Australian Man Dies While Diving in Tulamben Waters, Karangasem

written by Agil Maesyiatun Khasnaah

December 31, 2025

evacuation of victims with the Chief of Kubu Police AKP I Nyoman Sukarma, S.H., accompanied by the Criminal Investigation Unit Head of Kubu Police and on-duty officers. (Instagram/Kepolisian Sektor Kubu)

A foreign national from Australia died during a diving activity in the waters off Tulamben, Karangasem Regency, Bali, on Tuesday, 30 December 2025. The victim, identified by the initials NJS, 50, reportedly panicked while diving in the coastal waters of Pantai Segara, Desa Tulamben, Kecamatan Kubu.

The incident was confirmed by the Head of Public Relations of the Karangasem Police, Ipda I Nengah Artono, who said it occurred at around 11.30 WITA. The victim’s body was later evacuated and taken to RSUD Karangasem.

Incident During Guided Dive

Artono said the chronology was based on statements from witnesses, including BN, a South African national, and IYS, a local fisherman. According to the witnesses, the victim was diving with two instructors at the time of the incident.

At a depth of approximately 15 meters, the victim reportedly panicked, removed his diving regulator, and attempted to ascend rapidly to the surface.

Victim Sought Help at Surface

After reaching the surface, the victim was seen waving his hands and shouting for help toward the shoreline. His condition was noticed by IYS, who then used his boat to approach and assist the victim.

The available information does not detail the actions taken before the victim was brought ashore. However, the fisherman’s response enabled the victim to be evacuated from the water.

Medical Examination Findings

Following the rescue, medical personnel from the Kubu Community Health Center conducted an external examination. Artono said the examination found bruising on the chest and back, a bitten tongue, and foam coming from the victim’s nose.

Based on the examination, the victim was estimated to have died approximately one hour before being checked by medical staff.

Body Taken to Hospital

After the examination, the victim’s body was transported to RSUD Karangasem for further handling. Police stated that the incident was documented based on witness statements and medical examination results, with no additional investigative details provided.

Agil Maesyiatun Khasnaah

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