Bali Immigration Investigates Foreigners Allegedly Linked to Israeli Military After Viral Gym Ejection
Denpasar Immigration is investigating after a viral video showed a Ubud-area gym owner ejecting three foreigners allegedly linked to the Israeli military (IDF). Two of the men have been identified as Israeli-born holders of Bulgarian and Romanian passports who entered Bali on August 3 using visa-on-arrival/visitor visas.
Denpasar's Class I Immigration Office visited A Fitness gym in Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali on the evening of August 19 to review immigration data and gather statements after a viral video showed the gym owner ejecting three foreign men allegedly linked to the Israeli military (IDF).
The incident occurred around 7pm on August 16. In an Instagram video, the gym owner explained he asked the men to leave after one was rude to staff, telling them he would not serve members of the IDF. The video went viral, and the gym reportedly received a one-star review accusing the owner of discrimination; the owner denied targeting any religion, saying his objection was to IDF affiliation and rude behavior toward staff.
Immigration chief R. Haryo Sakti said two of the three men have been identified: a 23-year-old born in Israel (initials IB) holding a Bulgarian passport, and a 22-year-old born in Israel (initials YBH) holding a Romanian passport. Both entered Bali via Ngurah Rai International Airport on August 3 on Etihad flight EY478, using visa-on-arrival or visitor visas.
Both men have been placed on Immigration's monitoring list (SOI) pending further investigation. Officials said the gym owner and the identified individuals will be summoned for questioning to clarify the chronology and any immigration violations. Immigration also urged the public to report suspected foreigner visa violations via its official WhatsApp complaint line (+62 812-4618-3838).
Things to Consider
Disputes with staff at gyms, restaurants, or other venues in Bali can be filmed and go viral, prompting immigration and police investigations. Tourists and residents should treat venue staff respectfully and keep copies of entry documents (visa type, arrival date, flight details), as authorities may request clarification, especially in cases involving passports issued by a country different from one's place of birth. If summoned for questioning by Immigration, cooperate and bring your passport and visa documentation.
Source: cnnindonesia.com