Bali Shock: Chinese Tourist Sexually Assaulted and Robbed by Ojek Driver on New Year’s Eve
In a disturbing turn of events, a Chinese tourist, identified as JT, was sexually assaulted and robbed by an ojek (motorcycle taxi) driver after watching the New Year’s Eve fireworks show in Bali, Indonesia. The incident occurred in the Pecatu area of Kuta Selaten, Badung, Bali, early on New Year’s Day (January 1, 2025).
JT reported the harrowing incident to the Bali Police’s Criminal Investigation Division (Ditreskrimum) the following day. According to Detective Ketut Ekajaya from the Bali Provincial Police Public Relations Bureau, the investigation is ongoing as JT’s report was only received recently.
Sexual Assault and Robbery After Fireworks
JT was assaulted and robbed by an ojek driver after watching the fireworks display at Pantai Nyang Nyang, Pecatu. Accompanied by her friend KA, JT gave a detailed account of the events leading up to the attack and robbery.
Initially, JT and her six friends watched the fireworks together. Afterward, they attempted to hail ojecks to take them back to their accommodation at Jalan Labuansait, Pecatu. Four of JT’s friends managed to secure rides, while JT and two others were left waiting.
JT then decided to walk towards the nearest ojek stand. There, she spotted a driver who had just dropped off a passenger. She asked him for a ride back to her villa. The ojek driver agreed and started the journey with JT, leaving her two friends behind without a ride.
Instead of taking JT to her villa, the driver brought her to a secluded area on Jalan Batu Kandik, Pecatu, where he proceeded to assault her in the darkness.
"JT tried to call her friends, but there was no signal," said KA, who accompanied JT to the police station. "JT fought back, but the driver choked her and sexually assaulted her."
Robbed of Jewelry After Assault
After the assault, the ojek driver demanded money from JT. When she refused, he rummaged through her bag. Finding no cash, he spotted a diamond ring on her finger and forcibly removed it.
"After stealing the ring, he drove off, leaving JT behind," KA explained.
JT then managed to flag down a passing resident for help. She called her friends, who took her to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Bali’s Tarnished Image
The Bali Tourism Board (Dinas Pariwisata) expressed concern over the incident, warning that it could damage Bali’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination.
"The attack on this Chinese tourist is unfortunate, especially at a time when tourist arrivals are increasing," said Tjokorda Bagus Pemayun, head of the Bali Tourism Board. "We hope the police will act swiftly and severely to restore Bali’s image as a safe and welcoming destination."
As the investigation continues, JT has been provided with necessary support and assistance. The Bali Provincial Police encourages anyone with information regarding the suspect to come forward and contact the local authorities.
The names of the victims have been abbreviated to protect their identities.
(iws/iws)
