Bali police have named two Australian nationals, MJLG and LJLG, as suspects in a prostitution ring disguised as a spa business. The couple, who are the owners of Pink Palace Bali Spa on Jalan Mertasari, Kerobokan Kelod, North Kuta, Badung Regency, are facing serious charges. This was confirmed by the Deputy Director of the Bali Police, AKBP I Ketut Suarnaya, on Friday, October 11, 2024.
The investigation into Pink Palace Bali Spa started after the police received reports from the public about illegal activities at the spa, where prostitution was operating under the guise of spa services. The two Australian nationals, a husband and wife who have been living in Bali for over a year, have openly operated the business, which involved more than just offering spa packages.
Spa Services Mask Prostitution
According to AKBP Suarnaya, the spa was using two pick-up cars with advertisements promoting the spa. Once inside, guests were offered spa packages, after which they were directed to rooms containing female therapists. After selecting a therapist, the customer and therapist would then proceed to a private room where sexual services were provided.
During the raid on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at around 9:10 PM, Bali police discovered dozens of women employed as therapists. Among them was a minor, identified as NSP, who was just 17 years old. This shocking discovery led to the swift arrest of six individuals, including the Australian couple.
Charges and Legal Consequences
In addition to the two Australians, four Indonesian nationals have also been named as suspects. These include WS (37), the director of the spa; NMWS (34), the general manager; WW (29); and IGNJ (33), both receptionists. The police have charged all six suspects under Indonesia’s Child Protection and Pornography Laws.
The charges brought against the suspects include violations of Article 76 in conjunction with Article 88 of the Child Protection Law. These articles strictly prohibit the economic and sexual exploitation of children. They are also charged under Indonesia’s Pornography Law (Articles 29, 30, and 4 of Law No. 44/2008) and additional sections of the Criminal Code, which cover acts of prostitution and human exploitation.
Foreign Clientele and Spa Shutdown
Pink Palace Bali Spa had reportedly become popular among foreign tourists, with a significant portion of its clientele being non-Indonesian nationals. Following the raid, the spa was immediately shut down, and police lines were placed around the premises to prevent further operation.
Police seized several items of evidence from the spa, including two black pick-up trucks, hundreds of condoms, and Rp6 million in cash. The six suspects remain in custody at the Bali Police Detention House while the case is prepared for prosecution.
Final Thoughts
This case has sent shockwaves throughout the local community and highlights the darker side of Bali’s tourism industry. The Bali Police have expressed their commitment to eradicating illegal prostitution rings and ensuring that businesses, especially those targeting tourists, operate within the law. The swift action taken in this case has been praised, and authorities are determined to continue investigations into similar establishments across the island.
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities as Bali’s law enforcement agencies continue to crack down on illegal businesses that exploit vulnerable individuals for profit.
