DENPASAR, Bali – Bali Police have revealed details of a drug smuggling case involving a Ukrainian traveler who was arrested at Ngurah Rai International Airport last month after officers allegedly discovered mephedrone concealed in his luggage.
The case came to light on Wednesday as authorities outlined an operation that resulted in the seizure of nearly one kilogram of the synthetic narcotic, which investigators believe was intended for distribution on the island.
The suspect, identified as Bohdan Lohush, 29, arrived in Bali on a Qatar Airways flight from Poland via Doha, according to Bali Police Narcotics Investigation Director Senior Commissioner Radiant.
Authorities said customs and police officers became suspicious of the traveler’s behavior during inspections in the international arrivals area and decided to conduct a more thorough examination.
The search allegedly uncovered three packages containing mephedrone, a stimulant classified as a Category I narcotic precursor under Indonesian law and commonly associated with synthetic drug production.
“The suspect attempted to smuggle the narcotics through Ngurah Rai Airport by concealing them in travel luggage,” Radiant said.
Police said the arrest took place on May 21, 2026.
Authorities seized 937 pills weighing 1,367.70 grams gross and 951.64 grams net, with an estimated street value of around Rp700 million (approximately US$37,000).
Investigators believe the drugs were being transported by air for eventual distribution in Bali.
The case marks the latest in a series of narcotics investigations involving foreign nationals on the island, as authorities continue efforts to disrupt international trafficking routes targeting Bali.
Lohush has been charged under Articles 610 and 609 of Indonesia’s criminal code, offenses that carry penalties of up to life imprisonment, lengthy prison terms, and substantial fines.
Radiant said investigators are now examining whether the suspect acted alone or received assistance from individuals already in Indonesia.
Authorities are also tracing potential links to overseas suppliers and local distribution networks.
Police estimate the seizure may have prevented drug abuse among approximately 4,755 people.
For investigators, the arrest represents more than a single airport interception. The focus now is on determining where the drugs originated, who was meant to receive them, and whether the case forms part of a broader international trafficking network operating through Bali.
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