Noel Ebenezer: Ex-Official Questions KPK Evidence & Sings “OTT Bocil” in Court

Former Deputy Minister Claims KPK Lacks Evidence in Graft Case, Sings “OTT Bocil” in Protest

Jakarta – Immanuel Ebenezer, a former Deputy Minister of Manpower, also known as Noel, has repeatedly asserted his innocence in a corruption case involving alleged extortion related to occupational safety certification (K3) at the Ministry of Manpower. During court proceedings, Noel has leveled criticisms at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), questioning the evidence supporting the charges against him.

Noel is currently one of eleven defendants on trial at the Jakarta Anti-Corruption Court. The case centers around allegations that Noel and others solicited bribes from companies seeking K3 certifications, a requirement for operating in certain industries.

Prior to a hearing on Monday, February 9, 2026, featuring three witnesses from the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Noel maintained that the KPK has no concrete evidence linking him to the alleged crimes. “Where is the (arrest) sting operation? Where is the evidence, even until this moment? Is there any evidence?” he asked, according to reports.

He further denied being apprehended by KPK investigators, claiming he was summoned for clarification and subsequently designated a suspect. “I wasn’t arrested! I was called in for clarification, for questioning. They said, ‘Be cooperative, sir, be cooperative.’ The next day, I was a suspect (TSK),” Noel stated.

Debate Over the Definition of “Sting Operation”

Noel’s defense has focused on challenging the KPK’s use of the term “Operasi Tangkap Tangan” (OTT), or sting operation. He drew a distinction between the definition of a sting operation under the old and new Indonesian Criminal Procedure Codes (KUHAP).

According to Noel, the older KUHAP defined a sting operation as the apprehension of an individual *in the act* of committing a crime. “That means they were committing a criminal act and then were arrested. That’s an OTT,” he explained.

However, the revised KUHAP broadens the definition to include arrests made immediately after a crime is committed, or shortly after an individual is publicly identified as a perpetrator. “For example, if they are caught red-handed, or surrounded by people, that’s an OTT. This is what the law says, not me. That’s why I’m asking, is the KPK an entity above the state, or are they building a state within a state?” Noel questioned.

A Protest Song: “OTT Bocil”

Demonstrating his frustration, Noel broke into song as the court session was adjourned for a break. Standing in front of the Prof. Dr. Kusumah Atmadja courtroom, he announced to the assembled media, “I actually want to sing. The title is ‘OTT Bocil’,” a phrase that translates roughly to “Kid’s Sting Operation,” a potentially sarcastic reference to the perceived lack of seriousness in the KPK’s case against him.

The case has also drawn attention to allegations involving former Minister of Manpower, Ida Fauziah, who has been accused of receiving bribes in connection with the K3 certification scheme. The KPK has indicated it is exploring these claims and considering expanding the scope of the investigation.

Noel’s repeated claims of innocence and his pointed criticisms of the KPK’s methods suggest a robust defense strategy. The trial is expected to continue with further witness testimony and the presentation of evidence by the prosecution. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the KPK’s credibility and its ongoing efforts to combat corruption within the Indonesian government.

The court proceedings are being closely watched by observers who are interested in the nuances of Indonesia’s anti-corruption laws and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in prosecuting high-profile cases. Noel’s insistence on the lack of evidence and his unconventional courtroom behavior have added a layer of drama to the proceedings, ensuring continued public and media attention.