Major Organized Crime Groups in Bali: An Overview


Laskar Bali

Established in 2002 as a Hindu defense league, Laskar Bali has been linked to various criminal activities, including extortion, violence, and involvement in the drug trade.

Baladika Bali

A prominent organization in Bali, Baladika Bali has had a long-standing rivalry with Laskar Bali, leading to violent clashes and criminal allegations.

Pemuda Bali Bersatu (PBB)

Another significant group, PBB has been warned by authorities to cease disruptive activities and has pledged to discipline members involved in unlawful actions.

International Drug Syndicates

Bali’s status as a tourist hub has attracted international drug syndicates, including West African, Chinese, European, and Iranian groups, collaborating with local networks to facilitate the production and distribution of illicit substances.

Methamphetamine Production

Methamphetamine, known locally as “shabu,” is the most mass-produced drug by organized crime groups in Indonesia, with Bali being a significant hub for its production and distribution.

Cocaine Trafficking

Bali has become a destination for cocaine, with tourist hotspots being prominent markets, and the drug increasingly sold through social media platforms and transported via post.

Human Trafficking Networks

Bali’s tourism industry has been exploited by human trafficking networks, involving both local and international organized crime groups.

Illegal Gambling Operations

Various organized crime groups in Bali are involved in illegal gambling operations, often linked to other criminal activities such as money laundering.

Extortion and Protection Rackets

Local businesses, especially those in the tourism sector, have been targets of extortion and protection rackets by organized crime groups seeking to control economic activities.

Cybercrime Syndicates

The rise of technology has led to the emergence of cybercrime syndicates operating in Bali, engaging in activities such as online fraud and identity theft.

Environmental Crimes

Some organized crime groups are involved in environmental crimes, including illegal logging and wildlife trafficking, exploiting Bali’s natural resources.

Money Laundering Activities

Bali’s economy has been used by organized crime groups for money laundering, utilizing the island’s financial systems to legitimize illicit funds.

Arms Trafficking

There have been instances of arms trafficking linked to organized crime groups in Bali, contributing to the proliferation of illegal weapons.

Prostitution Rings

Organized crime groups have been implicated in operating prostitution rings in Bali, often involving human trafficking and exploitation.

Smuggling Operations

Bali serves as a transit point for various smuggling operations, including drugs, humans, and contraband goods, facilitated by organized crime networks.

Corruption and Bribery

Some organized crime groups have been known to engage in corruption and bribery to protect their operations and avoid law enforcement actions.

Violent Turf Wars

Rivalries between different organized crime groups have led to violent turf wars in Bali, impacting public safety and security.

Infiltration of Legitimate Businesses

Organized crime groups have infiltrated legitimate businesses in Bali, using them as fronts for illegal activities and money laundering.

Exploitation of Tourism Industry

The tourism industry in Bali has been exploited by organized crime groups for various illegal activities, including drug distribution and human trafficking.

Law Enforcement Challenges

The presence and activities of organized crime groups in Bali pose significant challenges for law enforcement agencies striving to maintain order and safety on the island.


About the author

Shiva Rajaya

Tantrika / Life coach / Activator of new evolutionary codes for the planet and humankind