Jembrana Police Confirm 'Pocong Robbery' Hoax Amid Social Media Panic

Social media and messaging apps have recently been stirred by claims of a ‘pocong terror’ modus operandi allegedly used in new robberies. The rumour even suggested it had occurred in a village in Jembrana, Bali.

In response, Jembrana Police confirmed the widespread information is a hoax. Authorities are now investigating those spreading the alarming misinformation.

According to information obtained from detikBali, the circulating message urged residents to be vigilant against fake pocong threats after midnight, particularly past 12:00 AM WITA. The message detailed signs of the ‘pocong’s’ presence, including the sound of a motorcycle within 2-3 metres of homes followed by door knocks. Suspects were reportedly armed with sharp weapons such as knives and other tools, with claims they would circle homes if doors were not opened.

Jembrana Police Chief AKBP Kadek Citra Dewi Suparwati stated that claims of a ‘pocong robbery’ within her jurisdiction are entirely false. She urged Jembrana residents to remain calm and not to panic.

‘There is no such issue; the ’pocong robbery’ rumour is untrue. Do not panic. If anything disturbs you, report it immediately to our 110 service,’ Citra told detikBali on Monday, 25 May 2026.

Citra also clarified that videos and photos cited in the messages were from incidents outside Jembrana, exploited by irresponsible individuals to spread psychological terror and hoaxes locally.

Authorities advised the public to be discerning and verify social media information before believing it. ‘Do not be easily provoked,’ Citra added.

Jembrana Police assured they would not stand idle, tracing the origin of the chain messages to ensure the safety of Gumi Makepung residents.

‘We are still investigating the source of the hoax spread,’ Citra concluded.