ExplorerGirls

If you're thinking of heading on a holiday to Bali to catch some waves, now might not be the best time.  In a report just sent out by the Travel Mole there are warnings issued due to the expected execution of the three Bali bombers.

Exercise caution or consider staying away from crowded places if you're already visiting during this time.  Bali is a huge hotspot for many Australians and other nationalities when it comes to epic surf and good times.

 

Security tight in Bali

DENPASAR – 30 October 2008 -Security was tight on the Indonesian island of Bali today ahead of the expected execution of the three Bali bombers in neighbouring Java.

Army movements of trucks and soldiers were taking place at key sites.

Small teams of armed soldiers were seen in close proximity to resort hotels on the island.

News sources reported that In Jakarta there is fear of civil disorder by hard-line supporters of the men who murdered 202 people, including 88 Australians, in Bali in 2002.

Yesterday, text messages circulated around Jakarta warning of terrorist attacks on shopping malls and places where Westerners gather. Police dismissed the messages as hoaxes, but they reflect concern being generated by the bombers and their followers.

The three men could be shot any time from Saturday, with informed sources saying that was the most likely day.

Police sources said the plan, which is still being finalised, was for the bombers to be executed by firing squad at three different sites.

 

On another note

Despite travel warnings from Australia....

Bali governor Made Mangku Pastika said he was unconcerned by the latest warnings. “I think Australians understand conditions in Bali,” he said.

“We and our defence forces will do our best to safeguard Bali.”

Bali Tourism Board chairman Ngurah Wijaya said Australians tended to ignore their government’s advisory against traveling to Bali.

“The proof lies in the fact that the number of Australian tourists this year is still high," he said.

Official figures from the Bali Immigration Office show that in the year to October 25, the number of Australian visitors to Bali in 2008 was 226,779 – a 55.8% increase on 2007 figures for a similar period.

Airline capacity between Australia and Bali continues to grow. Jetstar launched services from Perth to Denpasar this week and Virgin's Pacific Blue will make its Bali debut later in he year.

 

 

www.ExplorerGirls.com / Full Report by Travel Mole