International drug lab busted in Bali: two Ukrainians, Russian arrested

Two Ukrainians and a Russian created a drug laboratory beyond national divisions. The problem is that they were engaged in criminal activity in Bali, where extremely strict laws prevail.

Tropical forests, mountains, the ocean, high temperatures, delicious food, exciting culture, and historical sites make the Indonesian island of Bali a tourist paradise. A drug laboratory was operating in a villa located off the popular trails and away from curious crowds.

The police raided the building, apprehending two Ukrainians, a Russian, and an Indonesian citizen. This international group was producing hydroponic marijuana and mephedrone. The Ukrainians were responsible for drug manufacturing, while the Russians handled sales within a network called Hydra.

Officers confiscated 10 kilograms of hydroponic marijuana, 680 grams of mephedrone, and 110 grams of cocaine. "We also confiscated equipment for forming ecstasy, with which the suspects attempted to produce drugs, but it always ended in failure," said Wahyu Widada, head of the Indonesian criminal agency, in a press release.

The members of the laboratory were charged with drug offences. They face a maximum of death penalty and a fine of 10 billion rupiahs (approximately $580,000 CAD). Additionally, the police are conducting another investigation related to the drug laboratory in Jakarta concerning the Indonesian suspect.

The international group chose a country with stringent regulations regarding drug-related activities. The maximum penalty for illegal substance dealers is death. Dozens of dealers, including a 65-year-old British woman accused of heroin smuggling, are currently awaiting their sentences in local prisons.

Indonesian politicians openly encourage authorities to crack down on dealers mercilessly. The words of Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who ordered security forces to shoot dealers if they resisted, once spread through global media.