Probolinggo Regent Responds to Theft of Thai Tourists' Luggage at Mount Bromo

Probolinggo Regent Mohammad Haris, known as Gus Haris, has spoken out regarding the theft of luggage belonging to Thai tourists whilst holidaying at the Mount Bromo tourist area in Sukapura District, Probolinggo Regency, East Java.

The theft occurred when the group’s vehicle was parked at the Sukapura District pavilion in Probolinggo Regency on Sunday (15/2). Losses are estimated to have reached hundreds of millions of rupiah.

“On behalf of myself and the Probolinggo Regency Government, I wish to express my deepest concern over the incident of lost belongings experienced by the group of Thai tourists in the Bromo area,” said Gus Haris on Monday (16/2).

Gus Haris noted that Bromo is a premier tourist destination in East Java and indeed across Indonesia. He therefore stressed that tourist safety should be a paramount consideration.

“Bromo is the face of our tourism. Every tourist who visits is not merely a guest but a friend whom we must all protect. For that reason, a sense of security is a fundamental part of the tourism experience,” he said.

The theft, he said, serves as a warning for all parties in Probolinggo to tighten security, particularly at tourist location points.

“Tourism will only grow if visitors return home feeling safe, comfortable, and carrying positive stories about Probolinggo,” he stated.

He expressed hope that the incident would not traumatise tourists from visiting his region. He pledged to carry out an evaluation and strengthen surveillance.

“Bromo must not only be beautiful to behold but also safe to experience. Tourism security is a matter of honour for our region,” said Gus Haris.

Seven suitcases containing valuable belongings of the Thai tourists had previously been stolen by thieves during their holiday in the Mount Bromo area, Probolinggo Regency, East Java. Losses are estimated to have reached hundreds of millions of rupiah.

Jhonni, the travel agent accompanying the Thai tourists, said the theft took place when the group’s vehicle was parked at the Sukapura District pavilion in Probolinggo Regency on Sunday (15/2).

The incident began when the group was transported to Bromo using a Toyota Hiace minibus. Upon arriving at the bus stop pavilion area, the driver and tourists briefly alighted.

All suitcases and belongings were stored inside the parked vehicle, which was locked. However, when they returned, the previously locked car door felt difficult to open.

“When it was opened, the interior was in disarray. The suitcases that had been neatly arranged were scattered about. After checking, seven suitcases were missing,” said Jhonni on Monday (16/2).

Based on compiled data, victims’ losses are estimated at hundreds of millions of rupiah. A number of valuable items were reported missing, ranging from passports and cash to electronic devices.

A red bag belonging to victim Kanthuma Puk, containing make-up, clothing, and a wallet with Rp3,251,046 in cash, was also taken.

A black-and-red backpack belonging to Chinnapat Jadcharoen was likewise stolen. It contained a Ricoh GR IV camera valued at Rp26,550,209, an iPhone 13 Pro unit, clothing, and earphones.

Meanwhile, a black backpack belonging to Ananya Seeda containing an iPad Air 5, a Redmi Note 15, and clothing was also targeted.

Two other bags belonging to Naowarat and Sawatphiphatphon containing clothing were also taken. Additionally, a black backpack belonging to Chanidapa Pavichievac containing clothing was reported missing.

One of the victims, Kathuma Puk, expressed deep disappointment over the incident. She said the loss had a significant impact on her return plans, as her passport was also among the stolen items.

“I am very disappointed with what I have experienced. As a result of the theft, I am having difficulty arranging a passport for my return journey. Can the police recover my missing belongings?” said Kathuma.

Head of Criminal Investigation at Probolinggo Police, AKP I Made Kembar Mertadana, confirmed that the victims’ report had been officially received through the Integrated Police Service Centre and is now under intensive investigation.

He assured that his team is moving swiftly to conduct a series of investigations, from processing the crime scene, examining witnesses, to tracing CCTV footage around the location.

“We have received the report. We will do our utmost to handle this case,” said Made.