A foreign woman is in the custody of immigration authorities following a disturbance at a prayer room in Gili Trawangan, North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The incident occurred on the first night of Ramadan and was recorded and shared on social media.
Disruption During Ramadan Recitation
According to Muhammad Husni, Head of Gili Trawangan Hamlet, the woman objected to the sound of a Quran recitation being broadcast through a loudspeaker. Husni stated, “She took issue with the recitation, because she was disturbed by the loudspeaker.”
The woman reportedly approached the prayer room while residents were reciting the Quran. Husni said she was recorded shouting in front of the building and then entered to damage the microphone and other items.
A confrontation ensued, resulting in injury to one resident. Husni reported, “One of the residents was even injured. He scratched someone in self-defence. One of the figures in the prayer room even fell.” The woman then returned to her villa, located approximately 50 metres from the prayer room.
Immigration Investigation
Authorities identified the woman as a New Zealand citizen with the initials ML. She was taken into custody by immigration officials after it was discovered she may have overstayed her visitor visa.
I Komang Wilandra, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit of the North Lombok Police, confirmed that the woman was taken to the immigration office for further investigation into her visa status. Police provided security assistance during the process, involving officers from the Gili Indah Subsector Police and the Pemenang Police.
Initially, the woman refused to meet with authorities. However, Wilandra stated that officers used a “friendly approach” to resolve the situation, and she eventually agreed to meet with a limited number of personnel.
Immigration officials are continuing to investigate the woman’s visa status and determine the appropriate course of action. The case is being handled by the Directorate General of Immigration. Police have not announced any criminal charges related to the disturbance, focusing instead on maintaining public order and assisting immigration officials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the intervention of immigration authorities?
Immigration authorities were alerted after it was discovered that the woman, a New Zealand citizen, may have overstayed her visitor visa.
How did authorities approach the woman when they attempted to meet with her?
Authorities initially used a “friendly approach” to persuade the woman to meet with them after she initially refused.
What was the immediate aftermath of the disturbance at the prayer room?
The woman returned to her villa, and authorities began an investigation into her immigration status. One resident sustained a minor injury during the confrontation.
How can communities best navigate cultural differences to ensure peaceful coexistence during religious observances?
