BALINESWID.COM, BANGLI – A joint operation involving Indonesia’s National Narcotics Agency (BNN), the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, Customs and Excise, and Bali Police has successfully foiled an international drug smuggling attempt involving two Russian nationals and seized 7.8 kilograms of hashish in Bangli Regency, Bali.

The operation took place in Dusun Kayang, Kayubihi Village, Bangli District, on Friday (June 5), following intelligence provided by Customs and Excise officers at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Authorities received information regarding a suitcase containing narcotics allegedly transported from Thailand by a Russian citizen identified as KK (52), who was suspected of bringing the drugs to Bali.

After arriving at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, KK reportedly continued her journey by rental car to Ketapang Port in East Java before crossing to Bali by ferry at approximately 1:30 a.m. WIB.

Upon arriving at Gilimanuk Port at around 3:00 a.m. WITA, KK was picked up by another Russian national, identified as SK (40). Law enforcement officers then monitored the pair as they traveled toward Bangli Regency.

The situation escalated when officers attempted to apprehend SK after he dropped off KK and the suitcase containing the suspected narcotics. SK allegedly fled the scene in a vehicle, driving at high speed and recklessly through local roads.

During the pursuit, the suspect reportedly struck several local residents before officers were able to intercept and stop the vehicle in Dusun Kayang. SK was subsequently arrested without further incident.

BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto confirmed that officers seized a substantial quantity of narcotics during the operation.

“We have secured narcotics evidence in the form of hashish, a concentrated resin derived from cannabis plants, with a gross weight of 7.8 kilograms. We also confiscated non-narcotics evidence, including passports, mobile phones, and one four-wheeled vehicle,” Suyudi said in a statement.

According to BNN, the successful operation highlights the close cooperation among Indonesian law enforcement agencies in combating international drug trafficking networks that target Bali as a potential distribution hub.

Both suspects are currently being questioned as investigators continue to develop the case. Authorities are coordinating with Customs and Excise, Bali Police, and Immigration officials to determine whether additional members of the Russian drug network remain active in Bali.

BNN stated that further investigations are underway to uncover the broader trafficking network, trace the narcotics supply chain from overseas, and identify any other individuals involved in the smuggling operation.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation and intensifying efforts to combat transnational narcotics crimes in Indonesia.