Denpasar, Bali (ANTARA) - Authorities in Bali have intercepted an attempted smuggling of more than 2.5 kilograms of cocaine, believed to be tied to an international narcotics network.

The suspect, identified as YK (24), a Russian national, was arrested at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Director of the Bali Police Narcotics Investigation Unit Senior Commissioner Radiant said the operation was carried out in cooperation with Ngurah Rai Customs.

“The cocaine was concealed in the back wall of a suitcase originating from Poland,” he told reporters on Tuesday.

The case began on April 10, when joint officers grew suspicious of a foreign passenger arriving on a Polish Airlines flight from Istanbul to Denpasar.

An X-ray scan of his green suitcase revealed hidden packages.

Upon inspection, eight foil-wrapped packets containing white powder were discovered.

Forensic tests confirmed the substance as cocaine, weighing 2,544 grams — equivalent to more than 2.5 kilograms.

Police said the suspect admitted he was recruited in Poland by an individual named Igor, who promised him US$1,000 for transporting the suitcase.

He had already received a US$200 advance, airfare, and accommodation in a villa in Bali’s Canggu area.

The plan was for another party to collect the suitcase upon his arrival, but the handover was thwarted.

In addition to the narcotics, police seized the suitcase, boarding passes, and two mobile phones.

The drugs are estimated to have a street value of Rp17.8 billion (around US$1 million), authorities said.

The suspect faces charges under Indonesia’s strict narcotics laws, which carry penalties ranging from 20 years in prison to life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Investigators are continuing efforts to trace the wider distribution network, both domestically and internationally.