Denpasar Police Investigate Traffic Unit Officer Over Alleged SIM Extortion

Denpasar Police are investigating a member of the Traffic Unit, identified by the initials DL, who is suspected of involvement in issuing a driving licence (SIM) outside official procedures. The internal investigation is being conducted by the Professionalism and Security Division (Propam) after a video alleging illegal levies went viral on social media.

Denpasar Traffic Unit Chief, Commissioner Muhammad Bhayangkara Putra Sejati, stressed that his department will not tolerate any form of violation by its members. If found guilty, the officer in question will face strict sanctions in accordance with applicable regulations.

Based on initial findings, the SIM applicant seen in the video arrived at the Denpasar Police SIM service centre with a colleague. They are suspected of having coordinated with the officer to facilitate the issuance of a Class A driving licence without following the official service mechanism.

In addition to investigating the internal violation, Denpasar Police are also looking into an alleged extortion attempt by two individuals claiming to be journalists from outside Bali. The two suspects allegedly contacted the Traffic Unit Chief and offered to remove the viral video in exchange for a sum of money.

Bhayangkara stated that he rejected the offer and is committed to resolving the matter according to legal procedures. Investigators have also indicated that the two individuals posing as journalists are allegedly involved in a separate case of threats and assault currently being handled by the Kuta Police Sector.

As an evaluative measure, the Traffic Unit will tighten internal supervision at the SIM service centre to ensure services are transparent, accountable, and free from illegal levies. The public is urged to always follow official procedures and avoid using intermediaries or touts when applying for a driving licence.