A police officer was taken into custody after being caught riding a motorcycle during Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, in Jembrana, Bali, on 29 March 2025. The officer, identified by the initials MC, was apprehended by the Badan Keamanan Desa Adat (Bankamda) in Desa Adat Sumberasri, Kecamatan Melaya, along with another individual.
Incident Caught on Camera
A video of the two individuals roaming the streets during Nyepi went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism.
According to I Ketut Subanda, the Bendesa Desa Adat Sumberasri, the two were suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of their arrest.
“From their breath, we suspected they had consumed alcohol,” Subanda said on 30 March 2025.
Apprehension and Transfer
The pair was stopped during a routine patrol by Bankamda officers ensuring compliance with Nyepi restrictions. One of them was unable to provide identification. They were later escorted back to Gilimanuk under tight security and handed over to Pecalang Desa Adat Gilimanuk for further handling.
“We sent them back to Gilimanuk. There was also a meeting today, and we will communicate the results,” Subanda stated.
Police Response and Legal Action
Jembrana Police Chief AKBP Endang Tri Purwanto confirmed that MC has been taken into custody and is undergoing legal proceedings. The officer was picked up by the Professional and Security Unit (Propam) of Gilimanuk Police at around 06.00 WITA on 30 March and transferred to Jembrana Police Headquarters.
“MC has been placed in a special holding area for further investigation. He is already under detention,” Endang said.
Investigators from the Propam Division will also question witnesses regarding the incident. Endang emphasized that MC had abandoned his post while on duty, which he described as unprofessional conduct.
“If proven guilty, he will face strict disciplinary sanctions for violating the Police Code of Ethics,” he added.
Community and Police Cooperation
Jembrana Police have coordinated with local traditional leaders regarding customary sanctions. As part of the response, 100 kilograms of rice were donated to both Desa Adat Gilimanuk and Desa Adat Sumbersari.
Bendesa Adat Gilimanuk, I Ketut Subanda, stated that the village is leaving the legal process to the police but expects MC to issue a public apology.
“Given the swift response from the police chief, we trust the authorities to handle this case appropriately,” he said.
