Polish Tourist Assaults Police Officer in Bali Over Drone Incident
A 38-year-old Polish national, identified as Bokszanski, has been arrested for assaulting a police officer after being confronted for flying a drone in the vicinity of a popular beach club in Uluwatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening (November 10) when security personnel spotted Bokszanski operating a drone from an empty lot near the beach club. The drone was reportedly directed toward the club, recording footage of visitors, raising privacy concerns.
According to Bali Police spokesperson Kombes Jansen Avitus, security staff approached Bokszanski and asked him to delete the footage. Instead of complying, the tourist allegedly struck one of the security guards with a beer bottle.
“The individual refused to delete the recordings and reacted aggressively by attacking the security staff,” Jansen stated on Wednesday (November 13).
The altercation escalated when the security team reported the matter to local police patrolling the area. Officers arrived at the scene and instructed Bokszanski to comply with the security guard’s request. However, the tourist remained defiant and attempted to flee.
In the ensuing confrontation, Bokszanski reportedly resisted arrest and assaulted a member of the Mobile Brigade Corps (Brimob), identified as I Gede Wika Ardyana, 23, injuring his right ankle.
“The suspect resisted detention and even threw our officer to the ground, resulting in an ankle injury,” Jansen confirmed.
Additional officers were called in to subdue Bokszanski, who was eventually taken into custody and transported to the Brimob detention center for further questioning.
The incident has raised discussions about the responsibilities of tourists in respecting local laws and customs. Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining privacy and following regulations, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas.
Bokszanski is currently being held as police continue their investigation. Legal actions are expected to follow, with charges likely to include assault and violations of drone usage laws.
