serve as the portal to high ideals and the nation's future."
KPK investigators seized hundreds of millions of rupiah during the operation. In addition, the anti-graft agency detained 12 individuals in Purwokerto and two in Jakarta on August 20.
Following preliminary questioning at the Banyumas Regional Police headquarters, seven of those detained in Central Java were transferred to Jakarta. A total of nine individuals are now undergoing intensive interrogation at the KPK’s Red and White Building.
How Does the Ministry Respond?
Responding to the arrests, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto admitted he only learned of the operation through news coverage. In a written statement released on Friday, Brian noted that his ministry is awaiting official information and investigation results from the KPK before drawing conclusions or taking administrative measures.
"Regarding the law enforcement process, we fully entrust it to the KPK," said the professor from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). He emphasized that the ministry will closely monitor developments and conduct an internal review if higher education administrative issues are identified.
Brian underscored that universities carry a duty to uphold integrity, accountability, and public trust through good governance. "Integrity is the main foundation of any university," he stated.
The minister expressed hope that Unsoed's academic community will maintain a stable campus environment and continue educational, research, and community service activities as normal throughout the legal process.
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