Nirul Rashim Abdoelrazak and Ksenia Varlamova appeared in Denpasar District Court on Thursday but proceedings were delayed after the defendants stated they wished to be represented by lawyers. The presiding judge warned against trusting individuals who promise leniency in exchange for payment.
DENPASAR, Bali — The narcotics trial of a Dutch-Russian couple accused of cultivating cannabis at a rented house in Denpasar was adjourned Thursday after both defendants told the court they had not yet secured legal representation.
Nirul Rashim Abdoelrazak, 31, and Ksenia Varlamova, 33, appeared before a panel of judges at the Denpasar District Court. Through interpreters, they requested time to appoint private lawyers before proceedings continued.
Presiding judge Iman Luqmanul Hakim offered assistance from the court’s legal aid post (Posbakum) but the defendants declined and reiterated their intention to hire their own counsel. The court then postponed the hearing until February 24, 2026.
Judge Warns Against Payment Promises
During the session, the judge cautioned both defendants about individuals claiming they could influence the verdict.
“Do not trust anyone who offers to reduce your sentence,” Hakim said.
“There are no transactional arrangements in this court. Decisions are based only on facts presented in trial. If anyone asks for money in exchange for leniency, ignore it or report it to the court.”
The statement reflects standard court practice aimed at preventing improper interference in judicial proceedings.
Allegations
Police said the couple was arrested on October 1, 2025 at a rented residence on Jalan Bina Kesuma in the Ubung Kaja area of Denpasar.
Investigators reported finding cannabis plants growing indoors along with dried cannabis leaves stored in containers. Officers also seized equipment used for a controlled indoor cultivation setup, including environmental control devices.
Authorities allege the cultivation began in May 2025.
Suspected Third Participant
Bali Police narcotics investigators have identified a third individual, known by the initial “C” and alias Chestar, who allegedly supplied cannabis seedlings to the residence. Police say the person remains at large.
No evidence regarding additional participants was presented during Thursday’s hearing, which focused on procedural matters.
Charges
Abdoelrazak and Varlamova are charged under Article 111 paragraph (2) and Article 113 paragraph (2) of Indonesia’s Narcotics Law (Law No. 35 of 2009).
The provisions carry potential prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years, depending on the court’s findings.
Next Hearing
Both defendants remain in detention while awaiting the next session. Proceedings are expected to resume once legal counsel is formally appointed.
The case follows several recent narcotics prosecutions involving foreign nationals in Bali, where courts apply the same statutory penalties regardless of citizenship.
