Male Calf Stolen by Rejected Buyer in Karangasem After Refusing Rp 3 Million Offer

A livestock farmer named I Wayan Dana Sucipta lost his male calf after it was stolen by a prospective buyer in early 2026. The suspect absconded with the animal after becoming frustrated when his price offer was rejected.

The suspect, identified as I Wayan Merta (62), was arrested by police. He had previously attempted to negotiate a purchase of the victim’s calf but failed to reach an agreement on price.

Dana explained that Wayan Merta initially came to his home intending to buy the male calf. Dana wanted to sell the animal for Rp 5 million but Merta offered only Rp 3 million. Due to the excessively low offer, Dana refused to sell.

“The suspect came to my house three times to buy it, but I rejected him because the price was too low,” said Dana on Friday, 27 February 2026.

Apparently angered by the rejection of his offer, Wayan Merta subsequently stole the calf directly from its pen. Upon discovering the theft, the victim immediately reported the matter to police, and the suspect was arrested shortly thereafter.

Karangasem Police Commander AKBP I Made Santika stated that Wayan Merta is currently in custody at Karangasem Police Station. Merta has been charged under Article 477 of the Criminal Code regarding aggravated theft, which carries a maximum penalty of 9 years imprisonment.

“The suspect stole the calf directly from its pen,” said Santika.

The male calf, seized as evidence, has been immediately returned to its owner for continued care. Several other items of evidence, including a motorcycle, laptop and mobile phone, have also been returned to their owners.

In a statement, Karangasem Police reported apprehending 16 theft suspects over the past two months, including those from a major operation. The suspects’ initials are as follows: IWS (30), M (40), R (40), IWM (62), H (27), NB (27), IWG (30), IKK (24), KR (17), MDP (29), IPAP (29), ST (34), IKPA (19), DA (33), IKAS (20) and DA (43). All suspects are currently in custody at Karangasem Police Station pending further processing.

“We urge all members of the public to remain vigilant during their daily activities. Additionally, install more CCTV cameras in shops, homes and other locations to make it easier to track perpetrators when theft occurs,” stated Santika.