Panji Satrio, Jakarta – An election official in the town of Padang Sidempuan, North Sumatra, has been arrested for allegedly attempting to extort money from a legislative candidate, according to the police statement on Sunday.

The suspect, identified by the initials PH, was detained by a North Sumatra Police team at a local cafe early on Saturday. A video circulating on social media platforms captures the moment PH was surrounded by officers in plain clothes, one of them holding seized banknotes.

Police said they confiscated Rp 25 million ($1,580) in cash during the raid.

PH serves as a local commissioner in the General Election Commission (KPU) office in Padang Sidempuan, responsible for public participation and human resources.

Tagor Domura Lubis, chairman of the KPU's Padang Sidempuan office, confirmed the arrest on Sunday but said he had no information about the specific charges.

"As for the reason behind the arrest, let's wait for an update from the provincial police, and we should refrain from making speculations," Tagor said. He added that the office would fully cooperate with law enforcement in the case.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/north-sumatra-election-official-arrested-on-allegations-of-extortio