One of Kuta’s most infamous night-life venues has been shut down by Bali police amid claims of unpaid taxes and increasing crime.
Armed police personnel, including Brimob paramilitary officers, slapped a sign on late yesterday ordering the venue’s closure, 7 News reports.
The incident drew a crowd of confused tourists, as authorities milled around one of Bali’s biggest nightclubs.
Police then reportedly re-enacted five crimes that allegedly occurred inside the club, including theft, assault, slander, threats and sexual harassment.
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The club — which describes itself as the “best nightclub in Bali” — boasts 20 DJs per night across four stages, cementing itself as a tourist hotspot.
But Kuta locals — who once supported the establishment — have long complained about rising crime rates as a result.
The Kuta Customary Village head, Wayan Wasista, told 7 News he supported the shut down.
“We support the closure of Sky Garden as it has caused restlessness among Kuta residents. Sky Garden has opened until early morning, causing too much noise until early morning. People living around the area cannot sleep well,” Mr Wayan said.
By law, all clubs in the area are required to close by 2am. And despite having an extended trading time — until 3am — Mr Wasista claims Sky Garden had remained open later.
Those who’d bought tickets for tonight’s trance acts took to social media to find out if the club would re-open tonight. When one commenter stated “Closed down …” in the comments section, the club replied, “Won’t be for long! Stay tuned.”
Lawyer Nyoman Ferri Supriadi, who represents one of the owners, apologised to customers and said it was a temporary shut down and he hoped the club would re-open soon.
