Tourists Warned of Rising Phone and Jewelry Snatchings by Motorbike in Bali

Tourists visiting Bali have been warned about a significant increase in thefts involving mobile phones, jewelry, and bags snatched by passing motorbikes. The incidents mainly occur in crowded markets, busy streets, and popular tourist areas where thieves on scooters grab valuables and quickly flee the scene. Samantha, a frequent Bali travel informant, shared a video earlier this month highlighting local warnings about this trend, especially the snatching of necklaces from around the neck by riders on passing motorbikes.

Samantha described the situation as a major problem on the island currently, with many local friends cautioning her about these thefts. She advised tourists to hide jewelry while walking, keep phones inside handbags, and carry valuables on the side away from the road to make it harder for thieves to snatch items. Travel expert Angus Kidman told Yahoo Lifestyle that the warnings serve as a sober reminder to stay vigilant even on vacation. He recommended ensuring travel insurance covers stolen phones, keeping policy details separate from the phone, and sharing information with family or friends.

The Smartraveller agency also issued a high alert for visitors to Indonesia, warning of theft, robbery, pickpocketing, and snatching incidents that can sometimes involve violence. They advised extra caution around motorbike thieves when walking on streets, in upscale malls, crowded public transport, traffic lights, inside stationary vehicles, bars, nightclubs, and when entering or leaving accommodations including Bali villas. Tourists are urged to keep bags and valuables out of sight, walk on sidewalks away from roads, and carry bags on the side opposite the street to reduce risk.