“This is a very unique phenomenon, where nationals of Russia and Ukraine–two countries currently at war–have become partners in the crime (of) drug trafficking in Bali,” he said during a public lecture at Udayana University, Bali, on Tuesday.
Elaborating on the sophisticated techniques used by the drug trafficking network, he disclosed that it utilizes advanced distributed ledger technology, particularly blockchain, to run businesses while staying under the radar of law enforcement agencies.
According to Hukom, the traffickers make use of social media, especially Instagram, to communicate with buyers and conduct transactions using coded language and an end-to-end encryption system.
To make their transactions even more difficult to trace, they use cryptocurrencies for payments.
This allows the traffickers to complete transactions with buyers within two minutes, who are then given the coordinates of pick-up locations.
“It is very difficult to crack down on such practices because the perpetrators do not make transactions in a conventional manner,” Hukom said.
Considering the two countries are at war, the motive for the joint drug operation remains unclear. However, he said he suspects that their activities are driven by the relatively high demand for drugs in the province, which is known for its tourism appeal globally.
He affirmed that the BNN will make every effort to tackle the issue of drug trafficking, including building cooperation with the Russian government.
“We are working with Russia to crack down on this syndicate,” he said.
Related news: Australian national arrested in Bali for drug possession
Related news: Bali Police arrest UK nationals for Rp6 billion drug smuggling attempt
Related news: Police arrest Bali drug lab mastermind
Translator: Rolandus N, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
