Russian Nationals Damage Villa in Canggu, Victims Seek Protection from Bali Police Chief

MANGUPURA, NusaBali.com - An unpleasant incident occurred at a villa located on Jalan Batu Bolong, Canggu, North Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali.

A Russian national identified as AS, who was a tourist, along with two female friends, rented a villa in the area on April 18-22, 2024. However, what was supposed to be an enjoyable visit turned into a nightmare for the villa owner and the surrounding community.

The villa rented by AS and his friends was left in a state of disarray. Various furnishings, including chairs, televisions, dispensers, and benches, were left damaged and neglected. The case was immediately reported to the Badung Police on Tuesday (4/23/2024).

"They also left behind unpaid rental bills. The total loss amounted to hundreds of millions of rupiah," said Esther Hariandja, the legal representative of the villa owner in Canggu, on Tuesday (4/30/2024).

The misconduct of AS didn't stop there. They also instructed the villa caretaker to clean up the human waste they left behind, even recording it. "This behavior not only financially harmed the villa owner but also inflicted mental distress upon them," said Esther.

During their stay at the villa in Batu Bolong, AS was also allegedly involved in the rape of a Belarusian woman on Friday (4/19/2024). This tragic event adds to the list of inappropriate actions carried out by AS.

The Joint Team of the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Badung Police and the Mengwi Police Station arrested AS in Nusa Dua on Sunday (4/28/2024). This Russian man has also been detained. However, AS's two female friends fled and their whereabouts are still unknown. This situation has caused anxiety and tension for the villa owner, caretaker, and other witnesses.

Esther Hariandja, the legal representative of the villa owner who became the victim of the vandalism, expressed deep concerns regarding the safety and justice for her clients. Therefore, she has submitted a letter requesting legal protection to the Bali Police Chief and the Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of Bali, as well as the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). "This step is taken to prevent threats and intimidation against her clients in the future," said Esther.

In the Russian expatriate community residing on the island of Bali, Esther mentioned that AS is known as someone who frequently causes trouble and behaves rudely. His presence in Bali not only brings negative impacts to the surrounding environment but also raises discomfort and concerns among the local community.

With the hope that the authorities will follow up on this case seriously, Esther Hariandja appeals for decisive legal action to uphold justice and ensure the safety of the victims.