CANGGU, Bali — The handgun used in last week’s shooting inside a popular Canggu bar was legally licensed, but investigators say a key component of the weapon did not match the specifications authorized under the suspect’s firearm permit, raising new questions about how the pistol was modified before the incident.
The suspect, identified as H.S.H., 49, from South Jakarta, had held a valid Indonesian firearm permit since 2021, according to Bali Police. Authorities said he was legally allowed to own and carry the weapon under an IKSA (Special Firearm Permit), a license issued under Indonesia’s tightly regulated civilian firearms system.
“After examining the ownership documents and related records, we confirmed that the suspect legally possessed the firearm and held a valid IKSA permit authorizing its use,” Badung Police Criminal Investigation Chief AKP Azarul Ahmad said during a press conference on Sunday.
A Licensed Gun With an Unlicensed Modification
While investigators found no irregularities with the firearm registration itself, forensic examinations uncovered a significant discrepancy.
Police said the pistol’s barrel had been replaced with a 9mm barrel, despite official permit documents authorizing only a .32 caliber barrel.
“The permit specifies a .32 caliber barrel in accordance with the registration documents. However, the suspect was found using a 9mm barrel. We are now investigating how he obtained that barrel,” Azarul said.
Authorities have not yet determined whether the modified component was legally acquired or when the alteration was made.
Because of the discrepancy, H.S.H. now faces charges related to the misuse of firearms, in addition to allegations of causing serious bodily injury. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years under Indonesia’s Criminal Code.
Security Didn’t Search Him Because He Was a Familiar Face
The latest findings also reveal how the suspect entered The Shady Pig, a well-known nightlife venue in Canggu’s Berawa area, while carrying the handgun.
According to investigators, security personnel did not conduct a weapons check because H.S.H. was already known to staff and had visited the venue frequently.
“He was allowed to enter without being searched because he was a regular customer and was known by the security guards,” Azarul explained.
The revelation has prompted fresh questions about security screening procedures at Bali nightlife venues, particularly those frequented by international tourists.
How the Shooting Unfolded
Police say the incident occurred during the early hours of Friday, July 17, after H.S.H. became involved in an argument with another customer identified by the initials A.D.
As security staff attempted to break up the altercation, the firearm discharged.
The bullet first struck 32-year-old security guard I.M.Y.M. in the thigh before continuing into the leg of E.A., a Moroccan national, who was standing behind him. Both victims survived and continue receiving medical treatment.
Investigators have not indicated that the shooting was premeditated, and the exact circumstances surrounding the discharge remain part of the ongoing investigation.
Police Recover Firearm and Ammunition
As part of the investigation, police seized the weapon believed to have been used in the shooting along with a substantial amount of related evidence, including:
- A Glock pistol bearing serial number BATV-955
- One spent projectile recovered from the scene
- Twelve rounds of 7.65mm ammunition
- One firearm holster
- Three magazines capable of holding 17 rounds each
- One extended magazine with a capacity of 31 rounds
Investigators continue to examine the firearm, ballistic evidence, and the modified barrel to determine whether additional offenses may have been committed.
For Bali, where strict gun laws make shootings exceptionally rare, the discovery that the suspect legally possessed the handgun—but allegedly altered it beyond the terms of its permit—adds another layer to a case that has drawn widespread attention from both residents and international visitors.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing as forensic specialists complete their analysis and prosecutors prepare the next stage of the case.
