KPK Arrests Rejang Lebong Regent and Deputy Regent in Bribery Case

Jakarta – The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari and Deputy Regent Hendri in a sting operation (OTT) conducted in Bengkulu on Monday, March 9, 2026. The arrests are linked to allegations of bribery related to local projects.

Details of the Arrests

According to KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo, a total of 13 individuals were secured during the operation. Initial questioning of the 13 individuals took place at the Kepahiang Police and Bengkulu Police stations . Nine of those arrested were subsequently transported to Jakarta for further investigation at the KPK Red and White building.

The nine individuals brought to Jakarta include Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari, Deputy Regent Hendri, three civil servants (ASN) from the Rejang Lebong Regency Government, and four individuals from the private sector .

Evidence Seized

During the operation, KPK investigators confiscated several items, including documents and cash . The exact amount of cash seized has not yet been disclosed.

Allegations of Bribery

The KPK suspects the arrests are connected to bribery related to projects within the Rejang Lebong Regency Government . Further details regarding the specific projects and the nature of the alleged bribery are expected to be revealed during a press conference.

Next Steps

The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those arrested . An announcement regarding the suspects and the details of the case will be made at a press conference.

Background on Muhammad Fikri Thobari

Muhammad Fikri Thobari is the current Regent of Rejang Lebong, serving a term from 2025-2030 . Born on February 4, 1981, he too leads the Regional Leadership Council (DPD) of the PAN party in Rejang Lebong Regency. He won the Rejang Lebong Regency election in 2024 alongside Hendri, securing 63,691 votes, or approximately 44.07% of the total valid votes . Prior to his role as Regent, Fikri Thobari served as Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) of Rejang Lebong Regency since 2021 .