Death Row Grandmother Lindsay Sandiford Returning to UK
Lindsay Sandiford, a British grandmother who spent 13 years on death row in Bali, is reportedly flying back to the UK today. She is being repatriated under a special agreement between the UK and Indonesia after being imprisoned for drug smuggling.
The 69-year-old and another British national are expected to leave Bali this afternoon on a 20-hour flight with a short stopover before arriving at Heathrow Airport.
Health and Support During Imprisonment
Sandiford has been described as seriously ill and was examined by a British consulate doctor on the island, according to Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Indonesia’s senior minister for legal affairs.
She spoke through a pastor who has supported her case, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to reunite with her family in England after years facing execution.
Pastor’s Statement on Repatriation
“We are deeply grateful for the courageous compassion shown by President Prabowo Subianto and the Indonesian government in their commitment to repatriate Lindsay Sandiford on humanitarian grounds. After 13 years, she is keen to be back home with her family. She will forever be grateful for this second chance.”
— Rev. Christie Buckingham, Bayside Church, Melbourne, currently in Indonesia
Background
- Lindsay Sandiford was imprisoned in Bali for drug smuggling.
- She faced imminent execution before the repatriation agreement.
- The transfer is a result of humanitarian efforts supported by Indonesian authorities.
Sandiford is a mother of two and hopes to rebuild her life after the ordeal.
Author's summary: After 13 years on death row in Bali for drug offences, Lindsay Sandiford is finally returning home to the UK under a humanitarian repatriation agreement, supported by Indonesian officials and her advocates.