Monkey tears up woman’s passport in Bali

A Bali tourist was left in utter shock and unsure of what to do when a cheeky monkey did the unthinkable to her passport.

A feisty monkey has torn up a tourist’s passport in Bali leaving the woman aghast and unable to salvage it.

The video of the unfortunate incident was posted on the Instagram page Idiots in Bali.

While it is unknown how the monkey got its hands on the priceless document, the woman in the video did try to tempt the mischievous monkey into returning it, but it refused to relinquish it.

Instead, another monkey joined in the chaotic scene, and can be seen almost lashing the tourist.

The woman attempts to offer the monkey a piece of paper instead. Picture: Instagram / @idiots_inbali

Another monkey tries to get in on the action. Picture: Instagram / idiots_inbali

One social media user joked that at least the woman has video evidence to show to immigration to prove the incident occurred.

Another was less pragmatic and quipped, “Don’t play with a gangster”.

Others were perturbed that the woman had brought her passport to a monkey enclosure.

“Hard lesson,” one bluntly commented.

“Who carries their passport everywhere?” another said.

Another suggested the woman should have traded bananas, instead of attempting to offer the monkey a piece of paper in return for her passport.

@alex.ivanchak

Thieves 😅 #monkey #thief #bali #обезьяна #бали #вор

♬ оригинальный звук - Alex Ivanchak (Rubik)

Data reveals Australians who have had their belongings stolen by monkeys in Bali have claimed almost $17,000 from one insurance company alone in the last five years – with tourists warned to be careful around the cheeky and sometimes violent animals.

The most expensive of those Southern Cross Travel Insurance claims was for $8560 when an Aussie traveller had their bag with hearing aids, phone and money stolen by a monkey at Uluwatu on the popular holiday island.

Australian authorities have warned travellers to be careful, with almost 150 people in NSW seeking treatment after returning from overseas with a bite or scratch this year.

Southern Cross Travel Insurance paid out $10,000 in claims involving monkey bites overseas in the last five years, with one of those claims (worth $2,656) in Bali.

@jammielynn_3

Its fine. I didnt need mg glasses for the rest of my trip. Yes he threw them over the cliff after he was done😂😂 #indo #bali #monkey #uluwatu #glasses #traveltiktok

♬ Use this if you are Connor Hesse or Spencewuah - enox

The boss of the Australian travel insurance provider, Jo McCauley, said some of Bali’s most popular tourist attractions were home to monkeys that possessed a mischievous streak.

“While they may appear charming and endearing, it’s crucial to exercise caution and awareness during your visit to avoid running into a mishap,” she said.

Ms McCauley advised travellers to respect the monkey’s space – and avoid eye contact.

“These monkeys inhabit various temples and natural habitats across the island, and while they may seem accustomed to human presence, they are still wild animals,” she warned.

“Maintain a respectful distance and avoid direct eye contact, as this can be interpreted as a threat.

“Securing your belongings is equally important. Monkeys are known for their curiosity, and they won’t hesitate to snatch food, sunglasses, or anything shiny that catches their eye. Keep your bags, hats, and sunglasses securely fastened to prevent any mishaps.”

Ms McCauley also stressed not to feed the monkeys.

“Feeding them human food can disrupt their natural diet and lead to health problems. Additionally, it can encourage them to approach humans aggressively in search of snacks,” she said.

– with Chantelle Francis