Balinese authorities are worried about a recent increase in crime involving both tourists and locals, prompting officials to issue updated safety advice and consider new measures to educate visitors on respectful behaviour.
Several incidents have been reported of late. These include a robbery in holiday hotspot Kuta where a tourist’s necklace was stolen. According to The Bali Sun, police said they apprehended the perpetrator and used the opportunity to remind visitors to be cautious with their belongings, especially expensive jewellery.
“Tourists are urged to be careful, do not give the perpetrator a chance,” the Chief of Police of Kuta, AKP Agus Riwayanto Diputra stated.
Travellers have also been advised to avoid walking alone at night in areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu and Uluwatu and urged to use reputable taxis, private drivers or safety features in ride-hailing apps.
In another incident, a female tourist had her bag stolen on Pererenan Beach, but police and local security were able to recover the bag and arrest the perpetrator.
A local man was also recently mugged at knifepoint in Saba Village, prompting increased police patrols in the area, the Sun reported.
But this could just be the tip of the iceberg – and visitors aren’t only the victims.
Travellers not just targets
Beyond the robberies of holidaymakers, Bali is addressing concerns about the disrespectful behaviour of some tourists.
Most recently, a huge brawl involving tourists at the renowned Finns Beach Club in Canggu, footage of which went viral on social media, led to the arrest of an Australian visitor.
Amid ongoing investigations, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) told the ABC it was “aware of the arrest of an Australian in Bali” in relation to the violent brawl.
“We are seeking to provide consular assistance,” they said.
The incident, along with multiple others, has spurred Bali’s tourism leaders to install new billboards educating tourists about expected conduct. Authorities have also vowed to take other measures, but are yet to decide on what those will look like.
Speaking recently to reporters, Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, expressed concern about the rising crime rates. She supports stronger law enforcement and is exploring policy updates to address the issue, The Bali Sun reported.
Meanwhile, the Head of Bali’s Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, acknowledged the serious situation and stressed the need for “quality tourists” who respect Balinese culture. He also cited the need to update existing regulations to better prevent misdemeanours.
According to the Alliance for Marginal Tourism Operators in Bali, crimes involving foreign tourists in the province, especially fights and brawls, seem to be increasing.
“To strengthen security in the short term, authorities should reconsider reinstating the tourist police and honorary police, which were highly effective in the past,” the alliance’s chairman, I Wayan Puspa Negara, told the ABC.
“As an international tourism hub, Bali requires a robust security system that aligns with global standards.
“Tourism should not be seen merely as a source of tax revenue or economic gain; its broader social impacts must also be addressed.”
Aussie advice
DFAT advises Australians visiting the Indonesian island to read the Bali Provincial Government’s ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ advice for foreign tourists.
“Offensive behaviour that fails to respect local culture, religion, places of worship and traditional ceremonies can lead to criminal penalties and/or deportation,” it states on its Smartraveller website.
To protect yourself from danger, it recommends travellers be aware of their surroundings, be alert in crowds and understand the potential crime risks.
While crime rates in Bali may have risen, it’s important to note that the Indonesian province is far from alone when it comes to potentially dicey destinations. For instance, a recent study revealed that the top five global spots for pickpockets and scams were Paris, Barcelona, London, Rome and Las Vegas – all hugely popular destinations among Aussies. Bali didn’t feature in the top 10 worst spots.
