DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Indonesian authorities have uncovered an international drug trafficking case after arresting a foreign national carrying kilograms of cocaine at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.
The suspect, identified as YK (24), a citizen of Kazakhstan, was detained on Friday (April 10, 2026) following a joint operation by Bali Police’s Narcotics Directorate and Ngurah Rai Customs officers.
Officials reported that the suspect was found in possession of approximately 2.8 kilograms of cocaine (2.5 kilograms net weight), with an estimated value of IDR 17.8 billion.
According to Bali Police Narcotics Director, Senior Commissioner Radiant, the arrest began after officers noticed suspicious behavior from the suspect at the international arrivals terminal. YK had just arrived on a flight route from Istanbul, Turkey to Bali.
“During an X-ray scan of the suspect’s green suitcase, officers discovered a concealed package hidden in the back panel,” Radiant said on Tuesday (April 14).
Further inspection revealed eight plastic-wrapped packages containing cocaine, concealed inside an aluminum foil layer within the suitcase structure. The total weight was recorded at 2,843.50 grams gross, or 2,544.10 grams net.
During questioning, the suspect admitted this was his first time traveling to Bali. He stated that he had been contacted by an unknown individual via Telegram on February 27, 2026, followed by further communication from a person identified as “Ig” on March 25.
The suspect was reportedly offered USD 1,000 along with round-trip airfare and accommodation in exchange for transporting a suitcase to Bali.
On April 9, YK was instructed to collect the suitcase from a supermarket near Warsaw Airport in Poland. He was given USD 200 in advance and provided with flight tickets and accommodation in the Canggu area.
“Upon arrival in Bali, the suspect was supposed to be contacted by another individual to hand over the suitcase, but he was apprehended before any meeting took place,” Radiant explained.
Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify the wider network involved in the case. The operation reflects continued coordination between law enforcement and customs authorities to prevent drug trafficking through Bali’s main international gateway.
Officials also noted a rising trend in drug-related cases in Bali, prompting increased enforcement and inter-agency cooperation.