Four Dealers Arrested as Police Dismantle Drug Network in Karangasem

Four drug dealers were arrested by the Narcotics Unit of Karangasem Police in an operation spanning three separate locations. From the arrests, police seized 10 packets of crystal methamphetamine weighing 1.52 grams net, whilst also uncovering a drug distribution chain allegedly involving suppliers from Badung to Tabanan.

“From the hands of the four suspects, we secured 10 packets of crystal methamphetamine weighing 1.52 grams net,” said Karangasem Police Chief AKBP I Made Santika in a case briefing at Karangasem Police Headquarters on Wednesday (29/7/2026).

The case began with the arrest of a lorry driver with the initials IKS in Selat District, Karangasem Regency. Police detained IKS, a suspected dealer, along with several pieces of crystal methamphetamine evidence. A subsequent search of his home uncovered further packets of narcotics.

The interrogation led police to a man with the initials NS from Badung Regency, identified as the supplier of crystal methamphetamine to IKS. Following an investigation, police arrested NS at his lodging and again found several packets of crystal methamphetamine.

The investigation then continued. Based on NS’s testimony, the drugs had been obtained from an individual with the initials IPAM from Tabanan. The Karangasem Narcotics Unit moved to Tabanan and succeeded in securing IPAM along with several items of evidence.

At the same time, the Karangasem Narcotics Unit was also developing an investigation into drug trafficking in Sidemen District. From that probe, police secured a suspect with the initials AR along with several pieces of crystal methamphetamine evidence.

“The four dealers have been charged under Article 114 paragraph (1) of the narcotics law, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment,” said Santika.

Santika stressed that his team would continue pursuing those involved in drug trafficking down to its very roots. According to him, the circulation of illicit goods has disturbed the community and threatens the younger generation. He therefore urged the public to report promptly any suspected drug activity in their neighbourhoods.

“I want to emphasise that drug trafficking must be eradicated down to its roots. I will not tolerate it, because its impact is greater than theft cases,” said Santika.

According to Karangasem Police data, from January to July 2026 the Narcotics Unit has uncovered 19 drug trafficking cases involving a total of 27 suspects. From these suspects, police seized 51.45 grams net of crystal methamphetamine, 5.70 grams net of cannabis, and 19 ecstasy tablets.