Tourists Advised to Stay Vigilant at Bali Airport Amid Efforts to Combat Opportunistic Crime
Bali, Indonesia — October 3, 2025
As international travel continues to surge through Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, officials are urging tourists to remain alert and take precautionary measures to protect their belongings from opportunistic criminals operating in and around the airport premises.
Increased Passenger Traffic Heightens Security Concerns
Recent data reveals a significant increase in international arrivals at Bali Airport, with 4.8 million international passengers recorded from January to August 2025—a 12.4% rise compared to the same period last year. July saw the peak number of arrivals, with nearly 719,000 international travelers, averaging approximately 23,000 individuals per day passing through the airport.
Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, confirmed that Australian tourists remain the largest group, followed by visitors from India and China, with Chinese arrivals showing the highest percentage growth at 20.6%. Other notable visitor numbers include tourists from South Korea and the United Kingdom. Shahab expressed optimism about maintaining this positive trend and outlined ongoing initiatives to enhance passenger services, including the recently implemented All Indonesia system designed to streamline arrival procedures.
Police Warn of Opportunistic Theft Risks
In response to the busy travel season and increased passenger flow, local law enforcement is stepping up efforts to ensure traveler safety. The Airport Area Police have issued warnings outlining common hotspots for petty crimes, including the pick-up and drop-off zones, parking areas, and meeting points within the airport complex.
Ipda I Gede Suka Artana, Head of Public Relations for Ngurah Rai Airport Area Police, emphasized, “The crime exists because there is an opportunity. When we give an opportunity, then the perpetrator will plan his action.” He highlighted that thefts often occur when travelers momentarily leave valuables unattended, with thieves targeting items such as bags, phones, headphones, and wallets.
Commitment to Passenger Safety and Service
Artana reassured the public that airport police are dedicated not only to security but also to providing a humanistic service that ensures a comfortable and safe environment. “We want to make sure that every passenger feels protected from the moment they arrive until they leave the airport,” he said, adding that security teams operate around the clock to monitor and deter suspicious activity.
The police presence aims to enhance the sense of security for passengers, while also facilitating ease of information and assistance throughout their transit.
Practical Tips for Travelers
To minimize the risk of theft at Bali Airport, tourists are advised to:
- Keep personal belongings within sight and securely fastened.
- Avoid leaving bags or valuables unattended, even for short periods.
- Remain vigilant in crowded and busy areas such as arrival halls, parking lots, and designated meeting points.
- Report any suspicious behavior immediately to airport security personnel.
Looking Ahead
As Bali continues to welcome a growing number of international tourists, airport authorities and law enforcement remain committed to improving safety measures and providing an enhanced traveler experience. The ongoing collaboration between immigration, customs, and security agencies illustrates a unified effort to preserve Bali’s reputation as a popular and safe destination.
Passengers traveling through Ngurah Rai Airport can expect continued vigilance from authorities aimed at safeguarding visitors and maintaining smooth airport operations throughout the year.
For travelers planning their visit to Bali, awareness and caution remain key components to ensuring a smooth and secure airport experience. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed and follow security advice while enjoying the island’s renowned hospitality.
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