Beritabali.com reports that on Friday, 11 April 2026, 24-year-old Russian man Yuriy Khalilov was arrested for smuggling 2.5 kg of cocaine through Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport.
Customs inspectors found the cocaine hidden in Khalilov’s suitcase.
The Director of the Anti-Narcotics Division of the Bali Police, Commissioner Radiant, said the narcotics were discovered by police and customs inspectors when the Russian tourist was seen acting suspiciously in the arrival terminal, prompting a thorough inspection of the man’s luggage.
Police say the man flew to Bali after transiting Turkey, a journey that began in Poland. Police suspicions were fueled by the results of an X-ray examination of the passenger’s luggage. Officials found a packet wrapped in aluminum foil holding eight clear plastic envelopes with 2.5 kilograms of cocaine.
Police estimate the narcotics have a street value of Rp. 17.8 billion is able to supply an estimated 12,700 drug users.
Indonesian Police report that the seizure is considered part of an international drug operation.
Police have evidence that the Russian has communicated with a man on INTERPOL’s “Most Wanted” Red Notice List since 28 February 2026. On 09 April 2026, Khalilov met the man near Waraw’s airport, received the cocaine to carry to Bali, and was paid $200 of the promised $1,000. The Russian also received hotel vouchers and airline tickets.
Upon arrival in Bali, Khalilov was told he would be contacted by phone with directions on where to deliver the smuggled drugs.
Khalilov now faces criminal charges punishable by life imprisonment or 20 years behind bars.
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