BADUNG, Bali — A 22-year-old Chinese national has reported a sexual assault and theft in Bali’s Pecatu area, in a case now under active investigation by provincial police.
The incident, which was formally reported on March 24, 2026, is alleged to have occurred in the early hours of the previous day along Jalan Labuan Sait, a route that connects several nightlife and coastal areas in South Kuta.
Authorities say the suspect remains unidentified.
Incident Reported After Early-Morning Encounter
According to police records, the victim had been at a nightlife venue in the Uluwatu area with a companion before leaving separately in the early morning hours.
Investigators said the victim later found herself on a motorcycle with an unknown man. She told authorities she could not clearly recall how she came to be on the vehicle, but became aware of the situation after the journey was already underway.
At that point, she realized the route did not lead toward her accommodation in the Berawa area.
Assault in a Secluded Location
Police say the suspect stopped in a quiet area surrounded by trees and vegetation along Jalan Labuan Sait.
It was there, investigators believe, that the assault took place.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the incident, citing the need to protect the victim’s privacy and the sensitivity of the case.
Phone Taken During Return Journey
After the incident, the suspect allegedly drove the victim toward her accommodation in Tibubeneng, North Kuta.
During the ride, he obtained possession of the victim’s mobile phone—identified as an iPhone 14—under the pretext of using it for navigation.
Upon arrival at the guesthouse at around 6:00 a.m., the victim entered the premises. The suspect then left the area with the phone, which has not been recovered.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Ariasandy confirmed that the case has been formally registered under police report number LP/B/264/III/2026/SPKT/POLDA BALI.
Investigators are currently gathering evidence, including witness statements and potential surveillance footage, as they work to identify and locate the suspect.
The case is being treated as both sexual assault and theft.
Authorities Urge Caution
Officials have reiterated the importance of personal safety awareness, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours in tourism areas.
Visitors are advised to use licensed or app-based transportation services, remain aware of their surroundings, and avoid traveling alone in unfamiliar or isolated areas where possible.
Authorities also encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses a crime to report it promptly and seek assistance from local authorities or their consulate.
A Case Under Scrutiny
While Bali remains one of Southeast Asia’s most visited destinations, isolated incidents such as this continue to draw attention to safety considerations in areas where nightlife activity intersects with less regulated transport options.
Police say the investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
#Heybalinews / Source: Radar Bali
