Two Foreign Nationals Suspected of Stealing USD 800 from Passenger on Batik Air Flight to Bali

BALI – Two foreign nationals have been arrested by airport police in connection with an alleged theft involving USD 800 from a passenger aboard a Batik Air flight from Jakarta to Denpasar, Bali, in November 2026.

The suspects, identified by their initials LDJ and LZ from Tiongkok are accused of taking cash from a blue backpack belonging to another passenger. The bag was reportedly stored in the overhead compartment inside the aircraft during the flight.

The incident occurred aboard Batik Air flight ID 6508, which operated on the Jakarta–Denpasar route.

Bali Airport Police Chief Made Hendra Agustina confirmed that the incident was the fourth theft case handled as part of the series of criminal cases uncovered by airport police.

According to Made Hendra Agustina, the suspects allegedly took the money from the passenger's backpack while it was placed in the aircraft's overhead storage compartment.

Police subsequently secured USD 800 in cash as evidence in the investigation.

The two foreign nationals were taken into custody for further legal proceedings. Investigators are continuing to handle the case in accordance with Indonesian law.

Both suspects have been charged under Article 477 Paragraph (1) in conjunction with Article 20 of Law No. 1 of 2023 concerning Indonesia's Criminal Code (KUHP).

The case serves as a reminder for passengers travelling to Bali and other destinations to remain vigilant about their personal belongings while on board aircraft.

Passengers are advised to keep cash, passports, electronic devices, and other valuable items within their sight or in a secure location, rather than leaving them unattended in overhead compartments.

Although aircraft cabins are generally considered secure environments, incidents involving alleged theft from passengers' luggage highlight the importance of maintaining awareness throughout a journey.

For travellers flying from Jakarta to Bali, the incident also underscores the importance of reporting suspicious activity or missing belongings immediately to cabin crew and airport authorities.

Airport police continue to handle the case as part of their efforts to maintain security and prevent criminal activity in Indonesia's aviation sector.