The Bali police are investigating an incident that occurred during a cockfight in Songan Village (Kintamani), where an altercation between two men ended in a stabbing. One of the participants died, and two others were seriously injured.
According to the police, the conflict was instigated by a local resident named Luvez, who arrived at the arena intoxicated. He engaged in an argument with the fight organizer, and the verbal exchange quickly escalated into a fight. Sharp objects, including spurs and knives typically used in cockfighting, were involved. The organizer suffered a severe abdominal injury and later died at the hospital.
So far, the police have questioned 12 witnesses. Luvez is hospitalized, and his status in the case is not yet determined. No official charges have been filed.
Deputy Governor of Bali I Nyoman Giri Prasta expressed regret over the tragedy and emphasized that such incidents undermine the fundamental values of Balinese society—respect, peace, and unity. “We hope that in the future we will be more attentive to each other—friends watching over friends, colleagues watching over colleagues, all Bali residents should be more vigilant,” he said. According to him, alcohol was likely the cause of the aggression. It is unknown whether the cockfighting arena will be closed.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Hindu Students Union (KMHDI) has demanded a thorough investigation from the police and strict measures against turning tayen (cockfighting) into a form of gambling. According to the organization’s chairman, I Putu Dika Adi Suantara, these events are increasingly losing cultural context and becoming a source of violence.
“What happened in Songan is a shame for us, the Balinese. We condemn the incident and do not want it to happen again,” he stated.
KMHDI believes that the lack of control over illegal arenas not only undermines public safety but can also damage the island's reputation.
Source: nusabali
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