Caught on Camera: Japanese Tourists Film Themselves Shoplifting in Bali, Spark Outrage Online

Four Japanese Tourists Caught Shoplifting in Bali, Stirring Concern Over Rising Crime

Bali, Indonesia — December 8, 2025

A CCTV video capturing four Japanese tourists shoplifting from a clothing shop in Bali has gone viral, drawing widespread attention and raising concerns about increasing criminal activities involving foreign visitors in the Indonesian resort island.

The footage, which surfaced on social media platform X on December 6, shows the group casually browsing in the store before covertly slipping shirts into their backpacks. The shop owner, suspecting foul play after noticing 11 clothing items missing during a routine inventory check, reviewed security cameras and confirmed the theft. A fourth individual later joined the group and was seen pocketing an item, with Japanese conversation audible in the background.

This rare incident involving Japanese tourists—typically regarded as respectful visitors—has triggered a strong reaction among users in Japan. Many expressed shame over the misconduct, referring to it as a “permanent disgrace” to their country. Local Balinese media also highlighted the unusual nature of the episode, pointing out that such behavior among Japanese tourists is uncommon.

The case coincides with growing concerns over an uptick in crimes linked to foreigners on the island. According to a report published by The Guardian in July 2025, offenses involving foreign nationals increased by 16% within a year, rising from 194 recorded cases in 2023 to 226 in 2024. Balinese officials attribute this surge partly to lower-quality tourism and a proliferation of illegal homestays that lack proper screening. These factors have allowed some undesirable visitors to stay longer, contributing to various problems including petty theft, fraud, and narcotics offenses.

The shoplifting incident adds to the call for better regulatory oversight of tourism in Bali to protect both local businesses and the island’s reputation as a safe, welcoming destination. Authorities have yet to announce any action taken against the four tourists.

As Bali continues to attract millions of travelers worldwide, balancing openness with security remains a critical challenge for the island’s tourism sector.