TABANAN, Bali — Police in Bali are investigating the discovery of a decomposed man’s body in a forest near Jatiluwih, the island’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage landscape, after local residents stumbled upon the remains while searching for the source of a foul odor.
The body, whose identity has not yet been established, was found on Sunday morning inside Sangyang Forest in the village of Jatiluwih, a destination internationally known for its centuries-old rice terraces and traditional Balinese irrigation system.
Authorities have not determined how the man died.
A Discovery Hidden in the Forest
According to Tabanan Police spokesperson First Inspector Ni Luh Putu Wiwik Endrayani, the discovery was made by a local resident who had entered the forest before noticing a strong smell coming from a shallow depression in the ground.
“As the witness searched for the source of the odor, he discovered what appeared to be a human body in a kneeling position,” Wiwik said on Monday.
The witness immediately informed local village authorities, who alerted Penebel Police.
Officers secured the area and launched an investigation.
Personal Belongings Recovered
Crime scene investigators recovered several personal items believed to belong to the deceased, which may help establish his identity.
Among the belongings found were:
- a turquoise backpack bearing the words “Paradise Madness”
- a dark blue Diesel Worldwide Editions jacket
- a small shoulder bag
- an iPhone fitted with a red protective case
Police also recovered a vape device, prescription supplements, vitamin C tablets, eyeglasses, an orange raincoat, bottled water, and a pair of earphones.
Investigators have not disclosed whether the phone or other electronic devices have yielded any immediate clues.
Autopsy Ordered
The body has been transported to Prof. Ngoerah General Hospital in Denpasar, where forensic specialists are expected to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and approximate time of death.
Police have not indicated whether they suspect foul play.
Investigators are currently working to identify the victim and reconstruct his final movements.
Questions Remain
The discovery has surprised residents of Jatiluwih, an area better known for its tranquil mountain scenery than serious criminal investigations.
Located roughly two hours northwest of Bali’s main tourism hubs, Jatiluwih attracts thousands of international visitors each year for its panoramic rice terraces, hiking routes, and cultural heritage, making Sunday’s discovery particularly unusual.
Authorities are asking anyone who may recognize the recovered belongings or who has information regarding missing persons to contact local police.
Until forensic examinations are completed, investigators say all possibilities regarding the man’s death remain open.
For residents and visitors: Police have not indicated any ongoing public safety threat related to the discovery. However, anyone with information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact Penebel Police or the nearest police station.
