Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra signed the agreement with British Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs Yvette Cooper, who attended virtually and was represented by UK Ambassador to Indonesia Dominic Jermey.
At a press conference following the signing, Mahendra announced that Indonesia had agreed to repatriate the two prisoners—Lindsay June Sandiford (68) and Shahab Shahabadi (35)—both convicted on drug-related charges, citing empathy and respect for human rights.
Sandiford, who has been on death row at Kerobokan Prison in Bali since May 2012, suffers from diabetes and hypertension, with reports indicating a decline in her overall health.
Shahabadi, serving a life sentence at a maximum-security facility on Nusakambangan Island since June 2014, has been diagnosed with a subcutaneous skin condition and a mental disorder.
Mahendra described the transfer as a reflection of the shared commitment between Indonesia and the UK to uphold humanitarian and human rights principles.
He noted that the process mirrors previous repatriations involving Filipino, French, and Australian inmates.
“The mechanism involves exchanging official documents, verifying the prisoners’ legal status and health condition, and signing an agreement between both governments before the transfer takes place,” he explained.
The transfer is expected to proceed following a technical meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 23.
Mahendra confirmed that the Indonesian Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, along with the Attorney General’s Office, has been tasked with formally handing over Sandiford and Shahabadi to UK authorities.
Related news: Police hunt 15 inmates after escape from Nabire prison
Related news: Indonesia plans to set up supermax prison on remote island
Translator: Agatha O, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
