Shock Arrest in Bali’s Surf Scene
Australian surfer Lamar Ahchee is facing the ultimate punishment—death—after being accused of trafficking $1.1 million worth of cocaine into Bali’s popular beach town of Canggu. The drugs were allegedly concealed in chocolate wrappers and delivered via package before authorities arrested him.
Indonesia’s Harsh Drug Laws
Indonesia is infamous for its zero-tolerance stance on drugs. Even minor possession can lead to lengthy prison sentences. But for alleged trafficking—especially of Class 1 narcotics like cocaine—the death penalty is on the table.
Claim of Innocence and Setup
Ahchee’s legal team claims he was set up. His lawyer, Edward Pangkahila, insists that Ahchee had no idea what was inside the package. “He never admitted to dealing,” Pangkahila said. “He was told by someone called ‘Boss’ to collect a package. He thought it was normal, and now he’s shocked.”
History Repeats in Bali
This isn’t a first. Bali has a long history of foreign nationals attempting to smuggle drugs through bizarre methods—like hiding them in surfboards. Many face the same fate: arrest, trial, and in some cases, execution.
“Heaven to Hell” in an Instant
As one former convict once told journalist Kathryn Bonella: “Bali can be heaven one minute and hell the next. You live the fantasy, you live the dream, but one day you wake up.”
Ahchee’s story now serves as the latest—and potentially most tragic—reminder of that harsh reality.