Consuls complain about security

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)