Allegations of the kidnapping of a Ukrainian national in Bali have circulated widely on social media after a video showing the man asking for help appeared online.
The video features a man identified by the initials IK, later confirmed as Ihor Komarav (28), a Ukrainian national. In the footage, he speaks in Russian and asks to be rescued. Visible bruises can be seen around both of his eyes. He also claims that he was kidnapped by a dangerous organisation.
The video quickly gained public attention. Thousands of social media users reacted to the footage and shared concerns over the alleged kidnapping.
Authorities are now examining the video as part of the ongoing investigation. Police have not confirmed where or when the video was recorded.
Police Question Witnesses and Collect Evidence
Bali Police confirmed that they are investigating the alleged kidnapping and have questioned multiple witnesses.
“We have questioned approximately 10 witnesses and secured evidence,” Bali Police spokesperson Kombes Ariasandy said at Bali Police Headquarters on Tuesday (24 February), as reported by CNNIndonesia.
According to Ariasandy, the alleged kidnapping was first reported by the victim’s colleague on Sunday (15 February) at the South Kuta Police Station.
The case is currently being handled jointly by officers from Denpasar Police Station and South Kuta Police Station, with support from the Bali Police.
“We have already gone to the scene. We have taken investigative steps, collected evidence, and so on. In essence, our team is already working on it, and hopefully, we can solve the case in a relatively short time,” Ariasandy said.
Police have not provided further details about the suspects or possible motives.
@detikcomPolisi Daerah (Polda) Bali buka suara terkait video viral di media sosial yang menarasikan seorang warga negara asal Ukraina berinisial IK mengalami penculikan di Bali. Polisi menyebut terdapat laporan yang masuk terkait hal itu. Sepuluh saksi telah diperiksa dan beberapa alat bukti diamankan. Belum diketahui pasti terkait motif dan siapa pelaku penculikan tersebut. Creator: I Nyoman Adhisthaya Sawitra #ukraina #rusia #detikcom #bali♬ original sound – detik.com
Timeline of Incident and Ongoing Investigation
Police said the report was made after the victim disappeared during an activity with his colleagues.
According to Ariasandy, one of the witnesses stated that he and the victim were walking towards a training location. The witness was walking ahead of the group and later realised that the victim and another colleague were no longer behind him.
Shortly afterwards, one of the colleagues caught up and reported that they had been attacked by unknown individuals. The witness and his colleague then returned to the location where the incident allegedly occurred. However, they were unable to find the victim.
Only the victim’s personal belongings were found at the scene.
“Only some of his belongings were found, including his mobile phone and bag, which were then secured by the victim’s friend and reported to us. (It was reported) at around 11 p.m. that night,” Ariasandy said.
Police are also investigating the viral video showing the victim with injuries and asking his family for ransom.
Authorities suspect the video may have been recorded in Bali, but this has not been confirmed.
In addition, police have not established whether the case is linked to an organised crime group.
“This is still under investigation. We are trying to find valid sources so that we can uncover this case and immediately arrest the perpetrators, including rescuing the victim,” Ariasandy said.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities continue to collect evidence and interview witnesses to determine the circumstances of the alleged kidnapping.
Photo by Kindel Media/Pexels
