The remaining five of the Bali Nine prisoners have been returned to Australia after serving nearly 20 years in Indonesian jails after they caught attempting to smuggle 8.3 kgs of heroin into Australia in 2005.
Si Yi Chen, 39, Michael Czugaj, 38, Matthew Norman, 38, Scott Rush, 39, and Martin Stephens, 48 touched down in Australia on Sunday on commercial flights and will not face future imprisonment in Australia.
The arrangement has not been described as a clemency deal, and Australia does not have a prisoner transfer agreement with Indonesia.
Anthony Albanese confirmed the transfer in a statement shared on Sunday.
“The five men committed serious offences, serving over 19 years in prison in Indonesia,” he said.
“We would like to convey our deep appreciation to the Government of Indonesia for its co-operation to facilitate the men’s return to Australia on humanitarian grounds.
Bali Nine members Scott Rush, Matthew Norman, Si-Yi Chen, Martin Stephens, and Michael Czugaj. Picture: Supplied
“This reflects the strong bilateral relationship and mutual respect between Indonesia and Australia. The Australian Government has consistently advocated for the men and provided consular support to them and their families.
“The men will have the opportunity to continue their personal rehabilitation and reintegration in Australia.
“We ask that the media respect the privacy of the men and their families at this time.”
It’s understood the Australian government has provided temporary accommodation for the former prisoners to ensure they are able to access medical and other support services.
The arrangement was struck after years of advocacy by Mr Albanese, who recently broached the topic with Indonesian Prime Minister Prabowo Subianto at the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Lima on November 15.
More to come