Denpasar, Bali — The Badung Police precinct, which encompasses some of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations including Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, has reported an increase in narcotics cases and traffic accidents for 2025, with foreign nationals implicated in both categories.
According to year-end data released by police officials on Monday, narcotics-related crimes rose by 11.1 percent, from 108 cases in 2024 to 120 cases in 2025. From these cases, a total of 155 suspects were arrested, eight of whom are foreign nationals.
The suspects were involved in both distribution and consumption, with police noting that trafficking networks exploit Bali’s high-traffic tourism areas and population mobility. “The total number of suspects is 155 people. As dealers, 80 people, and as users, 75 people, with 8 people being foreign nationals,” explained Deputy Chief of Badung Police, Kompol I Gede Suarmawa.
Significant Drug Haul and Traffic Accident Spike
Authorities seized a substantial quantity of narcotics as evidence, including 1,834.7 grams of crystal methamphetamine (sabu), 25,270 ‘koplo’ pills, and 1,371.5 ecstasy pills, alongside other substances such as cannabis, cocaine, hashish, MDMA, and psychedelic mushrooms. Most evidence and suspects have been handed over to prosecutors.
In a separate but concerning trend, traffic accidents in the Badung regency also increased. Police recorded 1,097 accidents in 2025, a rise of 66 cases (approximately 6 percent) compared to the previous year.
While the number of accidents rose, fatalities decreased to 61. The total material loss from traffic incidents reached Rp 824.64 million. Police analysis indicates that productive-age adults are most involved, with the peak risk period between 9:00 PM and midnight. Motorcycles were the most common vehicles involved, and the Mengwi district was identified as the most accident-prone area.
Overall Crime Sees a Decline
Despite these increases, general criminality in Badung showed a notable decrease. The total number of general crime cases fell by 16.1 percent, from 494 cases in 2024 to 414 in 2025. These cases ranged from theft and assault to more serious offences like murder, sexual violence, and human trafficking.
From the general crime cases, 300 suspects were apprehended, 25 of whom were foreign nationals. The majority of these suspects have been handed over to the attorney general’s office for prosecution.
Context and Implications for Bali’s International Community
For expatriates and tourists in Bali, this data serves as a crucial, factual reminder of local realities:
- Narcotics Enforcement is Severe: Indonesia has some of the world’s strictest drug laws, with penalties ranging from lengthy imprisonment to the death penalty for trafficking. Involvement with illegal substances carries extreme risk, regardless of nationality.
- Road Safety Demands Attention: The high number of motorcycle accidents underscores the need for extreme caution. Visitors should ensure they possess an appropriate international driving permit, always wear a helmet, and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or fatigue, especially late at night.
- A Mixed Security Picture: The overall drop in general crime is positive, but the specific rises in drugs and traffic incidents highlight areas where personal vigilance and lawful conduct are paramount.
The police data underscores the ongoing challenges of managing safety in a dense international tourist zone and serves as an official prompt for all residents and visitors to prioritise lawful and cautious behaviour.
Reported by Ferry Fadly
Written by Hey Bali Newsroom
