Death row gran Lindsay Sandiford 'flying home to UK today'

Death Row Grandmother Lindsay Sandiford Returns Home to the UK

After thirteen years imprisoned in Bali, Lindsay Sandiford, a 69-year-old British grandmother, is being repatriated to the United Kingdom. She and another British national are returning under an agreement between Indonesia and the UK.

Sandiford, who faced execution for drug smuggling, is scheduled to leave Bali this afternoon on a 20-hour flight with a short layover before landing at Heathrow Airport. Her supporters describe her as being seriously ill and recently examined by a doctor from the British consulate.

“I’ve been given a second chance at life with my family in England,”

Sandiford reportedly said through a pastor who has long supported her case.

Support from Campaigners and Officials

Rev. Christie Buckingham, a pastor from Bayside Church in Melbourne and long-time advocate for Sandiford, is currently in Indonesia to assist with her return. Expressing gratitude to officials who made the repatriation possible, she highlighted the compassion shown throughout the process.

“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.”

Health and Humanitarian Considerations

According to Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Indonesia’s senior minister for legal affairs, Sandiford’s health condition was a significant factor in authorizing her return. The decision marks the end of a long campaign by supporters advocating for her release on humanitarian grounds.

Author’s Summary: Lindsay Sandiford, once sentenced to death in Indonesia, is finally returning to the UK after 13 years, her health and compassion from officials leading to a long-awaited reunion with family.

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Metro.co.uk Metro.co.uk — 2025-11-06

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