The five” Bali Nine” drug band members have now returned home after about 20 years in Indonesian jail, according to Australia.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote on social press:” I am pleased to confirm that American people, Si Yi Chen, Michael Czugaj, Matthew Norman, Scott Rush and Martin Stephens have returned to Australia this day”.
He thanked Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto” for his kindness”.
The controversial case began in 2005 when Indonesia apprehended nine young Australians who were attempting to smuggle 8.3 kg ( 18lb ) of heroin out of Bali.
The eight men and one woman were arrested at an airport and hotel in Bali after a tip-off from Australian police.
The case made news worldwide when two of the gang’s ringleaders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran, were executed by firing squad in 2015 – sparking a row with Australia.
After the executions, Australia recalled its ambassador to Indonesia, although he returned to Jakarta five weeks later.
Another Bali Nine members received jail sentences of up to life.
The situation put a light on Indonesia’s tight drug regulations, some of the most demanding in the world.
One of the nine, Tan Duc Thanh Nguyen, died of tumor in 2018. Soon after, Renae Lawrence, next 41, the only lady among the party, had her word commuted after spending about 13 years in prison.
Australia’s government said of the five people’s return:” The males will have the opportunity to maintain their specific treatment and reconciliation in Australia”.
It expressed “deep understanding” to Indonesia for allowing them to returning home on humanitarian basis.
According to ABC, the males are essentially free to live in harmony with Australian society.