Gilimanuk harbor security tightened for Obama visit

NEGARA, Bali: Security at Gilimanuk ferry harbor linking Bali and Java has been tightened in preparation for possible terrorist attacks and other security treats during the upcoming visit of US President Barack Obama in June.

Officers from the police counterterrorism unit Densus 88 have been guarding the harbor since early May.

There is speculation that many people were still able to enter Bali without being inspected by police at the entry points.

Gilimanuk is a key gateway to the island, and it is believed the perpetrators of the Bali bombings arrived through this port.

Bali has four official sea and ferry harbors: Gilimanuk in West Bali linking Bali and Java; Padang Bai in East Bali connecting Bali and Lombok Island; Benoa cargo harbor near Denpasar; and Celukan Bawang Sea harbor in Buleleng, North Bali. - JP