Bali Governor Wayan Koster condemns mob killing of suspected chicken thief

On 1 August 2026, during the sacred Balinese celebration of Tumpek Krulut, a man from Sidatapa, Buleleng was beaten to death by a mob in the village of Baturiti, Tabanan, after being accused of stealing fighting chickens. Governor Wayan Koster visited a coffee shop in Tabanan the following day, highlighted the tragedy and urged the community to reflect, stating, “Ini mengingatkan kita, jika ada perselisihan atau ketidakcocokan, jangan sampai berujung pembunuhan dengan cara yang tidak beradab seperti di Baturiti.” He emphasized that disputes should not lead to barbaric killings and called for harmony on a day traditionally associated with love and happiness. The provincial government also provided free food and drinks at 15 local UMKM outlets across Bali as a gesture of solidarity.