Armed 'Silver Man' Beggar Causes Alarm in Kuta
The increasing presence of ‘silver men’—street beggars covered in silver paint—requesting money at various traffic lights in Denpasar and Badung has become a growing public concern. Most recently, the issue has escalated from simple begging to threats involving sharp weapons.
A video showing a ‘silver man’ brandishing a knife at motorists went viral on social media. The incident took place at the intersection of Jalan Imam Bonut and Jalan Sunset Road in Kuta, Badung, Bali.
Iptu I Gede Adi Saputra Jaya, Head of Public Relations for the Denpasar Police, stated that the incident was recorded by local residents at approximately 3:00 PM on Saturday (16/5). Following an investigation, the Kuta Police Sub-district team successfully apprehended the suspect on Sunday (17/5).
According to Adi, the suspect, identified as Andra Winata, is a 26-year-old labourer originally from Batujajar, Bandung, West Java. Police seized several pieces of evidence, including necklaces, boxer shorts, a red bucket used for collecting money, and mineral water bottles containing silver paint. During interrogation, the suspect admitted to using the knife to threaten motorists while working as a ‘silver man’.
The suspect claimed he was acting under the orders of an individual named Ujang, though he stated he does not currently know Ujang’s whereabouts. He further claimed that the knife used in the incident has since been returned to Ujang.
Badung’s Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) admitted that enforcing regulations against these groups is challenging. Officers find it difficult to identify the profiles of violators because their entire bodies are covered in paint, making it hard to distinguish between repeat offenders and newcomers.
Badung Satpol PP Chief, I Gusti Agung Ketut Suryanegara, noted that while they have long monitored these groups, they continue to reappear due to the responses of motorists. He emphasised that while begging is a matter for social guidance, the use of weapons constitutes a criminal offence. The suspect has been handed over to the police for further legal proceedings, as his actions posed a direct threat to public safety and the reputation of the local tourism industry.