The trial of Lamar Ahchee, a 43-year-old Australian man, has commenced in Bali, where he faces serious charges related to drug smuggling that could result in the death penalty. Prosecutors allege that in May 2023, Ahchee organized the delivery of 1.7 kilograms of cocaine, valued at approximately $1.1 million, concealed within 206 Lindor Lindt chocolate wrappers.
Authorities claim they were alerted to the packages upon their arrival in Denpasar, Bali’s capital, and subsequently tracked them to Ahchee’s apartment in Tibubeneng, North Kuta. It is reported that he arranged for the packages to be picked up by ride-share drivers, allegedly offering $4,700 for their delivery to him. Following his arrest, Ahchee was presented to the media, standing behind a display of the seized cocaine packages.
Charges and Potential Sentencing
Ahchee faces four charges, including importing, distributing, possessing, and using illegal drugs. If convicted of the more severe charges related to importing or distributing over one kilogram of cocaine, he could face the death penalty or a life sentence. Conversely, if found guilty of lesser charges, such as possession or drug use, he may receive a significantly shorter prison term.
Police investigations revealed that the cocaine was reportedly delivered to Ahchee by an individual referred to as “the boss.” Additionally, he was allegedly instructed to locate a phone concealed in a brown envelope near a café in Canggu, which was used to facilitate the drug delivery. At the time of his arrest, Ahchee reportedly tested positive for cocaine.
Legal Proceedings and Family’s Statement
Since the case was transferred to Bali’s prosecutors in August 2023, Ahchee has been held in Kerobokan Prison. Observers of the case suggest that a death penalty sentence is unlikely, noting that Indonesia has not executed anyone since 2016 and that several foreign nationals previously sentenced to death have been repatriated.
Ahchee’s family has expressed gratitude towards Indonesian authorities for their professional handling of the situation. In a statement released in June, his sister, Stephanie Ahchee, acknowledged the seriousness of the case and emphasized their commitment to cooperating fully with the legal system to ensure a just outcome. She stated, “We are grateful for the fair and respectful treatment he has received from law enforcement and legal officials throughout this process.”
Ahchee’s legal representatives have previously indicated that he is a drug user but not a dealer, which may influence the court’s decision as the proceedings unfold. The Bali District Court is expected to deliberate on the case over the next month or two, determining the outcome of the serious charges against him.
