227 Foreign Nationals Penalised in Three Months in Bali, Immigration Forms Dharma Dewata Task Force
The surge in immigration violations involving foreign nationals (WNA) in Bali has prompted a serious response from the Directorate General of Immigration. In the last three months alone, hundreds of foreign nationals have been penalised, ranging from deportation to detention.
As a firm step, Immigration has officially deployed the Immigration Patrol Task Force named Dharma Dewata to tighten supervision on the Island of the Gods.
The Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, emphasised that the formation of this task force is not without reason. He stated that the ongoing trend of increasing violations signals the need for systematic strengthening of supervision.
“This is not just an ordinary patrol. We are here to ensure that every activity of foreign nationals in Bali remains within the legal framework,” he asserted during the event at Niti Mandala Renon field on Wednesday morning (15/4/2026).
Immigration data records that from 1 January to 12 April 2026, a total of 227 foreign nationals have been penalised. The breakdown includes 165 foreign nationals deported, while the remaining 62 are undergoing detention due to various immigration violations.
This situation highlights that supervision of foreigners remains a serious challenge, particularly in areas with high international mobility such as Bali.
Marantoko explained that the Dharma Dewata Task Force will focus on areas with high concentrations of foreign nationals, which have previously been prone to violations. With an active patrol pattern and a quick response system, the task force is expected to close loopholes that have been exploited by rogue foreign nationals.
In addition to relying on enforcement, Immigration is also implementing prevention strategies through the Village Immigration Officer (PIMPASA) programme. Through this scheme, communities and village apparatus are directly involved in monitoring the presence of foreigners in their surroundings.