Jakarta. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Saturday named the regent of Cilacap a suspect after uncovering an alleged scheme in which local officials were pressured to contribute cash for Eid holiday bonuses.

KPK Investigators accused Syamsul Auliya Rachman of forcing subordinates within the Cilacap regency administration to pool money ahead of the Eid al-Fitr celebration.

The agency said the scheme collected about Rp 610 million (around $36,000), which investigators believe was intended to be distributed as holiday bonuses among members of the local leadership forum, including the regent, military and police commanders, the local prosecutor’s chief, and judges.

“We found requests for contributions allegedly intended as Eid holiday bonuses for several parties within the regional leadership forum,” said Asep Guntur Rahayu during a press conference in Jakarta.

The KPK also named Sadmoko Danardono as a suspect in the same case.

According to preliminary findings, each unit within the Cilacap regency administration was asked to contribute between Rp 50 million and Rp 100 million to the regent.

During a search of Syamsul’s residence, investigators discovered several bags filled with cash along with lists naming the intended recipients. The KPK did not disclose the identities listed.

Asep said the order to collect the funds included a deadline of March 13 and targeted 23 work units within the Cilacap regency government.

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