The trial of an Australian man accused of drug smuggling in Bali has commenced, with serious charges that could lead to the death penalty. Lamar Ahchee, 43, is alleged to have orchestrated the delivery of 1.7 kilograms of cocaine, valued at approximately $1.1 million, to Bali in May.

Following his arrest, Ahchee was presented to the media, standing behind numerous small packages containing the cocaine. Authorities claim the drugs were concealed in 206 Lindor Lindt chocolate wrappers. Police were alerted to the packages upon their arrival in Denpasar and subsequently tracked them to Ahchee's apartment in Tibubeneng, North Kuta. It is alleged that he arranged for ride-share drivers to collect the packages from post offices, reportedly being offered $4,700 for the delivery.

Ahchee, originally from Cairns, has resided in Indonesia for several years, working in hospitality and marketing. In August, after completing their investigation, police forwarded the case to Bali's prosecutors to initiate the trial process. Over the next month or two, a Bali District Court will evaluate whether Ahchee is guilty of four charges, which include importing, distributing, possessing, and using drugs.

If convicted of importing or distributing more than one kilogram of cocaine, Ahchee could face the death penalty, life imprisonment, or a sentence exceeding five years. Conversely, if found guilty of possession or a lesser drug use charge, he may receive a shorter prison term.

Authorities indicated that the cocaine was delivered to Ahchee by an individual he referred to as "the boss." He was allegedly instructed to locate a phone hidden in a brown envelope near a café in Canggu, which was then used to coordinate the delivery. At the time of his arrest, Ahchee reportedly tested positive for cocaine.

Since the case was handed over to prosecutors, Ahchee has been detained at Kerobokan, Bali's main prison. Observers of the case suggest that the likelihood of Ahchee receiving the death penalty is low, and even if sentenced to death, execution may not occur. Indonesia last executed individuals in 2016, and several foreign nationals sentenced to death have been repatriated in recent years. For instance, three British citizens recently received one-year prison sentences for smuggling just under one kilogram of cocaine into Bali.

In June, Ahchee's family visited Bali and issued a statement expressing gratitude to Indonesian authorities for their professionalism. "We are grateful for the fair and respectful treatment he has received from law enforcement and legal officials throughout this process," said Ahchee's sister, Stephanie. "We acknowledge the seriousness of this case and the situation and remain committed to full cooperation with the legal system to ensure a just outcome."

Ahchee's legal representatives have previously stated that he is a drug user but not a dealer.