GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – A German national was swept approximately 600 meters by strong currents while attempting to surf at Cucukan Beach in Blahbatuh District, Gianyar, on Thursday (Feb 19) afternoon.
According to Gianyar’s Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), the incident occurred when large waves pushed the tourist toward a wave-breaking structure (groyne) along the shoreline.
Head of Emergency and Logistics at BPBD Gianyar, IGN Dibya Presasta, said the victim was carried a considerable distance before being thrown against the coastal barrier.
“The victim was dragged by the current for around 600 meters before being slammed into the wave-breaking structure. He suffered abrasions on several parts of his body and a cracked tooth,” Dibya Presasta said.
Blahbatuh Police Chief, Commissioner Luh Putu Sri Sumartini, confirmed that the tourist was successfully rescued from the water.
“Based on the information we received, the foreign national was immediately taken by his guide to his private accommodation in the Kuta area,” she explained.
Separately, a member of Gianyar’s lifeguard unit (Balawista), Wayan Join Hermanto, highlighted concerns over the increasing number of uncertified surfing guides operating in the area.
“Many people from outside the region are now working as surfing guides, but few hold official training certificates. They appear to take risks by teaching guests without fully understanding the characteristics of the location. In fact, Cucukan Beach is not intended for surfing activities,” he stated.
Authorities have urged visitors to carefully select certified surf instructors and to comply with beach warning signs to reduce the risk of similar incidents.
Cucukan Beach is known for strong currents and is not widely recognized as a designated surfing spot, making awareness of local conditions particularly important for foreign visitors unfamiliar with the area.