JAKARTA, April 15 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has launched a special patrol in Bali to strengthen oversight of foreign nationals and enhance security in one of the country's top tourism destinations, authorities said on Wednesday.

"The establishment of this immigration patrol task force is a concrete step to safeguard stability and security in Bali as one of Indonesia's leading tourist destinations," Director General of Immigration Hendarsam Marantoko said in a statement.

Data from the immigration office showed that enforcement efforts in Bali have intensified in recent months. Between Jan. 1 and April 12, authorities carried out 165 deportations and 62 detentions under administrative immigration measures.

Marantoko said operations will be further expanded through routine patrols and nationwide enforcement efforts to strengthen public trust.

In addition to the task force, the government has introduced a community-based initiative aimed at enhancing early detection at the village level. He noted that the combination of field patrols and grassroots monitoring would form a more comprehensive oversight mechanism.

"Bali must remain a welcoming destination for quality tourists, while staying firm against any violations of laws and regulations," Marantoko said.

This year saw a surge in violent crimes involving foreign nationals, including sexual assaults, kidnappings and violent stabbings in areas like Canggu, Seminyak and North Kuta. ■