Police investigating motive behind 'silver man' threatening motorists in Kuta, Bali

The police are still investigating the motives of a man known as a ‘silver man’, identified as Andra Winata (26), who allegedly threatened motorists with a sharp weapon at a traffic light at the intersection of Jalan Imam Bonjol and Jalan Sunset Road, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali.

Kuta Police Chief, Commissioner Laksmi Trisnadewi Wieryawan, stated on Monday in Denpasar that the suspect has not yet clearly disclosed the reason for carrying and brandishing a weapon while busking at the intersection. “Regarding his intention, he himself has not explicitly stated his purpose so far,” Commissioner Laksmi said during an interview at the Denpasar Police Headquarters.

However, police are still verifying the veracity of his statements. “That was his initial statement. We are still investigating whether a person named Ujang actually exists. The investigation is ongoing,” she added.

Police are also conducting forensic comparisons on the seized weapon before determining the suspect’s legal status. Trisnadewi further noted that the suspect is known to live a nomadic lifestyle within the Kuta area, making it difficult for police to confirm exactly how long he has been residing in Bali.

Despite the incident causing public anxiety, police confirmed that the perpetrator did not specifically target foreign tourists. The targets were reportedly motorists stopped at the traffic lights. The Police Chief also expressed appreciation to the public and netizens for quickly making the video of the incident viral, which assisted the police in identifying and apprehending the suspect.

Regarding the presence of street performers and ‘silver men’ in the Kuta area, the police stated they have coordinated with the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP), community security (Linmas), and the Social Services Department to conduct joint enforcement. “We are working in synergy, with the hope that if such individuals are found, they can be secured together and then handed over to the social services department,” she said.

Previously, the Kuta Police Criminal Investigation Unit apprehended Andra Winata, originally from Batujajar, West Bandung Regency, West Java, on Sunday (17/5), after video footage of him brandishing a knife while performing as a ‘silver man’ circulated widely on social media. Police have not yet officially designated the suspect as a formal defendant as he continues to undergo intensive interrogation at the Kuta Police Station.