The island of Gods or also known as the Paradise Island offered paradise to those who seeks for it. “Everyday is Sunday in Bali” that’s what people said as the island is the front gate for Indonesia tourism as well as for the Indonesia’s nation branding itself.
People know Bali as a paradise, until a nightmare in Oct 12, 2002. That night, people just enjoy their night around Legian – Kuta just like any other night. In the midst of the busy night of Legian Street, an explosion happened from Paddy’s Irish Bar.
As people ran out in panic after the explosion in the bar, the second and bigger explosion happened through L300 van full of explosive materials that was parked in front of Sari Club instantly killing dozens of people. Minutes later, the third bomb exploded near the US Consulate in Denpasar City. The massive second van bomb eviscerated a large section of a commercial and residential neighbourhood in Kuta.
The terror was masterminded by militant terrorist network JI (Jemaah Islamiyah) and in that one-night nightmare, there were 202 people killed and 209 others injured. In Nov 5, 2002, the first suspect was successfully captured. It was Amrozi also known as the smiling bomber as he showed lack of remorse after his evil action. Later on, Imam Samudra and Mukhlas also arrested. In 2008, all those 3 are shot dead by firing squad.
After 20 years, the attack was claimed as the deadliest act of terrorism in the history of Indonesia. Bali keep recovering even after another suicide bombing in December 2005.
Putu Radar Bahurekso
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