KPK Scrutinizes Former West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil in Bank BJB Advertising Corruption Probe
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is intensifying its investigation into alleged corruption surrounding the procurement of advertising at the West Java and Banten Regional Development Bank (Bank BJB), focusing on the assets of former West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil (RK). A key element of the inquiry centers on a confiscated Royal Enfield motorcycle, raising questions about potential attempts to obscure ownership.
Motorcycle Confiscation Sparks Ownership Concerns
In March 2025, the KPK conducted a search at RK’s residence, seizing a number of vehicles as part of the Bank BJB case. Among the confiscated items was a Royal Enfield Classic 500, registered not in RK’s name, but to an aide or private employee. This detail immediately drew scrutiny, with investigators exploring whether the registration was intended to disguise the true owner.
“The confiscation of each piece of evidence is confirmed to have a connection with the case being investigated,” a senior official stated, emphasizing the basis for seizing the motorcycle.
Initially, the motorbike was not immediately transferred to the State Confiscated Storage House (Rupbasan), with the KPK stating it was temporarily “loaned” back to RK. However, five days after the confiscation, KPK spokesperson Tessa Mahardhika announced the motorcycle had been moved to a “safe place,” the location of which was not disclosed. By April 24, 2025, the Royal Enfield was finally moved to Rupbasan in Cawang, East Jakarta.
Details of the Confiscated Motorcycle
The confiscated Royal Enfield Classic 500 is a modern iteration of the iconic 1951 Bullet, boasting a classic aesthetic with features like a rounded fuel tank and a traditional seat. Technically, the motorcycle is powered by a 499cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine, capable of producing 27.2 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 41.3 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.
Notably, the motorcycle was not listed in RK’s 2023 wealth declaration (LHKPN), further fueling questions about its origin and connection to the former governor. According to Tessa Mahardika, the vehicle was registered under another individual’s name.
KPK Investigation Continues
The KPK maintains that it is not alleging RK deliberately concealed ownership of the motorcycle, but is rather tracing its provenance due to its presence at his residence. “So it is not Mr. RK disguising the ownership of his motorcycle. We are continuing because it is in his house,” explained Asep Guntur Rahayu, Acting Deputy for Execution at the KPK, in July 2025. He reiterated that the ownership documentation is in the name of RK’s aide.
Despite the ongoing investigation, RK has not yet been formally questioned as a witness. Chairman of the KPK, Setyo Budiyanto, confirmed that a summons is forthcoming. “I am sure that the investigator will definitely later determine the schedule for summons because to be able to take responsibility and clarify the search activities that have been done,” Setyo stated on Thursday, October 7, 2025.
Setyo emphasized that the search of RK’s residence does not automatically imply he is a suspect. “The search is only to find and prove that there may be a connection with the previous information,” he clarified, adding that a decision on suspect status will be made based on the evidence gathered. The KPK is currently reviewing documents and interviewing witnesses related to the Bank BJB case, with the examination of RK considered a matter of time.
