Consuls complain about security

DENPASAR, Bali: Governor Ida Bagus Oka says he suspected something fishy in last week's claims that tourists are becoming less safe on the island made by 13 foreign Consuls.

"Why did they raise this issue again? I suspect they have political motives. We must be on our guard," Oka told reporters over the weekend.

Thirteen Consuls from friendly countries visited the provincial legislative councilors on June 17 to air their concern about the law and order situation affecting foreign tourists visiting Bali.

George Frazer, the Australian consul in Denpasar, said that Australian tourists have complained of vendors pestering them as well as of increasing theft and robbery.

Deputy local police chief Brig. Gen. Bimantoro denied reports that crime is on the rise in Bali. "The crime rate has grown by less than 10 percent and should be considered tolerable," he said.

Data at the local police command shows that 29 foreign tourists, nine of them Australians, were robbed in 1994. This figure rose to 30 in 1995. (23/pan)