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BreakingCrime & SafetyPublished: September 11, 2026

Australian Man Arrested in Denpasar on Suspicion of Dealing Marijuana, Dozens of Packets Seized

Denpasar police arrested a 36-year-old Australian man suspected of dealing marijuana from an apartment in the Pemogan area. Officers seized 37 packets of dried marijuana, two packets of tobacco allegedly containing synthetic narcotics, and an electronic scale, and the investigation into his supplier continues.

Denpasar City Police's Narcotics Unit (Satresnarkoba) arrested an Australian man, identified by initials ARB (36), on suspicion of dealing marijuana from an apartment in South Denpasar's Pemogan area, following a tip from the public about suspected drug distribution by a foreign national in the area.

According to police, at around 7 p.m. on Monday, August 10, officers located the suspect at Dewi Sri Apartment on Jalan Raya Kepaon and detained him, then searched his room. The search turned up 37 clip packets containing dried leaves, seeds, and stems believed to be marijuana, with a total net weight of about 36.64 grams, along with two packets of tobacco suspected of containing synthetic narcotics weighing about 21.30 grams. A bong believed to be used for methamphetamine and an electronic scale were also seized.

In initial questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted to buying the marijuana for Rp2 million from an unidentified individual, with the transaction said to have taken place in the Kuta Beach area. Police are continuing to investigate the supplier. The suspect is being processed under Article 111 paragraph (1) of Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics.

Things to Consider

Possession, use, or distribution of marijuana and other narcotics is treated as a serious crime in Indonesia, and foreigners are not exempt from arrest and lengthy detention. Tourists and residents alike should never buy or accept drugs from strangers on the street or near beaches. Avoid storing other people's belongings in your room or luggage, and if you find yourself in a situation that could implicate you in illegal drug activity, contact your embassy or consulate immediately for legal guidance.

Source: ANTARA News Bali