Bali businessman's death leaves customers chasing lost money

The death of Perth businessman Cameron Hughes in a Bali immigration detention center has left a significant financial and logistical void for his customers, many of whom fear losing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hughes, 39, was found unresponsive in a toilet after being detained for alleged visa breaches.

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I also need to apologise … to everyone for my stupid behaviour in recent times. Alot [sic] of it caused by stress confusion and hitting the turps

Hughes had been living in Bali for over 15 years, running car restoration businesses including Karma Kombis and Holden Resto Bali. Customers across Australia and other countries reported paying substantial amounts, ranging from a few thousand to $100,000, for classic car sourcing and restoration. However, many vehicles have reportedly been in his yard for years with little to no work done, or were delivered in a non-roadworthy condition.

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Cam said he would build me a Kombi in six months for $10,000.

One customer recounted a decade-long association with Hughes, involving a Kombi restoration that, after four years and an additional $30,000, was delivered in the same condition as it was purchased, apart from a new paint job. This vehicle was later deemed not roadworthy by an expert in Australia.

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It was exactly the same as when I bought it, except a new lick of paint.

Concerns about Hughes's business practices have been ongoing, with a private Facebook group, 'Holden Resto Bali Horror Stories,' growing significantly since his death. The group now has over 500 members, with a public page attracting about 1,000 followers. These platforms are filled with anecdotes from customers detailing their negative experiences, leaving many uncertain about recovering their investments or receiving their vehicles.

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and they told me it wasn't roadworthy.