Indonesia Names Fourth Wiretapping Suspect Amid Political Scandal

Indonesian law enforcement authorities have named a fourth suspect in connection with the alleged interception of communications belonging to President Prabowo Subianto. During a briefing late on Thursday, officials identified a senior law enforcement official using the initials SU as the latest individual linked to the ongoing investigation. Local media subsequently identified the official as Slamet Uliandi.

Investigators stated that the suspect served as the head of the investigation agency’s information and technology unit from 2021 to 2026, and previously worked as monitoring chief at the Criminal Investigation Agency between 2010 and 2019. Authorities allege that he granted approval for the surveillance activities. According to cybercrime unit director Suhermanto, authorization was sought from SU before the interception took place and prior to the deletion of related records. The suspect has not yet been taken into custody due to underlying health issues.

The development follows the arrest of three senior police officers earlier in the week. Among those detained is the former national police chief and current presidential chief of staff, Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who is widely regarded as a loyalist of former leader Joko Widodo. The National Police spokesperson announced that a special team has been formed to handle the case, with investigators having questioned 13 police officers along with five IT and criminal experts regarding the motives behind the interception attempts.

A senior law enforcement official has been named as the fourth suspect in the presidential wiretapping investigation.

The widening inquiry has intensified political tensions in Jakarta, where thousands of troops, military buses, and temporary tents have been deployed. Despite the heavy security presence, the capital remained calm on Thursday and Friday. The situation has added further pressure on President Prabowo's administration amid mounting public dissatisfaction regarding expensive populist measures and declining investor sentiment in the national economy.

## Why it matters

This high-level investigation highlights a growing division between President Prabowo Subianto and his predecessor Joko Widodo, whose son serves as vice president. As lawmakers contemplate legislative probes, the unfolding events threaten to impact political stability and economic confidence in the country.