KBRN, Jakarta: The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto for an alleged bribery and obstruction of investigation since Thursday, February 20, 2025.

Hasto i charged with violation against Law No. 20/2001 on Corruption Eradication, His detention aims to ensure a smooth investigation process and prevent disappearance of evidence that could potentially affect the legal process, rri.co.id reported.

The KPK has at least three reasons why the anti-corruption body finally decided to detain Hasto.

First is to prevent the suspect from fleeing. The KPK is considering the possibility that Hasto fled, because he is suspected of involvement in the escape of Harun Masiku, who remains at large up to presently.

Second is to prevent possible removal of evidence. Hasto allegedly ordered the destruction of evidence by submerging a cell phone in water to erase communication history.

Third is possible attempts to obstruct Investigation. Hasto allegedly influenced witnesses to provide false statements to KPK investigators, potentially hindering the investigation.

KPK named Hasto as a suspect in two cases. First, an alleged bribery related to the interim replacement of Harun Masiku as a legislative member in the 2019-2024 House of Representatives. Second, an alleged obstruction of the investigation into the case.

Hasto is accused of being involved in giving bribes to former General Election Commission (KPU) Commissioner Wahyu Setiawan to secure Harun's seat in the House following the death of PDI-P legislative candidate Nazaruddin Kiemas.

He allegedly played a significant role in arranging and controlling the bribery process. Wahyu has been convicted and was sentenced to six years in prison. Harun Masikuu, however, has since 2020 remained at large.

In the obstruction of investigation into the case, Hasto is suspected of helping Harun Masiku evade capture. He is also suspected of gathering witnesses related to the Harun Masiku case and told them not to give the true testimony.

In response to the detention, Hasto's lawyer Maqdir Ismail said that his team respects the ongoing legal process. However, they have submitted a request for a suspension of detention to protect his client's rights. ***