Luxury cells in an Indonesian prison. Air conditioning, TVs and a golf simulator

During an unannounced inspection at Cibinong Prison in Bogor, near Indonesia's capital, investigators found an apartment complex that looked more like upscale apartments than typical prison cells.

The amenities that selected prisoners enjoyed included air-conditioned rooms, large TVs, comfortable sofas, and even expensive cars parked on the premises. During the inspection, lounge and dining areas, as well as a gym and a golf simulator were also discovered.

Who used the apartments?

As representatives of the Indonesian Ombudsman emphasize, there are serious indications that access to luxurious conditions was possible thanks to bribes and connections. We found strong evidence that some prisoners had access to special facilities not available to regular inmates, Syafrida Rachmawati Rasahan from the ombudsman's office told The Guardian. The discovery confirms long-standing allegations against the Indonesian penitentiary system that wealthy or influential prisoners receive special treatment.

According to information provided by investigators, the complex contained over ten separate housing units, completely separated from standard cells. It was there that several inmates were found during the inspection on September 23. The identity of the prisoners using these facilities has not been officially revealed, but the media reports two criminals convicted of corruption - both of them are serving 10-year sentences.

Suspended officers and investigation

Following the scandal, five high-ranking prison officials, including the head of Cibinong Prison, have been suspended. According to Rudi Setiawan, inspector general of the Ministry of Immigration and Prisons, dozens of prisoners and employees of the facility have already been questioned.

As it turned out, initially the buildings in which the apartments were arranged were intended to serve as official housing for the prison staff. Investigators are investigating whether they were illegally converted into private quarters for selected prisoners.

This is not the first time Indonesian prisons have been criticized for corruption, overcrowding and unequal treatment of inmates. Over the years, there have been reports that wealthy prisoners can "buy" better terms for themselves while the rest of the prison population struggles with overcrowding and terrible living conditions.