Bali Police Step Up Patrols After Mugging in Tourist Areas; Foreign Theft and Overstay Cases Surface
Following a mugging targeting a Malaysian tourist near Kerobokan/Seminyak and Canggu on September 13, North Kuta Police have intensified night patrols in popular tourist areas. Separately, a viral video showed foreign nationals allegedly stealing cash from a shopkeeper in Tabanan, and a French national was deported from Bali after overstaying his visa by 100 days.
North Kuta Police have stepped up night patrols in popular tourist areas following a mugging that targeted a Malaysian tourist on Jalan Pangkung Sari in Kerobokan Village, near Seminyak and Canggu, on Sunday, September 13. The Samapta Unit conducted patrols along Jalan Pantai Berawa in Canggu early that morning, monitoring traffic and engaging with the public. North Kuta Police Chief Commissioner I Ketut Sukadana said the patrols aim to deter snatching and other crimes and provide a sense of security to residents and tourists. He confirmed patrols will continue to be intensified in areas of concern and urged the public to report crimes promptly by calling police at 110.
Separately, a theft incident involving foreign nationals surfaced in Tabanan Regency over the same weekend. On Friday, September 18, CCTV footage went viral showing two foreign nationals allegedly distracting a 52-year-old shopkeeper, identified as I Made S, while stealing IDR 800,000 in cash from his grocery store in Bajera Village. According to the victim, the suspects bought sugar and requested change, using the language barrier to distract him while cash was taken from his bag. Selemadeg Police Chief Commissioner I Made Subadi confirmed the incident is under investigation, with police also looking into possible similar incidents elsewhere.
Additionally, Bali Immigration continues enforcement against visa violations. On September 18, a French national identified as YGB, 22, surrendered to the Denpasar Class I Immigration Office after overstaying his residence permit by 100 days. He was deported via Ngurah Rai International Airport under Article 78(3) of Indonesia's 2011 Immigration Law. Bali Regional Immigration Office Head Ramdhani reiterated the office's commitment to ongoing oversight and law enforcement against violations by foreign nationals.
Things to Consider
When walking at night in Seminyak, Canggu, or Kerobokan, keep valuables split between different bags, avoid quiet side streets, and consider using taxis or ride-hailing motorbikes instead of walking alone. When paying at shops, keep your bag closed and be alert to anyone attempting to distract you during transactions. Report any crime immediately to police at 110. Also, regularly check your visa or residence permit expiry date; if it has lapsed, voluntarily surrendering to the nearest immigration office may result in a lighter administrative penalty than being caught by authorities.
Source: The Bali Sun