Bali Customs Foil Gold Smuggling Attempt by Chinese National

Kuta, Bali - Customs officials at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 10.4 kilograms of gold, valued at around Rp26 billion (approximately $1.7 million), to Hong Kong. The suspect, identified only by the initials ZG, a Chinese national, was apprehended as he prepared to board a Cathay Pacific flight.

Wawan Dharmawan, the head of Bali's Customs Office, explained that the gold was concealed using a method known as body strapping, where the metal is affixed to the body to evade detection. This method has raised concerns among authorities regarding the effectiveness of current security measures at the airport. Wawan noted that the gold was hidden in ten brown packages containing fourteen solid bars, which were confirmed to be gold with a purity exceeding 99% after testing.

“The gold was hidden in ten brown packages containing fourteen solid bars, which were confirmed to be gold with a purity exceeding 99%.”Wawan Dharmawan, Head of Bali Customs Office

The operation was initiated following intelligence reports about ZG's suspicious behavior prior to boarding. Customs officials coordinated with airport security and immigration authorities to monitor the passenger. Upon inspection, the unusual movements of ZG prompted a thorough search, leading to the discovery of the concealed gold.

According to Wawan, the successful interception prevented a significant loss to the state, estimated at around Rp3.9 billion (about $250,000). He stated that this incident is part of the commitment to monitor the flow of goods leaving Indonesia and to prevent smuggling attempts that could harm national interests.

“This incident is part of our commitment to monitor the flow of goods leaving Indonesia and to prevent smuggling attempts that could harm national interests.”Wawan Dharmawan, Head of Bali Customs Office

In light of such incidents, the Indonesian government has implemented Regulation No. 80 of 2025, which imposes export duties on gold commodities. This regulation aims to maintain gold availability domestically, stabilize prices, and encourage local processing. The export tax rates range from 7.5% to 15%, depending on the type and processing level of the gold.

As authorities continue to strengthen border controls, they emphasize the importance of public education regarding legal export practices. Wawan concluded that they are working to ensure that export activities can occur legally and transparently, benefiting the national economy.