Authorities in Denpasar, Bali, have arrested a 33-year-old man on suspicion of involvement in an illegal firearms network. The arrest, carried out by a joint team from Indonesia’s Eastern Fleet Command V and the Bali naval base, took place on Thursday, January 22, at a roadside food stall in Padang Sambian, West Denpasar.
Details of the Arrest
The suspect, identified as ASR, is a private security employee and a registered member of a reserve military component. According to Bali Naval Base Spokesperson Captain Eko Mey, ASR was detained following intelligence gathering that linked him to the distribution of illegal firearms in the Bali region. Officers arrested ASR without resistance while he was preparing to eat.
Evidence seized by authorities included a homemade Sig Sauer-type handgun, four rounds of 9 mm live ammunition, and one soft gun. Also confiscated were reserve component insignia, multiple ATM cards from different banks, and an iPhone 13 Pro Max belonging to ASR.
Transfer to Police Authority
On Friday, January 23, the suspect and the seized evidence were transferred to the South Denpasar police for further legal processing. The handover was conducted by Bali naval base officials, led by executive officer Major I Nyoman Astawa Yasa, and received by South Denpasar police Chief Adjunct Commissioner Agus Adi Apriyoga.
The Bali naval base commander stated that the transfer reflects strong coordination between the navy and police in enforcing the law and combating illegal firearms circulation. Legal proceedings are now under the full authority of the police.
Looking Ahead
The navy has urged personnel and the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security authorities. This directive follows an order from Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali to strengthen cooperation against security threats. It is possible that further investigations will focus on identifying other members of the alleged firearms network. A thorough investigation by South Denpasar police could lead to additional arrests and the uncovering of the network’s full scope. It is also likely that authorities will review security protocols for reserve military component members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the suspect in custody?
The suspect is identified as ASR, a 33-year-old private security employee who is also registered as a reserve military component member. He is a native of Bandar Lampung.
What evidence was seized during the arrest?
Authorities seized a homemade Sig Sauer-type handgun, four rounds of 9 mm live ammunition, one soft gun, reserve component insignia, several ATM cards, and an iPhone 13 Pro Max.
What happens next in this case?
The suspect and evidence have been handed over to South Denpasar police for further legal processing. Legal proceedings are now under the full authority of the police.
How might increased vigilance from the public contribute to preventing similar incidents in the future?
