Rampant Pickpocketing in South Kuta, Badung Regent Calls for Nightly Patrols

In response to the surge in pickpocketing cases in South Kuta, Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa has called for the revival of the community security system (siskamling) with regular patrols, including maximising the role of pecalang. He made the remarks during a Waisak Day aid distribution event at Vihara Dharmayana on Thursday, 28 May 2026.

‘We must revive patrols. Pecalang, siskamling, bakamda. Let’s get started. I’ve seen on social media that pickpockets are active even in front of traffic lights, targeting foreigners in Kuta. This is damaging our tourism image,’ he said on Thursday, 28 May 2026.

He urged the DPRD chairman, vice regent, secretary, district heads, village heads, and relevant agencies to coordinate and reactivate the pecalang’s role in maintaining local security. Adi is also considering support measures for pecalang to enable nightly patrols.

‘If necessary, let’s work with the secretary to figure out how to support our pecalang. Ensuring they patrol daily and nightly will have a significant impact,’ he stated.

Beyond strengthening community security, Adi is reviewing the ‘Badung Terang’ programme to increase public street lighting in areas deemed vulnerable to crime. He noted that street lighting installation is already included in the regional budget, but implementation is being rolled out gradually and cannot cover all of Badung in the near term.

‘Therefore, we are exploring whether to involve third parties or other arrangements; this is currently under review,’ he explained.

Adi stressed that rising crime cannot continue as it undermines Bali’s reputation as a safe and comfortable tourist destination.

‘This situation must not persist in Bali, as it will damage Bali’s image as a tourism destination where visitors currently feel safe and comfortable,’ he added, referring to his former role as Badung Secretary.