Police Oversee Vessel Capacity Monitoring for Mudik Travellers at Celukan Bawang Port

Police have prepared special security measures at Celukan Bawang Port, which will serve as a departure point for homebound travellers in Buleleng via sea routes during this year’s mudik season. Vessels from Celukan Bawang operate routes to Sapeken Island, Sumenep, Madura.

Buleleng Police Chief AKBP Ruzi Gusman stated that his office had established an integrated command post in the port area and stationed personnel to ensure the departure process for mudik travellers runs safely and orderly.

“As previously communicated in coordination meetings, Celukan Bawang Port will also serve as a departure point for mudik travellers via sea routes. An integrated command post has been established there and we have already stationed personnel to provide security,” he said on Friday (13 March 2026).

He explained that the police force would coordinate with the Celukan Bawang Port Authority and Harbormaster’s Office to arrange security procedures on the ground during the mudik exodus.

According to him, safety considerations represent the primary focus, particularly for residents who choose to return home using sea transport.

“The most important aspect we are paying attention to is the safety and security of mudik travellers. The vessels used must comply with capacity requirements and the number of passengers in the manifest must not exceed the limit,” he stated.

Police will also ensure zero tolerance for passenger overcrowding aboard vessels. Should authorities discover vessels exceeding capacity, officers will conduct public awareness campaigns encouraging residents to use alternative transport.

“If passenger overcrowding occurs, we will provide understanding to the public to seek alternative transport options. We do not want any forced boarding that could pose risks or undesired incidents, especially during sea voyages,” he emphasised.