Frail drug courier Lindsay Sandiford narrowly escaped a death sentence in Bali following intervention by Keir Starmer due to health concerns. Sandiford, a 69-year-old legal secretary, faced the death penalty in 2013 for smuggling £1.6m worth of cocaine. She spent 12 years in Indonesia’s Kerobokan prison after claiming she was coerced by a UK drug syndicate to transport drugs from Thailand.
Indonesian officials have agreed to transfer Sandiford back to the UK, citing her “serious illness” confirmed by UK doctors. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper personally appealed to Indonesian authorities for Sandiford’s repatriation.
A meeting to finalize Sandiford’s release is expected soon, with UK authorities set to receive her at the airport. The agreement for her return signals improved international relations with Indonesia, with reciprocal arrangements for Indonesian prisoners in the UK also considered.
Indonesia’s senior law and human rights minister confirmed Sandiford’s health condition and the planned transfer, alongside another inmate, Shahab Shahabadi. The agreement, signed in Jakarta, involves cooperation between the UK and Indonesian governments.
Sandiford’s ordeal began in 2012 when she was arrested in Bali for drug trafficking. Despite claiming coercion by a criminal gang, she was convicted and sentenced to death. Efforts by her legal team and human rights advocates to secure her release have been ongoing.
Sandiford’s imminent return to the UK has raised hopes for her release upon arrival, as she has already served a significant portion of her sentence. Dr. Felicity Gerry KC, a prominent human rights barrister, emphasized the need for Sandiford’s immediate freedom upon her return.
Sandiford’s long wait for reprieve has been marked by challenges and uncertainties, including the possibility of facing the death penalty. Her impending return to the UK signifies a pivotal moment in her prolonged legal battle and offers a glimpse of hope for her future.
