Bali drugs mule gran pictured back on UK soil after years on death row

Bali drug mule Lindsay Sandiford returns to the UK after years on death row

Lindsay Sandiford, 69, has returned to the United Kingdom after spending over a decade on death row in Indonesia. She had been convicted in 2013 for attempting to smuggle £1.6 million worth of cocaine into Bali.

Background and conviction

At the time of her arrest in 2012, Sandiford was 56. She later told investigators that she had been coerced by an international drug syndicate, which allegedly threatened to harm her family if she refused to cooperate. Despite her claims, she was sentenced to death by firing squad the following year.

Years in prison and release

Sandiford spent twelve years imprisoned under harsh conditions in Kerobokan Prison, often described as one of Indonesia’s most notorious facilities. Last month, she was granted release on humanitarian grounds following diplomatic negotiations.

Return to the UK

Following a 20-hour journey, including a layover, Sandiford arrived at London Heathrow Airport on a government-funded £600 flight — her first time on British soil in more than ten years. Reports say she is eager to reunite with her family and in need of urgent medical care after her long imprisonment.

“Doctors have assessed Lindsay and determined she's very unwell. She has spent 12 years in one of the worst prisons in the world and that has taken its toll on her. She's desperate to get home, she's been preparing for months. Before leaving prison she said a farewell to the other prisoners who have become like family to her.”

Author’s summary

After 12 harsh years on death row in Indonesia for drug smuggling, Lindsay Sandiford, 69, has returned to the UK seeking medical treatment and reunion with her family.

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The Mirror The Mirror — 2025-11-07

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