Death row gran Lindsay Sandiford lands in UK after 13 years in Bali prison

British Grandmother Released from Bali Death Row Returns to UK

Lindsay Sandiford, a 69-year-old British grandmother, has returned to the UK after spending 13 years in a Bali prison. She was freed following a repatriation agreement between the UK and Indonesia.

Sandiford was convicted of smuggling cocaine valued at £1.6 million into Bali. Before her release, she faced the threat of execution by firing squad. After a 20-hour journey from Bali via Dubai, she arrived at Heathrow Airport on a government-funded £600 ticket. At the airport, she appeared frail and covered her face, using a wheelchair to reach transportation.

The Indonesian minister Yusril Mahendra stated that Sandiford is “seriously ill” and has been examined by a doctor appointed by the British consulate on the island.

Uncertain Future Regarding Imprisonment

It remains unclear if Sandiford will serve additional prison time upon her return to the UK. Indonesia’s deputy minister for immigration and correctional coordination, I Nyoman Gede Surya Mataram, commented:

“In England, she will remain in prison.”

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has not provided clear information about whether she will be incarcerated again.

Sandiford’s Perspective

Sandiford has previously expressed gratitude for being given a “second chance” at life with her family after spending more than a decade on death row.

Her case highlights the complexities of international agreements on prisoner repatriation and the health challenges inmates face after prolonged incarceration.

Author's summary: Lindsay Sandiford, freed from Bali's death row after 13 years, returns to the UK seriously ill, with her future imprisonment status still uncertain.

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Metro Metro — 2025-11-07

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