On September 23, 2026, a surprise inspection by Indonesia’s Ombudsman arrived at Cibinong Prison in Bogor, West Java, south of Jakarta. What it found was set apart from the common cells: residences with home comforts, high-end vehicles, and a gym. There was also a golf simulator under construction and an exit to the outside that had no lock. The scene seemed to bring together two realities in the same prison: confinement and a life of comfort.
The visit prompted an official investigation. According to reports cited by local media, some inmates may have used certain units; among them was reportedly someone convicted of corruption. The use of each residence and the responsibilities of prison authorities came under investigation.
The director of Cibinong and four other senior officials were suspended as the investigation proceeded. The question was how those facilities had come to operate inside the prison.
On September 30, one week after the inspection, the Directorate General of Corrections oversaw the demolition of the buildings. In seven days, the case went from a surprise visit to suspensions and demolition. The structures disappeared; the investigation remained open.
