BULELENG, DEWATA.NEWS – Five Bangladeshi nationals were allegedly held captive at a guesthouse in Pemuteran Village, Buleleng Regency, after being promised employment in Australia by a man identified as N, also known as Babu.
The case was confirmed by Buleleng Police spokesperson Iptu Yohana Rosalin Diaz, with authorization from Buleleng Police Chief AKBP Ruzi Gusman.
According to police, the incident began with an overseas job offer made to the victims. The suspect allegedly promised them work opportunities in Australia, prompting the group to travel to Bali.
“The victim and four colleagues were promised jobs in Australia by the reported individual. On January 19, 2026, they arrived in Bali and were later taken to the Pemuteran area. The victims were then confined, tied with ropes, and restrained with tape,” Yohana said on Sunday (Feb 22).
The five victims were identified by their initials as MAHJR (24), MD (37), RMAK (38), MSM (33), and MSU (41).
Police stated that the victims were allegedly locked inside a room, bound with rope, taped, and threatened with a knife by the suspect.
On Monday (Feb 16) at approximately 3:00 p.m. local time (WITA), MAHJR attempted to escape with MSU. However, their attempt was discovered, and both were reportedly recaptured by the suspect.
Fearing for his life, one of the victims later attempted to escape again and successfully reached a nearby military training facility (Dodiklatpur) to seek protection.
“The victim who managed to escape reported the incident to Dodiklatpur personnel, who then coordinated with the Gerokgak Police Sector and forwarded the case to Buleleng Police,” Yohana explained.
Police are currently conducting further investigation into the alleged unlawful confinement and possible related offenses. Authorities stated that the case remains under active investigation and will proceed in accordance with applicable legal procedures.
“This case is still under further investigation by Buleleng Police. More details will be provided during an official press release,” Yohana added.