Narcotics cases in Bali rise by 22.92%, with the 'tempel' modus operandi and postal parcels remaining widespread

Drug trafficking in Bali remains high. The Bali Regional Police’s Directorate of Drug Investigation (Ditresnarkoba Polda Bali) recorded narcotics cases from January to May 2026 increasing by 80 cases or 22.92% compared with the same period last year. Director of Drug Investigation (Dirresnarkoba) Kombes Radiant said the rise indicates that illicit drug distribution activity in Bali remains massive with distribution patterns continuing to evolve. ‘This increase shows that illicit drug distribution activity remains high with various modus operandi that continue to develop and utilise various distribution channels,’ Radiant said during an interview at Bali Police Headquarters on Wednesday (20/5/2026). Among the patterns uncovered during 2026, the police found several patterns most commonly used by perpetrators to carry out their actions. The dominant modus operandi is the ‘tempel’ system, shipments via postal parcels, the use of intermediaries or couriers, and exploiting port, terminal, and airport routes. According to Radiant, perpetrators continue to seek loopholes to avoid surveillance by authorities. Therefore, the police are tightening surveillance and strengthening coordination with various parties in the fight against narcotics. In addition to exposing distribution patterns, Ditresnarkoba Polda Bali also recorded several types of narcotics commonly found in 2026. The evidence includes narcotics such as methamphetamine (sabu), Ecstasy, cocaine, and cannabis. Radiant stressed that their focus is not only on enforcement but also on prevention through public education about the dangers of drug abuse. He reminded that drug use can cause serious, permanent brain and body damage, addiction that is hard to cure, and can drive criminal behaviour due to the influence of drugs. In addition, narcotics abuse can damage social and family relationships and risks of death from overdose. ‘We call on all people to stay away from drugs in any form, monitor children and teenagers from negative environmental influences, and report suspicious drug-related activity to authorities,’ Radiant said. (dpw/dpw)