It seems that Bali may soon see new raids targeting illegal workers. The latest wave of arrests and deportations was triggered by a high-profile case involving an Indian national, V.V., who was apprehended at Ngurah Rai Airport on suspicion of violating the terms of his visa. He had been working as a guide and driver for tourists on the island.
Tensions and dissatisfaction among locals in the tourism sector are growing. Balinese tour guides increasingly accuse foreigners of taking jobs from local workers. Acting Governor of Bali, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, stated: “Of course, I request the strictest measures against those who break the rules. We will not let anyone avoid accountability.”
The arrest of the Indian national who worked as a guide prompted a response from the Acting Head of Immigration at Ngurah Rai Airport, Anak Agung Bagus Narayana. He confirmed that the foreigner was detained following a public complaint made at Bali’s airport. Subsequently, the airport’s intelligence and immigration team conducted surveillance on the individual before detaining him. It was found that the Indian national had picked up some of his compatriots who had just arrived in Bali and was heading to his car with them.
The crackdown on foreigners who not only vacation in Bali but also attempt to earn money continues on multiple fronts. For several months, a special cyber group has been monitoring the social media activities of foreigners, focusing primarily on visa abuse. During this time, four cases of violations were identified, and ten foreigners were deported.
The cyber group will not only target illegally working foreigners but also those who break other laws. For instance, consuming alcohol while driving, theft, providing sexual services (including indirect ones), or distributing drugs. Content with sexual undertones, which is prohibited in Indonesia, will also come under scrutiny.
It is worth noting that foreigners in Bali are prohibited from performing any income-generating work without special authorization. This includes all types of work, from photography and guiding to yoga instruction, retreats, and seminars. Regarding tour guides, authorities have pledged not only to combat illegal workers but also to protect tourists from unlicensed guides.
The head of Bali’s tourism office, Cok Bagus Pemayun, reminded the public that all guides must have a valid Bali tour guide ID card and complete appropriate educational courses. Tourists are always advised to ask their guides to present their ID before booking a tour or at the start of the trip.
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