Bali Immigration Abuse – Hey Bali fam, buckle up for today’s episode of “Paradise Gone Wrong” – where two Bali immigration officers decided to moonlight as wannabe gangsters, assaulting a tourist in a case of mistaken identity that’s so absurd, it could be a Netflix crime comedy… if it wasn’t so damn alarming.
The “Immigration Gone Rogue” Plot Twist
Meet the “dynamic duo” of Bali immigration abuse:
- Ernest Ezmail (24) – Jakarta’s finest (until he wasn’t)
- Yopita Barinda Putri (24) – Central Java’s worst export since instant mie goreng
Their brilliant plan? Assault a random Russian tourist (Roman Smeilov) because a shady Russian dude named “GG” (real creative, guys) promised them:
- Rp 3 million (“operational fee” – aka bribe money)
- A cut of Rp 2.3 billion (that GG was totally going to share, pinky promise)
Spoiler: They got the wrong guy.
“If proven guilty, dismissal is very possible.”
— Parlindungan, Bali Immigration Head
How This Bali Immigration Abuse Went Down
- GG (alleged Russian “vigilante”) wanted revenge on a guy who stole his money.
- Ernest & Yopita thought: “Hey, let’s help… for a fee!”
- Roman (innocent tourist) got jumped in Jimbaran because… “Oops, wrong white guy!”
- Bali police found 27+ crime scenes linked to this clown show.
Moral of the story? If someone offers you “immigration help” in Bali, run faster than a scooter from Denpasar traffic cops.
The Real Cost of Bali Immigration Abuse
This isn’t just about two idiots in uniforms – it’s about:
✅ Tourist safety – Who trusts immigration now?
✅ Bali’s reputation – “Come for the beaches, stay for the shakedowns!”
✅ Digital nomad trust – “Wait, should I bribe or call a lawyer?”
Pro Tip: If an officer asks for “uang rokok” (cigarette money), reply: “Saya vegan, tidak merokok” (I’m vegan, I don’t smoke).
How NOT to Become the Next Victim
For expats, nomads, and tourists:
- Never hand over your passport to “helpers” outside official offices.
- Film discreetly if pressured for bribes (but don’t escalate).
- Report extortion to Bali Immigration HQ (0361-227828) or Tourist Police (0361-759687).
For Bali officials:
- Maybe stop hiring cops who think they’re in Money Heist?
The Bigger Problem: Corruption Tourism – Bali Immigration Abuse
Let’s be real – Bali immigration abuse isn’t new:
- Visa overstayers paying under the table
- “Agents” selling fake permits
- “Special fees” for “fast processing”
Why This Still Matters Today
Although the incident occurred weeks ago, the implications are unfolding now. The case highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in Bali’s immigration system and raises serious concerns about corruption, foreign vigilante behavior, and the misuse of public office.
As Bali continues to welcome millions of tourists and digital nomads each year, trust in immigration and law enforcement must be upheld. Abuse of power—especially when it involves international guests—is not just a scandal; it’s a threat to Bali’s reputation.
Travelers and long-term expats are urged to remain cautious when dealing with both public officials and unofficial networks offering to “solve” disputes. This is not just about one case—it’s about the system that allowed it.
Hey Bali Hot Take Bali Immigration Abuse :
“If we want Bali to be taken seriously, we need officers who enforce laws – not break them for Rp 3 million.” – Giostanovlatto