BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Two traffic police officers in Badung are under internal investigation after a viral video alleged they attempted to solicit money from a foreign tourist during a traffic stop in North Kuta.
The officers, identified by initials NA and INGA, both holding the rank of Aiptu, were filmed at the Semer intersection in Kerobokan in March 2026. The footage, recorded using a hidden camera by a foreign national who is reportedly a content creator, shows the officers mentioning fines without issuing an official ticket on the spot.
Badung Police Chief AKBP Joseph Edward Purba issued a public apology on Thursday (April 30), acknowledging the incident and its impact on public trust.
“As the head of Badung Police, I would like to apologize to the public regarding this viral incident. It has drawn significant attention as it involves two of our officers,” he said.
According to police, the incident began when officers observed a traffic violation involving two individuals—one foreign national and one Indonesian—who were riding a motorcycle without helmets and reportedly ran a red light.
The officers stopped the individuals and explained the violations, including the applicable fines.
“Our officers informed the violators that running a red light carries a fine of IDR 500,000 and not wearing a helmet is subject to a fine of IDR 250,000, as stated in the video,” Purba explained.
Police stated that no money was received by the officers during the incident. However, an internal investigation has been launched by the Professional and Security Division (Propam), specifically the Internal Affairs unit (Paminal), to fully examine the case.
Purba noted that the officers may have violated procedure by not issuing a formal ticket at the scene, even though the fines mentioned align with Indonesia’s Traffic Law No. 22 of 2009.
“If violations are found, firm and proportional action will be taken in accordance with applicable regulations,” he said.
Authorities are also reviewing the circulation of the video and the circumstances under which it was recorded.
“We are still examining whether there were any violations related to the distribution of the video. Based on our findings so far, the foreign national involved is a content creator,” Purba added.
The police chief also stated that the possibility of deliberate recording to provoke the officers is being considered, although further investigation is required.
The case remains under review as part of ongoing efforts to evaluate public service conduct and ensure compliance with official procedures.