KPK Arrests Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq in Semarang Corruption Sting Operation

Jakarta – The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq in Semarang, Central Java, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption related to procurement within the Pekalongan Regency government. The arrest took place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Details of the Arrest

According to KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo, Fadia Arafiq was apprehended along with an aide in the Semarang area in the early hours of Tuesday morning. “The parties were detained in the Semarang area,” Prasetyo stated. The individuals were subsequently transported to Jakarta for further questioning at the KPK’s Red and White building.

In addition to the Regent, two other individuals – described as trusted persons and aides to Fadia Arafiq – were as well taken into custody. The KPK is currently determining the legal status of all those involved, with a 24-hour window to develop a formal determination.

Political Reaction

Ahmad Doli Kurnia, Vice Chairman of the Golkar Party, expressed concern over the arrest, noting that Fadia Arafiq is a cadre of the party. Golkar has urged all regional heads to learn from recent KPK sting operations and exercise caution in their decision-making. “Of course we are very concerned about this incident,” Doli said. “Regional heads should learn a lesson, be more careful and no longer take policies that have the potential to violate the law.”

Doli emphasized that Golkar consistently reminds its members to uphold public trust and maintain integrity. “the Regent of Pekalongan is a cadre and leader of the Golkar Party, of course we are very disappointed,” he added.

Background

This arrest marks the KPK’s first sting operation (OTT) of 2026. Earlier in January 2026, the KPK conducted two other OTTs, leading to the arrest of the Mayor of Madiun, Maidi, and the Regent of Pati, Sudewo, on separate corruption charges. Kompas and Antara News reported on the arrest.