Nigerian National Flees During Immigration Check, Arrested in Ubud

A Nigerian national attempted to flee while being checked by officers during an immigration patrol in Ubud, Gianyar, Bali. Officers pursued the Nigerian national and detained two foreign nationals suspected of committing immigration violations.

Head of the Class I TPI Denpasar Immigration Office, R Haryo Sakti, said the patrol was conducted on Thursday evening (29/8). The operation targeted two areas that are centres of foreign activity, namely Ubud and Sanur, Denpasar.

“The patrol began at 20.00 WITA by the Intelligence and Immigration Enforcement Section (Inteldakim) team of the Class I TPI Denpasar Immigration Office,” Haryo said in a statement on Saturday (29/8/2026).

Haryo said officers coordinated with Ubud Police before sweeping a number of bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues in the Ubud area. Officers received information about two Nigerian nationals suspected of violating their residence permits who were hanging out at one of the entertainment venues in Ubud.

Officers then checked the two foreigners. According to Haryo, the situation became tense when one of the foreigners attempted to flee to avoid inspection.

A chase ensued until officers managed to detain the Nigerian national. Based on immigration data checks, officers found two different issues. One foreign national was recorded as having overstayed for 379 days. Meanwhile, the other foreign national was unable to show immigration documents. Both were immediately detained and taken to the Class I TPI Denpasar Immigration Office for further examination.

Meanwhile, the patrol in the Sanur area was carried out by sweeping a number of coffee shops, bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues. However, officers found no immigration violations during the patrol in the Sanur area.

Head of the Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration, Ramdhani, explained that the patrol was part of monitoring the presence and activities of foreign nationals on the Island of the Gods. He stressed that immigration authorities will take firm action against any foreigner who commits violations.

“A humane approach remains a priority in carrying out duties. However, if violations are found, immigration authorities must still act firmly, professionally and in accordance with the provisions of laws and regulations,” Ramdhani said.