BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Street crime has again raised concerns in Seminyak, after an Indian tourist couple became victims of a necklace snatching incident on Jalan Kunti I, Kuta, Badung, on Thursday night (December 18, 2025) at around 10:30 p.m. WITA.
The suspects, identified as Komang Riski (17) and I Kadek Riko (20), were arrested shortly after the incident by officers from the Kuta Police Criminal Investigation Unit.
According to Denpasar Police spokesperson Kompol I Ketut Sukadi, speaking on behalf of the Denpasar Police Chief, the incident occurred after the victim, Mahesh Thanda Rathlavath (31), and his wife had finished dinner at a restaurant in the area.
“While the victim was riding a motorcycle, the suspects suddenly approached from the right side on another motorcycle,” Sukadi said on Friday (December 19, 2025).
“They forcefully pulled the gold necklace and pendant worn by the victim’s wife and immediately fled the scene,” he added.
The stolen jewelry reportedly weighed around 20 grams, with total losses estimated at IDR 37 million.
Police investigations revealed that the suspects had prepared the crime in advance. Officers seized a Honda PCX motorcycle used in the snatching, which was fitted with fake license plates to avoid identification.
“From the crime scene investigation and CCTV review, officers obtained information that the suspects were still in the vicinity. They were arrested without delay,” Sukadi explained.
During questioning, both suspects admitted to the crime. One of them was confirmed to be underage. The suspects told police they committed the snatching due to financial difficulties.
“Their motive was to meet daily living needs,” Sukadi said.
In addition to the motorcycle and fake plates, police also confiscated jackets and two bags believed to be linked to the crime. The suspects are currently being held at Kuta Police Station and have been charged under Article 363 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, which carries a potential prison sentence.
Authorities continue to urge residents and visitors to remain alert, particularly in busy tourist areas at night.