Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration has arrested a foreigner listed on an Interpol Red Notice at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. The suspect, identified by Steven Lyons (SL), was detained upon arrival on a flight from Singapore.
The arrest was carried out by officers at the Immigration Checkpoint (Tempat Pemeriksaan Imigrasi/TPI) at the airport. According to authorities, the immigration system flagged the individual during routine checks, identifying him as a wanted international fugitive.
According to Kompas.com, Head of the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office, Bugie Kurniawan, confirmed that the arrest took place on Monday, 30 March 2026. He said the detection was the result of integrated systems and coordination with international law enforcement agencies.
Suspected Leader of International Criminal Network
Authorities suspect that SL is involved in organised transnational crime. Based on available intelligence and coordination with international agencies, he is believed to be connected to an international criminal organisation engaged in financial crimes.
“He is suspected of being the mastermind controlling members of his network in operating fictitious companies and engaging in money laundering,” Bugie said in a written statement.
He added that the arrest demonstrates the capability of Indonesian immigration officers to identify and intercept high-risk individuals entering the country.
“SL’s successful arrest is a testament to the sharp instincts and extensive experience of our officers and landing officers at Ngurah Rai Airport’s Terminal 1 (TPI). Our systems are well integrated, and our officers are highly experienced in detecting and apprehending Interpol fugitives,” he said.
Bugie also issued a warning to transnational criminal groups, stating that Bali should not be considered a safe destination for individuals involved in international crime.
Handover to Police and Ongoing Coordination
Following the arrest, immigration officers transferred SL to the Airport Police at I Gusti Ngurah Rai for further legal processing. The handover was conducted in accordance with procedures governing the handling of international fugitives.
Head of the Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration, Felucia Sengky Ratna, confirmed that the process followed established protocols. She emphasised the importance of maintaining strict monitoring at Indonesia’s entry points.
“The arrest of this foreigner demonstrates the multi-layered and stringent immigration oversight at Bali’s entry points,” Felucia said.
She added that immigration authorities will continue to strengthen coordination and improve surveillance measures.
“All work units under the Bali Regional Office of Immigration will continue to strengthen coordination, increase vigilance, and optimise the use of technology and international cooperation,” she said.
Felucia also stressed the broader objective of maintaining public order and security in the region.
“Bali must remain a safe and orderly region, providing no space for lawbreakers, including international fugitives,” she said.
She further noted that the case highlights the effectiveness of early warning systems and cooperation between Indonesian authorities and global law enforcement networks. Immigration officials stated that coordination with Interpol and related agencies will continue to prevent individuals linked to serious crimes from entering the country.
Cover: Doc. Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi