Security Patrols In Bali Resorts Intensified To Tackle Criminals Targeting Tourists 

Share The Article

Police in Bali have confirmed that increased security patrols in top tourism resorts will continue, even as heightened security presences for the Lebaran holidays have been stepped down.

The news comes as more reports of crime targeted at tourists have hit headlines in the last two months. 

Speaking to reporters the South Kuta Police Chief AKP I Komang Agus Dharmayana, explained that South Kuta Police will continue to intensity patrols both day and night in top tourist resort areas, to help prevent any criminal activity from happening in those areas.

He confirmed that the main target of the patrols is to prevent crimes such as theft, burglary, motorcycle theft, possession of sharp weapons and illegal firearms, distribution of alcoholic beverages, and other potential disturbances to public order and security.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wonderful Indonesia (@wonderfulindonesia)

Dharmayana explained “The patrol team focuses on patrols in parking areas for two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles. In addition, residential areas and vital objects.” 

He added, “This patrol is a routine activity carried out by personnel not only at night but also during the day to provide a sense of security to the community and tourists who visit tourist attractions in the South Kuta area.” 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wonderful Indonesia (@wonderfulindonesia)

Dharmayana noted that patrolling officers have been told to adhere to a ‘humanist approach’ and will be taking time simply to talk with the public as a means of maintaining public security and increased vigilance in busy areas within South Kuta. 

Tourists in Bali, whether visiting resorts in South Kuta or anywhere on the island, are being urged to be mindful of their belongings and consider their personal security at all times.

In areas such as Kuta, tourists have been attacked by criminals who have identified them as targets as a result of seeing them in possession of high-value items such as gold jewelry, wallets, cameras, and smartphones. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wonderful Indonesia (@wonderfulindonesia)

Last week Bali Police confirmed the arrest of a 15-year-old from Karangasem Regency who was reported to have driven up to a tourist family as they walked along Jalan Pudak Sari, before cornering them and violently ripping a 42-gram gold necklace from around the victim’s neck. 

A police source confirmed the reporters “The suspect admitted to his actions in forcibly snatching the victim’s necklace. The plan was to sell the necklace and use the proceeds for daily needs. The perpetrator also admitted to having previously carried out four snatchings in the Kuta area.”

It is not only in Kuta where police are working to intensify their commitment to keeping the public safe, but in Gianyar Regency too.

Gianyar Regency is best known for tourism hotspots like Ubud and tourists in the area will see more police officers out on patrol day and night. The efforts are being focused in Kota Gianyar specifically, and around the Gianyar Traditional Market, though police units will be present across the regency.

The Gianyar Police Chief Commissioner I Nyoman Sukadana said that patrols are a preventive measure in order to create a safe and orderly environment. He noted that ‘precision patrols’ are carried out routinely and continuously.  Sukadana shared “We want the community to feel safe, comfortable, and protected in carrying out their daily activities.”

Tourists in Bali are urged to report any suspicious or criminal activity to police and security teams as quickly as possible.

Tourists should not worry that a language barrier would be an obstacle to their filing a report, bilingual police staff can always be made available. Consular support is also available to all foreigners in Bali 24/7. 

In the event of a crime, tourists should call the Indonesian Main Emergency Number 112, or Police on 110. Tourist Police Kuta can be contacted on +62 361 784 5988.

Tourists can also contact their accommodation provider for support in the event of an emergency, or if in need of contacting the authorities.