BADUNG, Bali — A Singaporean tourist has become the latest victim of a street snatching in Bali after a man on a motorcycle allegedly ripped a 24-gram gold necklace from his neck before speeding away through the busy streets of Canggu.
The victim, identified by the initials CYH, 26, suffered minor injuries after attempting to chase the suspect, who remains at large.
Police said the robbery occurred at approximately 10:10 p.m. on Sunday along Gang Anggrek, a road in North Kuta’s increasingly popular Canggu district.
According to North Kuta Police Chief I Ketut Sukadana, the tourist was riding a motorcycle northbound when another rider approached rapidly from behind.
“The suspect came from behind at high speed, grabbed the necklace the victim was wearing, and immediately fled the scene,” Sukadana said on Tuesday.
Tourist Injured While Chasing Suspect
Authorities said the victim attempted to pursue the fleeing motorcyclist but lost control and crashed near Sei Ya Villa.
He suffered abrasions to his hands, while his motorcycle sustained minor damage.
The suspect reportedly escaped westbound via one of Canggu’s shortcut roads, disappearing before police arrived.
Police Reviewing CCTV Footage
Investigators have launched a criminal investigation and are examining surveillance footage collected from the surrounding area.
Police said officers identified at least six CCTV cameras positioned along the suspected escape route and are reviewing the recordings in an effort to identify the rider.
Based on preliminary witness descriptions, the suspect is believed to be a man riding a black Yamaha NMax scooter, wearing a black helmet, black jacket and long trousers.
No arrests have been made.
Popular Tourist Area
Canggu has become one of Bali’s busiest destinations, attracting surfers, digital nomads and holidaymakers from around the world. Its lively nightlife and heavy motorcycle traffic have also made it one of the island’s most congested areas after dark.
While violent crime involving tourists remains relatively uncommon, police advise visitors to avoid displaying expensive jewellery or valuables in public, particularly when travelling by motorcycle at night.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the robbery to contact the North Kuta Police or Indonesia’s emergency police hotline by dialing 110 as the investigation continues.
