Bali Police Patrol Banjar as Residents Prepare Ogoh-Ogoh Ahead of Nyepi, Ensuring a Safe Celebration

Bali’s Regional Police have intensified patrols under Operation Cipkon Agung 2026 in the run-up to Nyepi Day of Saka 1948 and Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH. This is to ensure that the major religious celebrations proceed safely, peacefully, and with reverence.

Public Relations Head Kombes Ariasandy of the Bali Police said the Preventive Task Force of Ops Cipkon Agung 2026 conducted patrols to Balai Banjar Gerenceng on Jalan Sutomo, Pemecutan Kaja, Denpasar, on Saturday 7 March 2026. The team observed youths and residents of the banjar busy completing ogoh-ogoh ahead of the night of the purging.

“We are here not only to provide security, but also to give the community a sense of calm. The ogoh-ogoh tradition is part of the culture that we must safeguard together,” Ariasandy said in a statement on Saturday.

It is known that one tradition closely associated with Nyepi in Bali is the making and parade of ogoh-ogoh. The process of crafting ogoh-ogoh, rich in symbolic meaning, is generally undertaken collaboratively by residents at the banjar hall as a display of togetherness and also as an expression of the community’s culture.

Ariasandy said the patrol led by Iptu I Made Sukrata was not merely about surveillance. Rather, it also involved a humane approach in the community.

According to Ariasandy, traffic police briefly managed traffic flow and guarded in front of Banjar Gerenceng. This was to ensure community activities proceeded smoothly without disrupting traffic in the vicinity.

During the patrol, officers also took the time to dialogue with traders, parking attendants, and residents around the area. Ariasandy explained the officers issued Kamtibmas advisories so that all events ahead of Nyepi could be conducted in an orderly and safe manner with a persuasive and humane approach.

He said the patrol is a tangible expression of the state’s presence in the community, particularly in supporting the smooth running of cultural traditions that form the identity of the Island of the Gods.

“We urge all residents to maintain order, prioritise safety, and work together to realise Bali that is safe and conducive,” Ariasandy said.

Ariasandy hopes all Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr celebrations can proceed smoothly. He added that this would enable the community to carry out their traditions and worship with a spirit of peace.