British grandmother accused of drug smuggling loses appeal against Indonesian death sentence

A British woman who was caught smuggling 4.8kg of cocaine into Bali last May has lost her appeal against the death sentence.

prison

by Jessica Anais Rach |
Published on

Gloucestershire-based Lindsay Sandiford was sentenced to death by firing squad in January of this year, after Indonesian authorities claimed she was at the centre of a drug smuggling ring.

Three other Britons were also arrested, after the drugs were found in the lining of Sandiford’s suitcase as she travelled from Thai capital Bangkok to Bali last year

The 56-year-old denies the allegations, claiming that she was coerced into transporting the drugs in order to protect her children who were under threat.

Lindsay Sandiford has lost her appeal against the death penalty
Lindsay Sandiford has lost her appeal against the death penalty

But Sandiford’s plea was rejected, and she was sentenced to death in January.

Following the loss of her initial appeal in Bali’s Denpasar district court, the grandmother reapplied to the Supreme Court in Jakarta.

Today, court spokesman Ridwan Mansur confirmed that her appeal had been unanimously rejected by a three-judge panel.

Sandiford can still apply for a judicial review of the case, before appealing for a presidential pardon under Indonesian law.

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesman said:

‘We are aware that Lindsay Sandiford's appeal to the Indonesian Supreme Court has been denied.

An narcotics policeman holds the gift wrapped box containing nearly 5kgs of cocaine

‘In line with our strong opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances, we will consider how to support any application for Judicial Review or clemency that Lindsay Sandiford chooses to make.

‘We will continue to provide consular assistance to Lindsay Sandiford and her family at this difficult time.’

Three other Britons and an Indian national connected to the case were jailed for terms ranging from one to six years.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us