As Bali becomes busier, tourists are increasingly vulnerable to opportunistic criminals who prey on holidaymakers who let their guard down while enjoying a vacation or a big night out.
While Bali remains the most statistically safe destination for international tourists, police are working to increase safety for all.
The South Kuta Police Chief Commissioner, I Gusti Ngurah Yudistira, has confirmed that Blue Light Patrols are continuing in Bali’s biggest tourism resorts.
Blue Light Patrols were designed to create a visible police presence in Bali’s busiest nightlife districts, helping deter criminals and making tourists and the wider community feel safe.
Yudistira explained where this weekend’s patrols were focused. He said, “We at the South Kuta Police have increased patrols, especially at night and on weekends. At that time, people’s mobility is usually high. We patrol a number of vulnerable points.”
The South Kuta area includes resorts such as Nusa Dua, Benoa, and Jimbaran, though many patrols have been conducted in resort areas such as Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu.
Yudistira confirmed that the patrols are mostly focused on activities late at night. This weekend, the South Kuta Police Station patrol started at 11.30 pm and continued with the deployment of personnel to several locations in the district known to be often gathering places for young people.
These patrol zones have also been noted to be prone to criminal activity, such as street crimes, drug trafficking, and illegal racing that often disturb residents.
Yudistira reiterated, “We are committed to maintaining security in our area. This Saturday night patrol is one of our real steps in preventing criminal acts and maintaining public order. We hope for participation from the community to jointly maintain public order and security.”
He confirmed that the patrols will continue throughout the governorship election campaign and into the festive season at the end of the year.
The need for such patrols was sadly evidenced in the last week when an Indian couple on vacation in the Kuta area were victims of a snatch theft while walking along Jalan Dewi Sri in Legian.
The couple, known by their initials SA and RDR, and their young child were accosted by a group of three men who snatched a 40-gram gold neckline from RDR’s neck before racing away on a motorcycle. The necklace, reported to be worth IDR 49,000,000, has yet to be recovered, and an investigation remains underway.
The Denpasar Police Public Relations Chief, AKP I Ketut Sukadi, confirmed the case to the media, noting that eyewitnesses have been supporting the couple’s case.
Over the coming months, tourists can expect to see more security across Bali’s busiest resorts and attractions, including Sanur Port.
As campaigning is underway for the upcoming local election for the governorship, mayors, and regents on the 27th of November, 2024, ports and other transport hubs will be closely monitored, in addition to security efforts like the Blue Light Patrols.
Security chiefs who have been overseeing increased security efforts at Sanur Port told reporters last week that the security operation includes the prevention of passengers traveling with illegal items and increased security checks on passengers and baggage based on the potential circulation of sharp weapons, explosives, narcotics, and illegal liquor.
AKP Sukadi also spoke with the media to explain, “The [Sanur] pier is a very vital entrance, especially during the regional election. We make sure that strict supervision is carried out to prevent the circulation of prohibited goods that can disturb security and order.”
He concluded, “This security is not only to enforce the law but also to give a sense of security to the people who make the crossing.”
Remove All Ads & Unlock All Articles… Sign up for The Bali Sun Premium
Plan Your Bali Holiday:
Book The Best English Speaking Drivers For Airport Transfers & Tours
Choose From Thousands of Bali Hotels, Resorts, and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
Book Cheap Flights To Bali
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance That Covers Medical Expenses In Bali
For the latest Bali News & Debate Join our Facebook Community
SUBSCRIBE TO NEW POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Bali Sun’s latest breaking news, straight to your inbox.