30-5-2023 (JAKARTA) Authorities in Bali have apprehended a Danish national for her participation in a pornographic video that was uploaded to social media. The arrest is part of the ongoing efforts by local authorities to crack down on disruptive behavior exhibited by visitors in the region.
The 50-year-old woman, identified only by her initials CAP, may face up to 10 years of imprisonment if found guilty of violating the Pornography Law. Bali Police Chief Sr Comr Stefanus Satake Bayu Setianto informed the media that CAP has been named a suspect under Article 36 of the controversial 2008 law.
According to Satake, the article stipulates that individuals who display nudity, engage in sexual exploitation, or disseminate pornographic content in public could face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and/or a fine of Rp 5 billion (approximately S$453,000).
Investigations revealed that CAP featured in a viral video where she exposed her genitalia by lifting her skirt and leg to the camera while riding as a passenger on a motorcycle. The video was apparently recorded in Seminyak around midnight in December 2022.
“The motive behind her actions is still unknown, and the investigation led by the Denpasar Police is ongoing,” Satake stated. The Danish national was initially apprehended by immigration officials and later handed over to the police for charges related to the violation of the Pornography Law. Sugito, the head of the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office, stated that their officers promptly responded to the video circulating online by initiating an investigation.
CAP was located at a hotel in Legian on May 27, and arrangements were made with the hotel management to facilitate her questioning.
“After conducting our team’s investigation, it was confirmed that CAP is a Danish citizen who entered the country on April 9, 2023, using the visa on arrival facility at Ngurah Rai International Airport. Her visa is valid until June 7, 2023,” Sugito explained.
Anggiat Napitupulu, the head of the Bali Law and Human Rights Agency, expressed appreciation for the proactive role played by the Balinese community in monitoring and reporting instances of misconduct by foreigners. He emphasized that all reports would be thoroughly investigated as long as they were accompanied by sufficient evidence.
Bali, with its predominantly Hindu population, remains a highly sought-after tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. However, the local community has been grappling with an increasing number of foreign visitors who disregard local customs and traditions. As a response, authorities have intensified their efforts to address legal violations committed by foreigners.
Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim nation, maintains conservative values in regard to religious beliefs and their impact on public and individual privacy. This is reflected in the prevailing laws and regulations of the country.
