DENPASAR, Bali — Indonesian authorities have foiled an attempted cocaine smuggling operation involving more than 2.5 kilograms of the drug, in a case believed to be linked to an international narcotics network.

A 24-year-old Russian national, identified by his initials YK in line with Indonesian police policy, was arrested upon arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali.

Senior Commissioner Radiant, Director of the Bali Police Narcotics Investigation Unit, said the operation was carried out in coordination with officers from Ngurah Rai Customs.

“The cocaine was concealed in a false compartment at the back of a suitcase originating from Poland,” he said on Tuesday.

Suspicious Arrival Triggers Inspection

The case began on April 10, when joint officers grew suspicious of a foreign passenger arriving on a LOT Polish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Denpasar.

An X-ray scan of the suspect’s green suitcase revealed irregularities, prompting a physical inspection. Officers discovered eight foil-wrapped packages containing a white powder.

Laboratory tests later confirmed the substance as cocaine, with a total weight of 2,544 grams.

Recruited in Poland

Police said the suspect admitted he had been recruited in Poland by an individual identified as Igor, who offered him US$1,000 to transport the suitcase to Bali.

He reportedly received an upfront payment of US$200, along with airfare and accommodation in a villa in Bali’s Canggu area.

Authorities believe another party was scheduled to collect the suitcase upon arrival, but the handover was thwarted following the arrest.

Rp17.8 Billion Worth of Drugs Seized

In addition to the cocaine, officers seized the suitcase, boarding passes, and two mobile phones.

The drugs are estimated to have a street value of Rp17.8 billion (approximately US$1 million), authorities said.

Facing Severe Penalties

The suspect is expected to be charged under Indonesia’s strict narcotics laws, which carry penalties ranging from 20 years in prison to life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Investigators are continuing efforts to trace the wider drug trafficking network, both domestically and internationally.