Finding evidence of a corruption case is not easy, especially if it involves huge state losses and powerful people. The criminals often disguise the loots and cross country borders. They are relentless, making corruption continues to spread widely.

KPK is not on its own in eradicating corruption. Many institutions, both inside or outside the country, offer assistance, including the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It has helped KPK a great deal in investigating corruption in electronic ID card (e-KTP) project.

“The investigation and prosecution process in the case was challenging for KPK. FBI’s assistance throughout the process really helped. The experience also serves as a learning ground for many KPK employees in handling transnational corruption case,” said KPK Chairman Agus Rahardjo, in a meeting with FBI this morning at KPK’s Red and White Building in Jakarta (26/2).

KPK and FBI has worked together since 2008 in relevant programs. KPK has sent its investigators to FBI Academy training in the US to improve their skills.

FBI Law Attaché Joseph Callaghan said they were particularly impressed by KPK’s prosecutors’ answer when they were asked in court hearings by lawyers and judges, as to where they got the hard to find corruption evidence. KPK’s prosecutors often replied, “the evidence was sent down from heaven”, which kept the lawyers and judges from asking further.

“I’m always in awe of the answer,” he said.

The US Ambassador for Indonesia, Joseph R. Donovan, who attended the meeting, said law enforcers in both countries have strong cooperation. KPK and FBI share the same vision of fighting global corruption, he said.

“KPK and FBI have worked closely and tirelessly with important intelligence leads. They collect and share evidence and they have the same wish and passion,” Donovan said.

The FBI gave appreciations to eight investigators, prosecutors and international cooperation team of KPK for such good collaboration.

“We are here to acknowledge and appreciate the incredible performance of respected anticorruption office of Indonesia, namely KPK, and to acknowledge the remarkable commitment and efforts from all investigators, public prosecutors and cooperation specialists that have worked relentlessly and bravely in investigating and persecuting criminals that inflict losses to the government and the people of the country,” Donovan said.