Warning: Gold Theft in Bali Totals Rp2.4 Billion
Gold traders in Bali, commonly known as pengamplung, are urged to increase vigilance to prevent the circulation of stolen gold. In daily transactions, traders are now required to request official seller identification to avoid legal repercussions.
The request was made by Tri Mandala Coordinator I Kadek Mekel Suratnaya during a Public Security and Order consultation event with Bali Police, themed ‘Active Surveillance to Curb the Circulation of Stolen Gold in Bali’, held in Denpasar on Wednesday 27 May.
Bali Police, represented by IPTU I Made Wawan of Sub-Division IV of the Intelligence Directorate, explained that ignorance is not a legal defence. Purchasing goods reasonably suspected to be from criminal activity can be classified as receiving stolen goods.
“The consequence of buying stolen gold is prosecution under Article 480 of the Indonesian Criminal Code for receiving stolen goods. We urge gold traders on the ground to be more selective. Do not let your business become a haven for stolen goods,” stated Made Wawan.
Police data shows four gold theft cases recorded in Bali throughout 2026, with the most significant occurring in Jembrana Regency, causing losses of Rp2.4 billion.
Gold trader Luh Sri recounted her experiences dealing with suspicious sellers. She often encounters sellers claiming receipts are lost or wallets left behind when asked for identification.
“If sellers are like that, I firmly refuse to buy. But if they cooperate by showing their ID and are willing to sign a statement confirming the gold is not stolen, only then do I proceed with the transaction,” Luh Sri said.
Denpasar Village Chief Anak Agung Ngurah Alit Wirakesuma also supports this enforcement effort. He urged local traders to watch over each other and actively collaborate with police to ensure a safe business environment free from legal issues.
Members of the public or traders who spot suspicious transactions are advised to document the seller’s face and report to authorities or the nearest market coordinator.
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