KUTA, Bali — A New Zealand tourist who was using Google Maps while riding through one of Bali’s busiest roads lost her newly released iPhone 17 Pro Max in a daylight snatch theft, highlighting a crime pattern that police say continues to target distracted motorcyclists, particularly foreign visitors.
Authorities have since arrested the suspect, a repeat offender with an extensive criminal record, after tracking him to neighboring Banyuwangi, across the Bali Strait in East Java.
The incident occurred on June 12 along Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, near the Tuban Underpass in Kuta, a major route connecting Bali’s international airport with popular tourist destinations including Seminyak, Jimbaran, and Nusa Dua.
According to Bali Police spokesperson Senior Commissioner Ariasandy, investigators identified the suspect through witness statements, surveillance footage, and videos that later circulated on social media.
“The investigation led us to Banyuwangi, where the suspect had fled after the incident,” Ariasandy said on Tuesday.
Phone Grabbed in Seconds
The victim, identified as Maia Broughton Edward, was riding as a passenger on a motorcycle after returning from Melasti Beach when she took out her phone to check directions using Google Maps.
Police say the suspect approached the motorcycle from behind before suddenly grabbing the device from her hands and speeding away.
The stolen phone, an iPhone 17 Pro Max, was valued at approximately Rp17 million (around US$1,000).
The tourist later reported the theft to Kuta Police, triggering an investigation.
Arrest Across the Bali Strait
After tracing the suspect’s movements, Bali Police coordinated with officers in Banyuwangi, where the man was arrested at a hotel.
Police identified him only by the initials MAS.
During questioning, investigators said the suspect admitted carrying out the theft and directed officers to additional evidence stored in Jimbaran, south of Bali’s airport.
Authorities seized the Yamaha NMAX scooter allegedly used during the crime, two counterfeit license plates, and five mobile phones, including the victim’s stolen iPhone.
Police: Foreign Tourists Were the Main Target
Investigators say the suspect is a six-time repeat offender with previous criminal convictions.
Police also allege he had connections to another convicted phone snatcher who supplied him with stolen mobile devices.
According to investigators, the suspect consistently targeted riders who were visibly holding smartphones while traveling, especially foreign tourists relying on navigation apps.
The method was simple but effective: approach from behind on a motorcycle, seize the phone within seconds, and disappear into traffic before victims had time to react.
Staying Safe While Exploring Bali
Bali remains one of Southeast Asia’s safest and most welcoming destinations for international travelers, welcoming millions of visitors every year.
However, police regularly advise tourists to avoid holding expensive smartphones openly while riding on motorcycles, particularly when using navigation apps in busy traffic corridors.
Instead, authorities recommend using a secure phone mount, relying on voice navigation through earphones where appropriate, or checking directions before setting off.
For many travelers, Google Maps is an essential tool for exploring Bali independently.
Police say taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of becoming an easy target for opportunistic thieves.
The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to face prosecution under Indonesian criminal law.
