A recent video circulating online shows a dramatic incident in Bali involving a Russian tourist who was reportedly choked by local men. The footage, filmed during a night out in Uluwatu, depicts a shirtless tourist being restrained on the ground while being choked.

Confrontation Details and Intervention

The Physical Altercation

The video clearly shows Balinese fighter and gym owner, Belda Brig Sando, holding the tourist in a headlock. During the restraint, the tourist turned red and appeared to lose consciousness momentarily.

Another individual present in the clip was heard attempting to de-escalate the situation, stating, “he’s out, he’s out.” After a significant period in the headlock, Sando eventually released the man, who remained still on the ground.

Accusations and Warnings Issued

Following the restraint, Sando was recorded verbally confronting the tourist. He stated, “Bali is safe. Bali people are nice. You can do whatever you want in Bali but respect locals.”

Sando continued his admonishment, questioning the tourist’s origin: “Are you from Russia? many Russian people doing s**t here, don’t be one of them.” He concluded with a stern warning: “Bali is nice, but if you’re not nice, we can smash you here. Shut up and go home.” The tourist responded briefly, saying, “I got it, I got it.”

Gym Owner Addresses the Incident

Justification for Intervention

Belda Brig Sando, who is also the founder of Zando Fight Club, later spoke out about the event online. He condemned foreigners who “come here and act without respect.”

Sando detailed the tourist's alleged behavior: “This guy was drunk – touching people, walking in the middle of the road, stopping strangers, and even slapping heads like it’s normal.” He clarified that he intervened only after the tourist touched one of his friends, leading to the physical altercation.

Apology and Call for Mutual Respect

While defending his action as a response to provocation, Sando offered a partial apology: “What I did may not have been right, and for that I apologise. I’m human – sometimes emotions take over. But I didn’t start it. He crossed the line first.”

He emphasized the importance of maintaining Bali’s positive atmosphere. Sando stressed that the island’s residents are kind and respectful, urging visitors to reciprocate that attitude to “keep Bali the way it should be – good people, good energy.”

Context of Tourist Misconduct in Bali

This incident occurs as Bali faces increasing scrutiny regarding unruly tourist behavior, particularly in its nightlife areas.

Earlier this year, another incident involved a group of tourists filmed brawling outside a Kuta supermarket, requiring local intervention amidst screaming women.

Bali’s Efforts to Regulate Visitor Conduct

In 2025, Bali initiated a campaign to educate tourists on appropriate conduct. Governor Wayan Koster introduced new guidelines to address concerns about misbehaving visitors.

These guidelines focus on respecting local customs, dressing modestly at religious sites, and protecting the environment. The measures also aim to reduce visitor violence and ensure tourism aligns with local laws. Koster stated the goal is to ensure “Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable and in harmony with our local values.”