Two British nationals, identified as EA (30) and BC (28), have been issued a formal written warning by the Class II Immigration Office in Labuan Bajo after they were caught performing a dangerous motorbike stunt on a busy public road. The pair had been detained earlier by immigration officers and the Manggarai Barat Police following reports of reckless riding in the popular tourism hub of Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
Saiful Basyir, Head of Intelligence and Immigration Enforcement at the Labuan Bajo Office, confirmed the disciplinary action in an official statement released Friday (12/12/2025).
“We have issued formal written warnings to both foreign nationals,” Saiful said. “They are required to comply with Indonesian law and to respect the cultural values of the local community.”
Authorities also confirmed that both EA and BC hold valid tourist visas for their stay in Indonesia.
Reckless Stunt Caught on Camera
The case began when the Manggarai Barat Police and Immigration Office identified footage circulating widely on social media. The video shows both tourists riding a motorbike on Jalan Mgr. Van Bekkum, lifting the front wheel in a freestyle wheelie maneuver. The incident occurred during peak traffic hours, posing a serious risk to surrounding motorists.
Once the video spread online, police teams from the Traffic Unit (Satlantas), Intelligence (Satintelkam), and Class III Immigration Labuan Bajo launched a coordinated effort to track down the riders.
AKP I Made Supartha Purnama, Head of the Manggarai Barat Traffic Unit, confirmed the timeline of the investigation.
“The incident took place on Tuesday, December 9. After tracing the video and gathering witness statements, our officers secured both individuals on Wednesday (10/12/2025). Their initials are EA, aged 30, and BC, aged 28 — both British citizens,” Supartha said in a written statement Thursday (11/12/2025).
Motivated by ‘Attention and Fun’
During questioning at the Manggarai Barat Police Station, both tourists admitted that the stunt was performed “just for fun” and to attract attention.
“Based on our examination, they carried out the freestyle stunt simply for show,” Supartha said. “They were not aware of the risks they imposed on themselves and on other road users.”
Following the investigation, the police issued the pair a formal reprimand and required them to sign a written statement promising not to repeat the act.
“They were also instructed to record a video apology addressed to the people of Labuan Bajo for the dangerous stunt they performed,” Supartha added.
Police Stress Zero Tolerance for Freestyle Riding
Authorities emphasized that motorbike stunts such as wheelies, stoppies, or burnouts are strictly prohibited on public roads under Indonesian traffic law. Police cited multiple provisions in Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation (LLAJ).
According to Article 105, all road users must behave responsibly and obey traffic rules to ensure safety and order. Article 106 further requires every motorist to operate their vehicle with full concentration and caution.
“Freestyle riding involves extreme movements that clearly violate traffic regulations,” Supartha affirmed. “These actions endanger not only the rider but everyone around them.”
Heightened Sensitivity Toward Tourist Misconduct
The incident adds to a growing list of concerns involving foreign tourists behaving irresponsibly in Indonesia’s tourism destinations. Labuan Bajo, known for its high-end resorts and access to Komodo National Park, has seen increasing sensitivity to reckless behavior that threatens public safety or disrespects local norms.
Immigration officials confirmed that EA and BC will be allowed to remain in Indonesia, but the written warning will remain on their immigration record. Future violations could lead to stronger sanctions, including deportation.
Local authorities stressed that tourism is welcome, but not at the expense of community safety and cultural respect.
“Visitors are always welcome here,” Saiful said. “But respecting our laws and traditions is non-negotiable.”
Reported by Ferry Fadly
Written by Hey Bali Newsroom
