Independent Report – Former West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil states that he does not know about the alleged corruption in Bank Jabar Banten (BJB). The case has linked his name and led to the seizure of several documents at his residence by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). However, Ridwan Kamil explains that during his tenure, the media advertising budget of BJB remained under the responsibility of the Regional-Owned Enterprises (BUMD), so he did not receive any reports regarding the alleged markup.
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Ridwan Kamil clarified that he usually received reports from the Head of the BUMD Bureau or the Commissioner representing the governor. However, in this case, he did not receive any information, so he remains unaware of the suspected irregularities in BJB’s media advertising budget.
Regarding the Rp70 billion deposit that KPK investigators seized, Ridwan Kamil firmly states that the money does not belong to him. He also denies that KPK seized any deposit from his residence during the search. According to him, KPK did not confiscate any cash or deposits from his home.
After the search, Ridwan Kamil continues his daily activities as usual. However, he admits that he has been posting less frequently on social media. Despite this, he assures that he remains active as normal.
KPK’s investigation into this case has covered 12 locations, including Ridwan Kamil’s residence in Bandung, West Java. This search aims to gather evidence related to the alleged corruption in BJB.
The Acting Director of KPK Investigations, Budi Sokmo Wibowo, reveals that investigators prioritized Ridwan Kamil’s house during the searches. He explains that strong evidence led them to his residence as part of the ongoing investigation. According to Budi, the decision to search Ridwan Kamil’s house resulted from prior analysis.
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Budi emphasizes that conducting searches plays a crucial role in the investigation. However, he refrains from disclosing specific details about the findings. Over three days of searching multiple locations, KPK’s investigation team uncovered numerous important documents containing financial transaction records.
The searches allowed KPK to seize several pieces of evidence suspected of being linked to this corruption case. The confiscated items include financial documents, records of non-budgetary expenses, and assets in the form of cash and deposits. KPK also took possession of luxury vehicles, land assets, houses, and buildings believed to have connections to this case.
According to Budi, investigators mapped out individuals who benefitted from the non-budgetary funds. He confirms that KPK seized approximately Rp70 billion in deposits and several two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.
As the case develops, KPK continues to examine various pieces of evidence and identify other individuals involved in BJB’s alleged corruption. The agency aims to ensure transparency and accountability in managing public funds.
This case has drawn significant attention because it involves Ridwan Kamil, a public figure with a previously strong reputation. Despite this, he maintains that he had no knowledge or involvement in the suspected markup of BJB’s media advertising budget. He has pledged to comply with KPK’s legal process and follow the investigation according to established procedures.
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