The Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has uncovered a network of drug traffickers in Bali, allegedly involving citizens of Russia and Ukraine.
The investigation began after the arrest of a Russian citizen, I.E., on January 26, 2025, in Canggu. During a search of his villa, officers seized 986 grams of marijuana and 483 grams of hashish hidden in the wardrobe and kitchen.
According to the detainee, the goods were supplied by a compatriot named R., who is now wanted. BNN is already working with immigration services to block the suspect's exit routes from the country. The investigation found that the participants communicated through Telegram.
Investigators have not specified how many people are actually involved in the scheme: only two participants have been officially confirmed, but BNN does not rule out new suspects. 'We are committed to protecting Bali from illegal drug trafficking and maintaining the island's reputation as a safe destination,' said the head of BNN in Bali, Brigadier General Rudy Ahmad Sudrajat.
In 2024, BNN and the police across Indonesia initiated about 40,000 cases and arrested over 55,000 suspects. Besides raids, the agency promotes the preventive program 'Desa Bersinar' ('Drug-Free Village'), which builds 'immunity' to drugs through local communities and reduces demand.
There is no definitive solution yet: Thailand, which legalized marijuana, is already rolling back liberalization amid increased consumption; other countries focus on moderate decriminalization, social welfare, and honest information. Indonesia combines strict enforcement with 'soft power' education, aiming to tackle the problem comprehensively and prevent the drug trade from undermining its tourism industry.
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