GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – The Russian Embassy in Indonesia has responded to a recent drug laboratory case in Bali involving Russian nationals, emphasizing its commitment to supporting law enforcement and anti-narcotics efforts.
Second Secretary of the Russian Embassy, Olesya Netesova, described the case as deeply concerning but stressed that it does not justify the actions of those involved.
“We are committed to the law, both Indonesian and Russian, in combating drugs and maintaining good relations between the two countries,” Netesova said during a press conference on drug evidence destruction in Jakarta on Tuesday (March 17).
She also expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s law enforcement efforts, particularly in uncovering what authorities described as one of the largest mephedrone laboratory cases in the country.
According to officials, approximately 7.3 kilograms of narcotics were seized during the operation, marking the largest confiscation related to a mephedrone clandestine laboratory in Indonesia.
Netesova highlighted that both Russia and Indonesia share a strong stance against наркотics, prioritizing public safety and community well-being.
“There is no place or tolerance for crimes of this scale. We hope to continue moving in the same direction and work together toward a drug-free world,” she added.
The case was previously uncovered by Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN), which dismantled a drug syndicate operating a clandestine laboratory at a villa in Pering Village, Blahbatuh District, Gianyar Regency.
BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto said the operation was the result of a joint effort involving BNN, immigration authorities, customs officials, and Bali Police.
“This success is the result of an intensive joint operation conducted since January 2026, which led to the discovery of a clandestine laboratory operating in Gianyar and the arrest of two Russian nationals,” he said.
Authorities identified the suspects as NT (female), also known as KS, and ST (male), both Russian citizens.
They are suspected of playing key roles in the production and distribution of mephedrone, a synthetic party drug considered highly dangerous.
The case underscores ongoing international cooperation in tackling drug-related crimes in Bali, a major global tourism destination.