en.malanginspirasi.com – Deputy Minister of Immigration and Correctional Affairs (Wamen Imipas) Silmy Karim voluntarily surrendered to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) at the Red and White Building around 10:30 PM WIB, Wednesday, June 3rd.
KPK spokespersons confirmed that Karim’s appearance followed an intensive search after a sting operation (OTT) targeting officials at the West Jakarta Immigration Office.
The operation, which began Tuesday night and extended into Wednesday, resulted in the arrest of 17 individuals, including the head of the West Jakarta Immigration Office.
Background of the InvestigationInvestigators allege involvement in corrupt practices related to the processing of residence permits for foreign nationals (WNA), specifically Limited Stay Permits (KITAS) and Permanent Stay Permits (KITAP).
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Karim is being questioned in connection with his prior role as Director General of Immigration (2023–2024), during which the alleged irregularities are said to have occurred.
KPK officials had publicly urged Karim to cooperate and present himself for questioning. Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo noted that the anti-graft body was still gathering evidence and tracing additional parties involved.
Karim’s Career and Recent Activities
Silmy Karim, a seasoned executive with a background in turning around state-owned enterprises (including roles at Krakatau Steel and Barata Indonesia), was appointed Deputy Minister in October 2024 under President Prabowo Subianto.
Prior to that, he led digitalization efforts in immigration services, including e-Visa improvements and passport processing reforms.
In recent months, he had been active in initiatives such as the Safe Migrants Movement for Indonesian workers abroad and inspections of correctional facilities.
As of early Thursday, Karim remains under examination at the KPK.
Authorities have not yet announced formal charges, and the investigation is ongoing.
Sources close to the matter indicate that bodyguards accompanying Karim briefly clashed with journalists outside the building.
