NUSA PENIDA, Bali — A British tourist has been arrested after allegedly stealing valuables from a French visitor at a popular beach bar on the Indonesian island of Nusa Penida, in a case that police say highlights their swift response to crimes involving foreign tourists.
The 26-year-old suspect, identified by his initials MAO, was taken into custody after officers tracked him to a hillside area, where he allegedly attempted to evade arrest before being apprehended.
According to Nusa Penida Police Chief I Ketut Kesuma Jaya, officers launched an immediate search after receiving the victim’s report.
“The suspect fled into the hills after the incident. Our officers conducted an intensive search and successfully arrested him after a brief pursuit,” Kesuma Jaya said.
Alleged Theft at a Busy Beach Bar
Police said the alleged theft occurred at Drift Bar in Banjar Nyuh, Ped Village, at around 3 a.m. on Sunday, while the venue was crowded with patrons.
Investigators believe the suspect took advantage of the busy atmosphere to search through the belongings of a 52-year-old French tourist, identified by the initials WLL, before taking several valuables without the victim noticing.
The alleged theft only came to light after the victim received a notification of a credit card transaction on his mobile phone. After checking his belongings and discovering several personal items were missing, he reported the incident to Nusa Penida Police later that morning.
Suspect Found Before Leaving the Island
Police immediately launched an investigation and traced the suspect while he was still on Nusa Penida.
According to investigators, the British national fled to a nearby hillside and attempted to hide before officers located and arrested him.
Police said they recovered several items believed to belong to the victim, including a shoulder bag, an iPhone 8, a power bank, a charger, cash amounting to Rp719,000, and other personal belongings.
The suspect is currently being held while detectives continue their investigation.
Swift Police Response
The incident comes as Nusa Penida continues to attract growing numbers of international visitors each year, drawn by its dramatic coastal scenery, world-famous diving sites and island-hopping experiences.
Police said the swift arrest reflected their commitment to responding quickly to crimes involving tourists and maintaining public confidence in one of Bali’s most visited island destinations.
“We remain committed to handling every report professionally to ensure security in Nusa Penida,” Kesuma Jaya said.
Police also reminded residents and visitors to report crimes as soon as possible. In Indonesia, emergencies and police assistance can be reached through the national Police Call Center 110, which operates free of charge, or by contacting the nearest police station.
