Denpasar, July 2025 – In a stark reminder of Bali’s uncompromising stance on narcotics, a 25-year-old Brazilian national, Yuri Besera Dacosta (alias YB), now faces the death penalty after being caught with 3.089 kilograms of cocaine at Ngurah Rai International Airport. The arrest, made on July 13, 2025, underscores Indonesia’s severe drug laws—where even couriers risk execution.
The Failed Smuggling Attempt
According to Bali Narcotics Agency (BNNP) chief Kombes I Made Sinar Subawa, Dacosta arrived on July 13 via a flight from Rio de Janeiro. Customs officers detected anomalies during X-ray screening, leading to the discovery of:
-
3.089kg pure cocaine (street value: ~$300,000)
-
$500 payment hidden within the drug packaging
-
Prepaid airline ticket provided by Brazilian syndicate “Tio”
Dacosta now faces charges under Article 113(2) of Indonesia’s Narcotics Law, which carries the death penalty. Historical data shows Bali courts have sentenced 17 foreign nationals to execution since 2015.
How the Smuggling Operation Unfolded
Yuri arrived from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with the drugs cleverly concealed in his luggage. Customs officers detected anomalies during an X-ray scan, leading to a full search. The cocaine, valued at hundreds of thousands of dollars, was allegedly part of a larger syndicate operation.
-
Payment: Yuri was promised $500, tucked inside the drug package.
-
Method: His flight ticket was prearranged by a Brazilian cartel contact named “Tio.”
-
Betrayal: After his arrest, both Tio and the Bali-based buyer cut all contact, leaving Yuri to face the consequences alone.
The Courier Trap
The arrest follows an identical pattern to the June 19 capture of South African national Mzimela, who smuggled 990 grams of methamphetamine from Johannesburg:
-
Modus Operandi: International couriers receive pre-paid travel and nominal fees ($100-$500)
-
Cutoff Protocol: Syndicates immediately sever contact upon arrest
-
Health Risks: Both suspects required medical attention during processing
“These aren’t kingpins—they’re expendable mules,” explained Interpol liaison officer Putu Wijaya. “The real criminals never board planes.”
Bali’s Harsh Drug Laws: No Exceptions
Under Article 113(2) of Indonesia’s Narcotics Law (No. 35/2009), trafficking over 5 grams of cocaine can lead to the death penalty. Yuri’s case is far from isolated—six other suspects (MS, NL, LP, SW, AW, AR) linked to a Jimbaran-Madura-Lombok drug ring were recently arrested under the same law.
Kombes I Made Sinar Subawa, Head of Bali’s Narcotics Division, warned:
“Drug couriers often believe they won’t get caught. But once they are, their employers abandon them. The penalty is final—no appeals, no mercy.”
A Second Case: South African Courier Collapses During Press Conference
In a related incident, South African national Mzimela was arrested at Ngurah Rai with 990 grams of methamphetamine hidden in his underwear. He was promised $100 + Rp 1 million by a Johannesburg-based contact, “Cindy.”
-
After his arrest, Cindy disappeared, leaving Mzimela stranded.
-
During interrogation, he fell ill and was rushed to a clinic, highlighting the physical toll of drug smuggling.
Global Warning: Bali’s Drug Laws Are No Joke
Indonesia enforces some of the world’s strictest anti-drug policies. Since 2015, multiple foreigners have been executed by firing squad for trafficking.
Key Facts for Travelers:
- Death Penalty Applies – Even for small quantities.
- No “Just a Courier” Defense – Courts don’t reduce sentences for low-level roles.
- Cartels Abandon Their Couriers – Smugglers are left to face punishment alone.
Final Message to Tourists: Stay Away from Drugs
Bali’s idyllic beaches and vibrant culture attract millions—but its zero-tolerance drug policy is absolute. If you’re visiting:
- Never carry drugs (even for personal use).
- Avoid suspicious packages from strangers.
- Understand the risks—execution is a real possibility.
Giostanovlatto – Bali Today
