BNN uncovers Russian-linked mephedrone laboratory network in Gianyar

Gianyar, Bali (ANTARA) - The National Narcotics Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (BNN RI) has dismantled a drug-lab syndicate manufacturing mephedrone controlled by a Russian network at The Lavana De’Bale Marcapada, Pering, Blahbatuh Sub-district, Gianyar Regency. BNN RI Chief Inspector General Suyudi Ario Seto told a press conference in Gianyar, Bali, on Saturday that the success of the anti-narcotics operation stems from a joint operation between BNN RI, the Directorate General of Customs and Excise and the Directorate General of Immigration in collaboration with Bali Police. “The success is the result of joint operation between BNN RI, Dirjen Bea Cukai and Dirjen Imigrasi intensively since January 2026 until they uncovered the clandestine lab operating in Gianyar, Bali and managed to arrest two suspected perpetrators, Russian nationals.” In the case, BNN secured two foreign nationals (WNA) from Russia, namely NT (female) alias KS and ST (male). They are believed to have played active roles in the production and distribution of mephedrone, a highly dangerous party drug. Meanwhile, Acting Deputy for Enforcement of BNN RI Brigadier General Roy Hardi Siahaan explained that mephedrone, a Schedule I narcotic, has been uncovered several times in Indonesia by law enforcement. However, for BNN, this is the first time a mephedrone laboratory of this size was uncovered. “When looking at the quantity, this is the largest, 7.3 kilograms net,” he said. In this case, two suspects, Russian nationals identified as N and ST, were arrested. They have been in Indonesia since January 2026. Law enforcement finally uncovered the operation on Thursday (5/3) around 23:45 WITA after surveillance and tailing the suspects since January 2026. The arrest was made after the narcotics had completed production, preventing its distribution. Evidence found included mephedrone in solid form about 644 grams and in liquid form 7,250 milliliters, totaling gross weight 7,894 grams (7.8 kg). Additionally, investigators seized various precursors or solid materials amounting to 2,600 grams (2.6 kg) and liquids amounting to 219,780 milliliters (219.7 kg) believed to be used to produce mephedrone. Some liquid precursors found included ethyl acetate, 96% alcohol, dichloromethane, methylamine, hydrobromic acid, citric acid, and toluene. Also found were production equipment for clandestine labs, such as digital scales, fruit dryer, respirator masks, filter paper, Erlenmeyer, pans, syringes, jerrycans, and a magnetic stirrer.