Authorities in Bali raided a villa in Canggu, Badung, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, uncovering a drug-fueled gathering involving foreign nationals.
Police confirmed it was, in fact, a narcotics-related event disguised as a Christmas and New Year celebration.
Nine Detained, Two Held for Further Investigation
The raid led to the detention of nine individuals out of approximately 50 foreign attendees.
Following preliminary investigations at the Bali Provincial National Narcotics Agency (BNNP) office, seven of the detainees were found not to have consumed any narcotics and were subsequently released.
Two individuals remain in custody, one of whom tested positive for THC.
“One individual, a Russian national who was the event organizer, tested positive for THC,” said Commissioner I Made Sinar Subawa, Head of Eradication at BNNP Bali, during a press briefing on Monday, December 23, 2024.
The other individual, also an organizer, has not been conclusively linked to narcotics use.
Drugs Discovered During Raid
The operation, supported by K-9 units, uncovered traces of two narcotics—benzodiazepines (Benzo) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—hidden in the folds of sofas at the villa.
“We found these substances concealed within the furniture. The detection was made possible by the use of sniffer dogs deployed across the premises,” Sinar explained.
Exclusive Party with Paid Entry
According to police statements, the event was invitation-only, with attendees required to pay an entry fee. While organizers claimed the party was solely a private celebration, investigators remained skeptical.
“We received information that the event was invitation-only and required payment for entry,” Sinar said.
One organizer admitted knowing only a few of the attendees, while others were strangers to them.
Broader Crackdown on Narcotics in Bali
The Canggu raid was part of a larger operation targeting narcotics use in Bali during the holiday season. In addition to the villa raid, BNNP Bali also apprehended 11 individuals at various nightlife venues. Among them, five tested positive for consuming synthetic cannabinoids (K2), Benzo, and THC.
Indonesia’s Strict Drug Laws
Indonesia’s laws against narcotics are among the harshest in the world. Under Narcotics Law No. 35 of 2009, marijuana, classified as a Group 1 narcotic, carries severe penalties. Possession can result in up to 12 years in prison and a fine of 8 billion IDR, while trafficking may lead to the death penalty.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of compliance with local laws, emphasizing zero tolerance for drug-related activities, especially in popular tourist destinations like Bali.
