Bali authorities are bolstering security measures and issuing warnings to tourists as the island experiences a rise in petty crime, primarily targeting visitors. The increase in patrols comes amid a significant surge in tourism, with over a million visitors recorded in March alone, a 10.50 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Bag snatching and phone theft have been identified as the most common incidents affecting tourists. According to local reports, perpetrators often use motor vehicles to target tourists walking in known tourist areas, particularly at night. These opportunistic crimes involve thieves approaching victims on motorcycles, snatching valuables such as bags, phones, and jewelry, and quickly speeding away. In some cases, victims have been pulled to the ground during the theft.
One documented incident in Uluwatu, near Bingin Beach, captured on CCTV, shows a man on a motorcycle snatching a woman's bag as she walked alone in Pecatu Village. The thief reportedly dragged the woman before escaping with her belongings.
In response, local police and security teams have been deployed to increase inspections and gather information in affected areas. The South Kuta Police have reportedly dispatched a unit to crime scenes to investigate. Tourists are being advised to use taxis for nighttime travel and to secure valuables in their accommodation.
Content creator Samantha, who resides in Bali and frequently posts about the island, has highlighted the severity of the issue, describing phone and jewelry snatchings as "really, really bad." She relayed accounts from local friends and personal experiences, including advice from a massage staffer in Seminyak against walking home alone at night due to the risks. Samantha also shared that two friends had necklaces stolen in Canggu, and another had her phone snatched while walking.
Her recommendations for tourists include keeping phones in bags and ensuring bags are not positioned roadside when walking. She also advised tucking in visible chains or necklaces and keeping them out of sight. Samantha noted that some of these crimes are allegedly committed by individuals who are not local residents.
Travel experts suggest that travel insurance may offer some recourse for stolen items, but advise checking policy terms carefully, as cheaper plans may not cover such incidents. It is also recommended to keep insurance policy details accessible offline and to report any theft to local police, documenting the details of the report.
Tourists in Bali can contact emergency services by dialing 110. Switchboard operators are available to assist in English.