Article & News

Bali Police Crack Down on the Alleged Misuse of Subsidised Fuel

DENPASAR, BALI—Authorities in Bali are taking action against the alleged misuse of subsidised fuel following reports of shortages and long queues at several petrol stations across the island in mid-October 2026.

According to a report by Bali Post, Bali Regional Police (Polda Bali) have taken action against 21 individuals in connection with 18 cases involving the suspected misuse of subsidised fuel. Approximately 753 litres of fuel were reportedly seized as evidence.

The alleged offences include stockpiling fuel and reselling subsidised supplies at prices significantly above official rates. These enforcement measures are intended to safeguard the distribution system and ensure that subsidised fuel reaches those who are legally entitled to receive it.

On 17 October 2026, Bali Regional Police reaffirmed their commitment to working alongside the Bali Provincial Government and Pertamina, Indonesia's state-owned energy company, to monitor fuel distribution and prevent further misuse.

The authorities have also urged the public to report suspected fuel stockpiling, irregular distribution and resale at excessive prices.

What Does This Mean for International Visitors to Bali?

For international visitors, these developments underline the importance of staying informed about local transport conditions when travelling around Bali.

Fuel availability and queues at individual petrol stations may affect journey times, particularly during periods of increased demand or temporary supply disruption. However, the reported enforcement cases do not necessarily indicate that fuel shortages are affecting every part of the island.

Visitors planning airport transfers, sightseeing excursions, business meetings, weddings or other scheduled activities are advised to allow sufficient time for their journeys and remain in contact with their transport providers.

Practical Travel Advice

1. Arrange Transport with a Reliable Local Operator
Booking airport transfers and daily transport in advance can help visitors organise their journeys with greater confidence. An experienced local transport provider can offer guidance on pick-up arrangements, estimated journey times and alternative routes where necessary.

2. Allow Extra Time for Important Journeys
Traffic congestion is a familiar consideration when travelling around Bali. Should fuel queues or other local disruptions affect your route, additional time may be needed to reach the airport, hotel, conference venue or tourist attraction. Allowing a reasonable time buffer can help reduce unnecessary stress.

3. Confirm Your Travel Arrangements in Advance
Visitors undertaking full-day excursions, transfers between destinations or journeys linked to fixed appointments should reconfirm their arrangements with their driver or tour operator, particularly when local disruptions have been reported.

4. Observe Local Laws and Regulations
Visitors and transport users should comply with Indonesian laws and avoid involvement in unauthorised fuel purchasing, stockpiling or resale. Use authorised petrol stations and legitimate transport services, and follow guidance issued by the relevant authorities.

5. Check the Latest Information from Reliable Sources
Fuel availability may vary between locations and change over time. Travellers are encouraged to obtain the latest information from the relevant authorities, Pertamina or their local transport provider rather than assuming that conditions are the same across the island.

Reliable Transport for a More Comfortable Stay in Bali

Bali continues to attract international visitors for leisure holidays, business events, weddings and incentive programmes. Planning transport arrangements in advance can help make travel more convenient, particularly when moving between airports, hotels, conference venues and tourist attractions.

Melali Bali Transport provides transport services for individual travellers, families and groups visiting Bali. Depending on their requirements, guests can arrange airport transfers, private vehicles with drivers, sightseeing trips and transport for corporate functions and special events.

By confirming their itineraries in advance and keeping up to date with local travel conditions, visitors can manage their schedules more effectively and enjoy a smoother journey around the island.

Planning Your Journey Around Bali?

Whether you are visiting Bali for a holiday, business meeting, conference or special occasion, Melali Bali Transport can assist with your transport arrangements.

Contact Melali Bali Transport to discuss your itinerary and arrange transport to suit your travel requirements.

Travel information notice: This article is based on a report published by Bali Post concerning police enforcement actions announced on 17 October 2026.

(Melali Media Team)