Police Disperse Foreigners Planning Illegal Street Race in South Kuta

DENPASAR — A group of foreign nationals were dispersed by police in South Kuta after being caught preparing for an illegal street race with Kawasaki Ninja motorcycles in the early hours of Friday, April 4, 2025.

The young tourists were spotted loitering suspiciously in front of an Indomaret store, near LPD Bualu, just before the action was about to start. Their behavior raised alarms during the South Kuta Police’s “Blue Light Patrol,” a routine operation aimed at ensuring public safety during the extended Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr holidays.

Led by South Kuta Police Duty Officer AKP I Made Windu Mertanaya, the patrol team monitored main roads and key tourist spots prone to crowds and disturbances during the holiday season. The suspected racers were promptly approached and warned.

“We observed a group of foreigners gathering in front of the convenience store and suspected they were preparing for a street race using large-displacement motorcycles, particularly Kawasaki Ninjas,” said AKP Windu.

Upon confrontation, officers issued stern warnings and explained the risks and legal consequences of illegal street racing. Following the warning, the foreign tourists voluntarily dispersed without resistance.

South Kuta Police Chief, AKP I Komang Agus Dharmayana, emphasized the importance of maintaining order during peak tourism periods and reiterated that the police will not hesitate to act decisively.

“We will take firm action against any public order disturbances, especially those that endanger lives or disrupt the safety of the community,” Dharmayana affirmed.

This incident serves as a reminder to all visitors that while Bali remains a top tourist destination, respect for local laws and regulations is non-negotiable.