Police on alert, as bomb tributes near

Police are securing Bali’s coastline, entry points and tourist sites in advance of the anniversaries of the isle’s terror attacks, Bali’s top cop says.

Security has been increased at the island’s main entry points, including Ngurah Rai International Airport, Gilimanuk Seaport and Padangbai Seaport. Bali Police chief Insp. Gen. Hadiatmoko said marine police officers have swept the island’scoastline with patrol boats.

Heightened security measures include several new patrol boats that have a top speed of 15 knots and are equipped with the latest technology, he said.

“Bali is a small island surrounded by the sea, so we should strictly secure the entire coastline since it could be used as an entry point for terrorists,” Hadiatmoko said.

Security measures should be increased in areas with large beachfront hotels, such as Kuta and Nusa Dua, to prevent terrorist attacks, the chief said.

The police are on guard against any attempts to smuggle weapons and explosives to the island, Hadiatmoko said, adding that hotel security officers should also remain vigilant.

“Bali should be free of terrorists. The island’s future is at stake,” Hadiatmoko said.

On the Bali bombing commemoration day, Oct. 12, the police will tighten security in tourist hubs such as Kuta, Nusa Dua and Jimbaran.

Participants at commemoration events should feel safe due heightened security, Hadiatmoko said.

Commemoration ceremonies will take place in the Australian Consulate General, the Monument of the Balinese People’s Struggle in Denpasar and the Ground Zero monument in Kuta.

Families of the bombing victims from Bali and Australia usually join commemoration events.

Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association Bali chapter secretary Perry Markus called on Bali’s hotel operators to be wary of possible terrorist attacks.

He said hotels should apply safety measures consistently, instead of increasing security ahead of important events and relaxing vigilance on ordinary days.

“Security should be a priority.”

Bali Tourism Board chairman Ngurah Wijaya agreed, and said that hotels should apply adhere to standard security operating procedures to prevent terrorist attacks.

Terrorists launched two bomb attacks in Bali, on Oct. 12, 2002 and on Oct. 1, 2005.

Wijaya said heightened security would not discourage foreign tourists from visiting Bali, adding that Australian tourists have continued to arrive despite the travel advisory issued by government in Canberra.

“I’m sure that Australians will always come to Bali in spite of travel advisories. They are been familiar with the island’s situation. Bali is like their second home.”