The Indonesian disaster management agency’s chief’s brother was among five officials arrested on corruption charges during a severe haze crisis. The arrests were announced by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on October 15, 2026. The suspects were detained in Jakarta following an investigation into alleged misuse of public funds.
The operation targeted officials linked to the 2026 haze season, which affected millions across Indonesia. The haze, caused by forest fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, led to severe air pollution and health alerts. The BNPB stated the arrests were part of a broader anti-corruption drive.
This is the second major corruption case linked to the haze crisis this year. In July 2026, a regional environmental official was suspended over similar allegations. The government has faced criticism for its handling of the haze, with environmental groups accusing it of failing to enforce fire prevention measures. The current investigation is being led by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).
