The five remaining members of the Bali Nine sentenced to life imprisonment for drug smuggling have returned to Australia.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed their arrival on Sunday afternoon, marking the end of nearly 20 years of incarceration.
“These Australians served over 19 years in prison. It was time for them to come home,” he said.
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Scott Rush, Matthew Norman, Si-Yi Chen, Martin Stephens, and Michael Czugaj were released on humanitarian grounds, following a deal with the Indonesian government.
Their life sentences were commuted with the condition they continue rehabilitation in Australia. However, they are banned from returning to Indonesia.
In a joint statement, the men and their families expressed gratitude to Indonesia’s president, Prabowo Subianto, and Australian officials who advocated for their return.
“We are relieved and happy to be home and look forward to reintegrating into society,” said in the statement.
“The men and their families thank all those who have assisted them to reach this point. In particular, they thank their Indonesian lawyers, friends in Indonesia, academics and others in Australia, and numerous friends in Australia. This support has been essential and invaluable.”
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