Bali’s Police Chief Urges Consulates to Promote Lawful Tourist Behavior Amid Rising Violations

Bali’s Police Chief Urges International Collaboration to Improve Tourist Conduct

Bali’s esteemed Police Chief Inspector General, Daniel Adityajaya, has issued a stern warning directed at the consulates operating within the province. During a recent meeting with consulate generals from 40 nations, he emphasized the necessity for enhanced communication regarding provincial laws and local cultural customs to foster better tourist behavior.

Urgent Call for Cooperation

General Adityajaya’s plea comes on the heels of the confirmation that six foreigners will soon be deported for breaching visa regulations. This incident highlights the importance of foreign tourists adhering to local laws, a principle that General Adityajaya reiterated with clarity, stating, “Of course, in accordance with the law in Indonesia. If you commit a violation of the law later, it will be processed by law as usual.”

While foreign embassies typically step in when their nationals encounter legal issues, the Police Chief underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration with consulate officials to maintain public order and harmony. “For that, we need to keep communicating with foreign countries. There are agreements that allow for the handling of a case,” he noted.

Rising Incidents of Legal Issues Among Foreigners

Recent statistics reveal a concerning trend, with an escalating number of foreigners facing legal challenges in Bali. According to data released by Bali-based news outlet detikBali, 83 foreigners were criminally prosecuted in 2023, a figure that rose to 108 in 2024. Additionally, traffic violations among foreigners have also surged, with incidents increasing from 71 cases in 2023 to 91 in 2024.

General Adityajaya elaborated on this trend, stating, ‘The current tendency is to increase [public security and order efforts for] both traffic violations and criminal acts that not only involve foreigners as victims but also foreigners as perpetrators.” This statement reflects a broader initiative to improve public safety and adherence to the law.

Zero-Tolerance Policy Enforced Post-Pandemic

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bali has adopted a stricter zero-tolerance stance towards tourists violating local laws, particularly in regard to immigration. Recent operations have resulted in significant arrests; for instance, during a four-day sting operation from November 12 to 15, 2024, authorities apprehended fourteen foreigners for immigration violations. Furthermore, on February 8, 2025, six additional foreigners were arrested and confirmed for deportation by the Denpasar Immigration Office for serious visa breaches.

Confirmed Deportations and Local Sentiments

The six foreigners to be deported hail from the UK, Canada, Ghana, and India, with Ridha Sah Putra, the head of the Denpasar Immigration Office, providing confirmation of their forthcoming removal from the island.

In light of these developments, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, the head of the Bali Tourism Office, addressed the media, acknowledging the rising crime statistics but asserting that Bali remains a secure and hospitable destination for international visitors. He attributed these encounters with the law largely to a lack of awareness among tourists and reiterated the importance of the List of Do’s and Don’ts published in 2023. This list serves as crucial guidance for visitors to navigate Bali’s cultural landscape respectfully.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Bali Tourism

The Guidelines include twelve obligations and eight prohibitions that every tourist is expected to honor while visiting Bali. Among the ‘Do’s’ are important reminders such as respecting Balinese culture, customs, and traditions, and dressing modestly, especially when visiting sacred sites.

Conversely, the most critical prohibitions highlight the necessity for tourists not to work or conduct business without official permits, and to refrain from engaging in illegal activities concerning the trade of protected wildlife, cultural artifacts, or other illicit goods.

Conclusion

With Bali’s commitment to maintaining its serene charm and harmony, the ongoing collaboration between local law enforcement and international consulates is deemed essential. As the island welcomes a diverse array of tourists, shared understanding and respect for cultural norms will be vital in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. As the province prepares for the return of Governor Koster for a second term, further emphasis on these guidelines is anticipated to reinforce Bali’s dedication to cultural integrity and public order.