Indonesian authorities have arrested three individuals suspected of tapping President Prabowo Subianto's phone, along with other prominent figures. The suspects, identified by their initials LSP, ASN, and EH, are under investigation for allegedly carrying out the wiretaps without a legal basis or investigative process. The arrests were made after a police officer filed a report on Friday, prompting an examination of 10 witnesses and seizure of evidence.
According to top detective Asep Safrudin, the suspects allegedly tapped the telephone number of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, as well as those of government officials, politicians, journalists, NGO representatives, and businesspeople. The wiretaps were carried out beginning in 2025, without any connection to law enforcement efforts. Asep also stated that the suspects deleted traces of their actions in October 2026.
Justice Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra identified LSP as an active police general, believed to be Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who was appointed as President Prabowo's chief of staff a month ago. The two other suspects were senior police officials, while a fourth person is also under investigation. Yusril stated that there was no suspicion of treason, but the investigative process is still at an early stage.
President Prabowo has faced mounting pressure for his government's handling of the economy and destructive wildfires in the Southeast Asian archipelago. His popularity has reached record lows, and his government has come under fire from neighboring countries due to the wildfires' impact on air quality. The arrests were made amid Prabowo's efforts to address these challenges.
The suspects face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Asep said that the suspects allegedly ordered wiretaps without an official written request from investigators. The evidence seized includes 11 mobile phones, an iPad, and four flash drives. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the purpose and scope of the wiretaps.
President Prabowo, a former general, reshuffled his cabinet for a seventh time last month, appointing Listyo Sigit Prabowo as his chief of staff. Listyo is reported to be an ally of Prabowo's predecessor and political rival Joko Widodo. The appointment was made as Prabowo seeks to address the challenges facing his government.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges facing President Prabowo's government, including issues of governance, economy, and security. The investigation into the alleged wiretaps will continue, with authorities working to uncover the facts and bring those responsible to justice.
Key points
- Three people, including a general and senior police officers, have been arrested in Indonesia for allegedly tapping President Prabowo Subianto's phone without a legal basis.
- The suspects face up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
- The arrests were made amid President Prabowo's efforts to address mounting pressure on his government.
