BNPB Confirms It Will Not Intervene in Legal Processes Following KPK Operation
Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has formally announced it will maintain a hands-off approach to ongoing corruption investigations being conducted by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), emphasizing full respect for law enforcement procedures.
Acting Head of BNPB's Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center, Berton S.P. Panjaitan, issued a statement on Tuesday confirming the agency's commitment to non-interference. "BNPB will not intervene in any way in the investigation and inquiry processes being conducted by law enforcement agencies," he declared in written remarks.
The statement comes in response to an anti-corruption operation carried out by the KPK at BNPB facilities on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. During the operation, several individuals were detained, though specific details regarding their identities and the nature of the alleged corruption have not been publicly disclosed.
Cooperation and Legal Principles
While pledging cooperation with investigators, BNPB leadership stressed adherence to fundamental legal protections. "BNPB upholds the principle of presumption of innocence," Panjaitan stated, adding that the agency "is committed to being cooperative and will provide data support and access to necessary information in accordance with applicable laws."
The disaster management body has initiated its own internal review in parallel with the external investigation. Agency leadership has directed the Main Inspectorate to conduct an internal inquiry and secure relevant documentation as part of standard oversight procedures.
Maintaining Operational Focus
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, BNPB has emphasized that its core disaster management functions will continue uninterrupted. The agency called on all personnel to maintain focus on disaster response and humanitarian duties without being distracted by the investigation.
"BNPB requests the public and the media to await the official results from law enforcement and to refrain from speculation," Panjaitan said, adding that the organization "reaffirms its commitment to strengthen governance, integrity, and enhance internal oversight."
Details of KPK Operation
KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto confirmed that the commission had secured several individuals during Tuesday's operation, all of whom are currently under interrogation. However, the anti-corruption body has not released information about which BNPB officials were apprehended or the specific corruption allegations they face.
The operation involved visible security presence, with military-plated vehicles reported in the BNPB lobby during the enforcement action. The KPK has indicated it will conduct a full case disclosure, though timing for public release of findings has not been specified.
As the investigation proceeds, BNPB has requested that stakeholders allow law enforcement to complete its work according to proper legal channels while the agency continues serving its disaster management mandate for the Indonesian population.
