GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Indonesian authorities have dismantled an illegal drug laboratory producing the synthetic narcotic Mephedrone inside a luxury villa in Gianyar, Bali, following a multi-agency investigation targeting an international drug network.
The operation was carried out on Thursday (March 5) and involved coordination between the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Customs, Immigration, and Bali Regional Police. The investigation had been underway since January 2026.
The announcement was made during a press briefing held at Villa De Bale Mercapada on Jalan Padat Karya Gang Bunga Padi in Blahbatuh District on Saturday (March 7).
Head of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto, accompanied by Deputy for Eradication Brigadier General Roy Hardi Siahaan, said the clandestine laboratory was operated by an international network originating from Russia.
According to investigators, the suspects used multiple rented villas in Bali to conceal their activities. Raw materials used to produce the drug were mostly sourced from China, ordered through online marketplaces, and shipped to different addresses to avoid detection.
Authorities said the suspects typically carried out production late at night between 23:00 and 04:00 WITA to reduce the risk of attracting attention from nearby residents. Investigators also found that the individuals used false identities and passports to rent properties in Bali.
During the raid at Villa Lavana De’Bale Marcapada in Blahbatuh, officers arrested two Russian nationals identified by the initials NT, also known as KK, and ST.
Another suspect identified as KS is currently still at large.
Authorities seized a significant amount of evidence during the operation, including 7.8 kilograms of finished Mephedrone in both solid and liquid forms. Officers also confiscated precursor materials consisting of 2.6 kilograms of solid substances and approximately 219.7 liters of liquid chemicals ready for processing.
Various laboratory equipment was also found at the site, including digital scales, magnetic stirrers, respirator masks, fruit drying machines, and Erlenmeyer flasks.
Mephedrone is classified as a Category I narcotic under Indonesian law and belongs to the synthetic cathinone group. The substance produces strong stimulant and hallucinogenic effects and is often associated with nightlife environments.
“This operation has potentially saved more than 31,576 people from drug abuse. It reflects our commitment to preventive action before these illegal substances circulate widely,” BNN officials stated.
The suspects may face severe penalties under Indonesia’s Narcotics Law No. 35 of 2009 and the latest provisions of the Criminal Code, including possible life imprisonment or the death penalty.
BNN also urged the public to report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods to help prevent drug-related crimes and protect communities from narcotics trafficking.