South African National Found Deceased in Tabanan Forest, Bali

The body of a man was found in a kneeling position, in a state of decomposition, in the middle of the Sangylang Forest, Banjar Dinas Gunung Sari Umakayu, Jatiluwih Village, Penebel District, Tabanan Regency, Bali, more than a week ago.

Following the identification process, the Tabanan Police have finally identified the deceased as a South African national, identified by the initials ACL (53).

The victim’s identity was revealed after police discovered a black iPhone 13 at the scene of the discovery.

“From the processing of the crime scene (TKP), various items were found, one of which was the iPhone. Medical ID data under the victim’s name was found on the device. Subsequently, we coordinated with Immigration until visitor permit data under the victim’s name was obtained,” said the Head of Public Relations for Tabanan Police, Iptu Ni Luh Putu Wiwik Endrayani, in a written statement on Tuesday (6/7).

Furthermore, the police also traced the victim’s place of residence in Bali. Based on Immigration data, the victim was recorded as staying at an inn or homestay in the Peliatan area, Ubud District, Gianyar Regency.

Investigations also led to an inn in Jatiluwih. According to the manager, the victim had booked a room for the period of 9–15 June 2026. However, on 13 June 2026, the victim left the homestay and never returned. After the rental period ended, several of the victim’s belongings were left in the room.

“There were several items left in the room, including an iPhone and a MacBook, which featured the same Medical ID as the mobile phone found at the crime scene,” she added.

Additionally, the owner and staff of the homestay also recognised the bag found with the body as belonging to the victim.

Although the victim’s identity has been established, the cause of death is still awaiting further examination. Investigators have performed an autopsy and will proceed with forensic toxicology testing.

“Tabanan Police are also coordinating with Immigration authorities and the South African Consulate for further handling,” she stated.

Previously, local residents were shocked by the discovery of an unidentified body in the middle of the Sangyang Forest, Jatiluwih Village, Tabanan, Bali. Iptu Endrayani stated that the body was found by residents on Sunday (28/6) morning. The condition of the body was already decomposing when discovered.

“Witnesses smelled an unpleasant odour while in the vicinity. After searching for the source of the smell, witnesses saw a human body in a hollow in the ground in a kneeling position,” said Endrayani on Monday (29/6).