BULELENG, DEWATA.NEWS – Twelve people were bitten by a dog suspected of carrying rabies near Buleleng Market in Singaraja, North Bali, on Sunday (March 8), according to local authorities.
The incident occurred in the busy market area where several residents were shopping when the stray dog became aggressive and attacked people nearby.
Kendran Village Head Made Sumardika said the initial report was received from the neighborhood head of Delod Peken after local pecalang (traditional security officers) reported a stray dog disturbing residents near the market.
The dog was first spotted by a pecalang member working as a parking attendant near Puri Kanginan.
According to witnesses, the animal later ran toward the Kampung Singaraja area and near a local mosque while showing aggressive behavior.
During the incident, the dog bit several people, including children who were present at the location.
Residents and pecalang officers eventually managed to subdue the animal.
“Most of the victims were residents who were shopping at Buleleng Market. They were immediately taken to Buleleng Regional Hospital for medical treatment,” Sumardika said.
Authorities reported that victims came from four different neighborhoods in the area.
Three victims were residents of Kampung Singaraja, one from Liligundi, five from Paket Agung, and three from Kendran, bringing the total number of victims to 12 people.
Eleven victims have received rabies vaccinations at Buleleng Regional Hospital.
One victim from Paket Agung is still receiving medical treatment after suffering a fracture in the left arm and is scheduled to undergo surgery as a result of the incident.
Local authorities have coordinated with veterinary officers and community officials following the incident.
The Kendran village administration is also considering plans to eliminate stray dogs roaming in the area to prevent similar incidents.
“We are still waiting for approval from the relevant agency regarding the elimination plan. It is estimated that around 20 stray dogs frequently roam in the area, especially at night,” Sumardika explained.
Meanwhile, Head of the Buleleng Agriculture, Food Security, and Fisheries Office, Gede Melandrat, said veterinarians from the Buleleng Animal Health Center have taken brain samples from the suspected rabies-transmitting animal for laboratory testing.
“Based on the animal’s behavior, the signs are consistent with rabies, but confirmation will depend on the laboratory test results,” he said.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation while urging residents to secure their pets and remain cautious of stray animals in the area.