Police Reveal New Facts in Fatal Beating of Chicken Thief in Baturiti
Tabanan Police have revealed new facts regarding the fatal mob attack on a suspected chicken thief in Banjar Dinas Juwuk Legi, Batunya Village, Baturiti District, on Friday (24/7). During a press conference at the Tabanan Police headquarters on Sunday (26/7) evening, authorities confirmed the victim was caught red-handed with two stolen chickens.
Tabanan Police Chief AKBP I Putu Bayu Pati stated that the victim, identified as KD, was no stranger to the law. According to police records, KD was a repeat offender previously convicted for clove theft in 2018, a case handled by the Tabanan Police. Furthermore, the motorcycle KD was using, which was set ablaze by the mob, was reportedly stolen in Bangli Regency in 2019.
“It is true that the individual was a repeat offender and had committed similar crimes before. However, the law enforcement we carry out must still be measured,” Bayu Pati said.
Regarding the theft allegation, police confirmed the victim was carrying two chickens. However, the breed and economic value of the chickens are still under investigation. “He was found carrying two stolen chickens. We are still looking into the type of chickens and their value to avoid any misinformation,” he explained. Police also confirmed that the victim was carrying a sharp weapon, a knife, as well as a catapult and small stones during the incident.
As the investigation progresses, police have named five individuals as suspects, identified by the initials MJ, WS, KB, ML, and ND. Although information suggests more people may have been involved, investigators are currently focusing on the roles of these five before determining if additional suspects will be named. “We cannot yet disclose their individual roles as the investigation is ongoing. These five are the ones we have named as suspects based on the preliminary evidence,” he stressed.
Police also dismissed claims that the case was being handled slowly. According to authorities, the investigative team worked tirelessly for two days to gather evidence and shed light on the incident. “We did not sleep for two days to expedite the investigation. We held this press conference immediately after returning from the investigation site at the Baturiti Police Station,” he stated.
Based on police data, six cases of chicken theft have been reported in the jurisdiction throughout 2026. Police noted that the rising number of livestock thefts has contributed to public unease. Following the incident, police confirmed the situation in Batunya Village is now under control. However, security measures remain in place, and authorities are urging the public to refrain from vigilante justice and to report any suspected criminal activity to law enforcement.