SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT

Holiday season security tightened in Bali

Indonesian authorities say a terror attack around the Christmas-New Year period is "possible" and they are taking steps to boost security.

Indonesian police at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport
Bali police file image. Source: EPA

2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Skip to article content

Indonesian authorities warn a terror attack over the Christmas-New Year period is "possible", with police in Bali tightening security, particularly at Denpasar airport.

Indonesia's intelligence and counter-terror chiefs, communications minister, and heads of police, military and religious groups met for a briefing in Jakarta on Monday.

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan told reporters a terror attack during the Christmas-New Year period was "possible".

"That's why we're alert in all airports, sea and air, and possibly other places too," he said.

National Police spokesman Agus Rianto said the annual Operasi Lilin (Operation Candle) for the Christmas and New Year period was being boosted this year.

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

There had been no specific threat to Bali, where many Australians would be spending their holidays, he said.

Bali provincial police have increased security however, particularly at the airport.

A British man was reportedly removed from a Denpasar to Doha flight on Sunday night because a suspicious object - later found to be a "bomb-like toy" - was in his carry-on bag.

Monday's meeting came as extra security was provided to six senior police officials who were targeted specifically in threats, apparently from IS.

But intelligence chief Sutiyoso played down the likelihood of the attacks happening.

"It won't happen," he said.

"It's not their method. They would strike without talking."

Indonesia Police Watch, a non-government body that monitors police performance, says the six police were singled out because they were "considered the most responsible for arresting radical groups and those indicated as ISIS members in Indonesia".


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world