Bali Police Make Critical Breakthrough in Australian Man’s Murder Case
Indonesian police have made significant progress in their investigation into last month’s fatal shooting in Bali that claimed the life of 32-year-old Australian man Zivan Radmanovic and left his friend Sanar Ghanim seriously injured. Authorities have recovered two firearms they believe are connected to the June 13 attack, marking a major development in the high-profile case.
Key Evidence Uncovered in Villa Shooting
Investigators announced they found the alleged murder weapon submerged in an irrigation stream near the crime scene, with a second pistol discovered within 50 meters. Both weapons have undergone ballistic testing, with police confirming the bullets and shell casings match those from the attack at the Bali villa.
“Through forensic examination, we can confirm these are the weapons used in the shooting,” said Bali Police Chief Inspector I Gede Alit Widana during a press conference where one of the pistols was displayed in an evidence bag.
DNA Evidence Links Suspects to Crime Scene
In addition to the firearms, police revealed they obtained DNA evidence from a balaclava and pair of gloves found near the scene that matches one of the three Australian suspects currently in custody. This forensic evidence strengthens the case against the accused men, who authorities claim planned the attack in advance.
Suspects Face Grave Charges
The three Australian nationals – identified as Coskun Mevlut, Tupou Pasa Midolmore, and Darcy Francesco Jenson – remain in custody facing premeditated murder charges. Under Indonesian law, this offense carries a maximum penalty of death by firing squad.
“Based on the evidence we’ve collected, including witness testimony and forensic analysis, we have a strong case for premeditated murder,” Widana stated. An Australian embassy-appointed lawyer is representing the trio as the case moves toward trial.
Details of the Fatal Attack
The violent incident occurred at a private villa in the upscale Seminyak area, where Radmanovic was shot multiple times at close range. His friend Ghanim survived the attack but sustained serious injuries from a brutal beating. Police have not disclosed a possible motive but suggest the assault was carefully planned.
International Attention on the Case
The killing has drawn significant attention due to both the victim’s nationality and the involvement of other Australians as suspects. The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it is providing consular assistance to all parties involved while respecting the Indonesian judicial process.
Next Steps in the Investigation
With the recovery of key physical evidence, prosecutors are now preparing their case for trial. Forensic experts continue to analyze the weapons and other items collected from the crime scene. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests as the investigation continues.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The violent crime has raised safety concerns among Bali’s large expatriate community and tourists. Local officials have sought to reassure visitors, emphasizing that such incidents remain rare in the popular holiday destination.
As the case progresses, international observers will be watching closely to see how Indonesia’s justice system handles this complex, transnational murder investigation involving foreign nationals on both sides of the case.
