US Tourist Arrested by Pecalang for Wandering During Nyepi

A United States citizen, Karl Adolf Amrhein, was arrested by pecalang from Desa Adat Sukawati after being caught wandering along Jalan Raya Sukawati during Nyepi. The 57-year-old man was secured for violating the provisions of the holy day in Bali, which prohibits activities outside the home. “Yes, a foreigner was secured for being on the road during Nyepi,” said Gianyar Police Chief AKBP Chandra Kesuma to detikBali on Thursday (20/3/2026). The incident occurred around 07:15 WITA. The tourist was seen walking with a bag on Jalan Raya Sukawati. His actions were then stopped by a pecalang named I Dewa Gede Sukadana. When asked why he was outside during Nyepi, Amrhein initially remained silent. He was then escorted to the Sukawati Police Station along with other pecalang for further questioning. Upon arrival at the Sukawati Police Station and after police interrogation, Amrhein finally spoke up. He admitted to venturing out from his hotel in Ubud because his stay had expired. “He claimed to have boldly wandered the streets to find a new hotel,” said Chandra. Chandra explained that Amrhein was offered accommodation at the Sukawati Police Station. However, he refused and insisted on finding a new hotel. After receiving a recommendation for the nearest hotel, Amrhein finally agreed. He is now staying at the new hotel at an agreed price. “He has been directed to stay at a hotel in Sukawati during Nyepi,” he said.