DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Authorities in Bali have detailed the sequence of events behind the largest cocaine seizure recorded on the island in 2026, following the arrest of a foreign national at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.
The suspect, identified as YK (24), a citizen of Kazakhstan, was previously detained after being found carrying more than 2.5 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated value of IDR 17.8 billion.
According to Bali Police Narcotics Director Senior Commissioner Radiant, the arrest took place on Friday (April 10, 2026) at around 20:00 WITA, shortly after the suspect arrived on a flight from Istanbul, Turkey.
“Officers became suspicious of the suspect’s behavior while he was carrying a green suitcase at the international arrivals terminal,” Radiant said during a press briefing on Tuesday (April 14).
A subsequent X-ray scan of the suitcase revealed a concealed compartment. Further inspection uncovered eight plastic packages wrapped in aluminum foil, hidden within the inner back panel of the luggage.
Laboratory testing later confirmed the substance as cocaine, classified as a Category I narcotic, weighing 2,843.50 grams gross or 2,544.10 grams net.
Investigators said the suspect admitted to acting as a courier after being recruited by an individual identified as “Igor,” whom he met in Poland. Communication between the two reportedly began via Telegram on February 27, 2026.
On April 9, YK was instructed to collect the suitcase at a supermarket near Warsaw Airport. He was promised a payment of USD 1,000 (approximately IDR 16 million), along with flight tickets and accommodation, to deliver the suitcase to Bali.
“The suspect stated this was his first time visiting Bali. He was instructed to bring the suitcase and expected to be contacted by another party upon arrival,” Radiant explained.
Authorities confirmed that the handover never took place, as the suspect was intercepted before meeting any local contact.
In addition to the narcotics, officers seized a green suitcase, boarding pass, and two mobile phones as evidence.
Police estimate that the seizure prevented potential distribution affecting more than 12,000 individuals.
YK is currently being charged under Articles 609 and 610 of Indonesia’s Criminal Code, carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment or up to 20 years in prison.
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities coordinating internationally to identify and dismantle the wider network behind the trafficking attempt.