A group of Japanese tourists has been accused of stealing more than 20 items of clothing from a Bali shop. The incident was recorded by the store’s CCTV and is now under police and immigration investigation.
The shopkeeper, Nyoman Jonathan, said he became suspicious after noticing empty hangers despite no sales transactions.
“About 12 people. I suspected there were hangers there, (previously) I’d never put hangers up. (About 20 items were missing),” Jonathan told SCTV on Tuesday (9 December 2025).
CCTV footage circulating online shows several tourists, believed to be Japanese, entering the clothing store.
The individuals spread out across different corners, browsing items before some left the premises. The missing clothing items were discovered shortly after, prompting the shopkeeper to review the recordings.
Ubud Police Chief Commissioner Putra Antara confirmed that a report had been filed.
“We received a report from the public about a theft at a boarding house in Ubud. It was committed by a foreign tourist. We have taken action,” he said. Police have also coordinated with Immigration officers as part of the ongoing process.
The case gained wider attention after the principal of Otani Junior and Senior High School in Kyoto confirmed that students from the institution were involved in the incident.
In a statement released on Monday (8 December 2025), Principal Fumio Inui expressed regret over the actions of the students.
“First of all, we would like to express our deepest apologies for the inconvenience and concern caused to the affected businesses, the local community, and all local stakeholders,” the statement read.
Inui said the school was treating the matter with seriousness.
“This is a serious act that could affect not only the victims but also Japanese citizens abroad. As a school, we recognise the need to seriously review our student guidance practices,” he stated.
He added that the school would report its findings and response plans after verifying all information.
He also warned against speculation and the spread of unverified material online.
“Uploading real names and photos, as well as slander, can further harm those involved, so we ask that you respond with caution,” he said.
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Incident Widely Discussed on Social Media
A video of men allegedly taking clothing items from the shop has been widely discussed on social media, including by Japanese users.
Mothership reported on Sunday (7 December 2025) that the shop owner claimed to have initially lost 11 items before reviewing CCTV footage. The video shows three men appearing to inspect clothing while discreetly placing garments into a bag.
Many Japanese netizens condemned the alleged theft. Comments described the individuals as “a permanent disgrace to the country.” Others called the incident “a rare case that may be the first of its kind.”
The Ubud Police investigation continues
Officers are gathering statements, verifying footage, and coordinating with Immigration for further administrative measures. No additional details have been released regarding potential sanctions or legal proceedings.
The shop has resumed normal operations while cooperating with the authorities. The stolen items have not yet been recovered. Police have urged the public not to spread unverified claims and to allow the investigation to proceed.
