Bali Immigration apprehends 66 foreigners in crackdown on violations
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bali immigration authorities apprehended 66 foreign nationals from 27 countries during a week-long operation targeting immigration violations and public disturbances.
- Suspected offenses include misusing stay permits, overstaying visas, and causing public disorder, with digital surveillance aiding in detection.
- The Bali Immigration office is investigating the cases and may impose administrative actions, including deportation, while urging the public to report violations.
Denpasar, Indonesia โ Bali immigration officials have detained 66 foreign nationals from 27 countries following a week-long operation aimed at curbing immigration offenses and public disturbances. The detentions highlight ongoing efforts to regulate the presence of foreigners on the popular tourist island.
The "Dharma Dewata" patrols, conducted across various regions of Bali, identified individuals suspected of violating immigration laws. Among those inspected, 24 are believed to have misused their stay permits, 20 overstayed their visas, and 22 were apprehended for disturbing public order. Felucia Sengky Ratna, Head of the Bali Regional Office of the Immigration DG, stated that digital surveillance proved effective in quickly and accurately identifying potential violations.
Digital-based surveillance has proven effective in detecting potential violations more quickly and accurately.
Immigration offices covering Ngurah Rai, Denpasar, Singaraja, Tabanan, and Klungkung participated in the operation. Officers utilized an integrated digital data system to verify documents and detect irregularities. They also engaged with business owners and accommodation managers to reinforce the mandatory reporting of foreigners' presence through the APOA application.
Those apprehended are currently undergoing investigation to determine appropriate actions, which could include administrative sanctions such as deportation. Sengky emphasized the importance of professional conduct and humane treatment during surveillance operations, ensuring adherence to legal frameworks. The public is encouraged to report any suspected violations through official immigration channels.
For every operation, I emphasize that all personnel must work professionally, avoid abuse of authority, and conduct surveillance in a humane yet firm and measured manner, strictly adhering to legal frameworks.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.