Serge Atlaoui, French National, Set for Return Home from Indonesian Prison

A French citizen who has spent nearly two decades on death row in Indonesia is preparing to return to France, as confirmed by officials from the Indonesian prison system. Serge Atlaoui, sentenced in 2007 for drug-related offenses, has consistently asserted his innocence throughout his time in custody.

Atlaoui's legal troubles began in 2005 when he was arrested for his alleged involvement in the production of MDMA, a psychedelic drug, in a factory near Jakarta. His defense team argues that he was unaware of the drug activities and was merely working as a welder at the site.

After years of diplomatic pressure from Paris, Atlaoui received a reprieve from the death penalty in 2015. In December 2024, he formally requested the Indonesian authorities to allow him to serve the remainder of his sentence in France, citing his deteriorating health.

At the age of 61, Atlaoui has been diagnosed with cancer, and according to reports, he has been receiving weekly medical treatment. On January 24, an agreement was reached between Jakarta and Paris permitting his transfer on humanitarian grounds due to his illness.

On the day of his departure, Atlaoui was escorted from Salemba prison in Jakarta to the airport, where he planned to board a flight to Paris. His lawyer indicated that upon arrival in France, Atlaoui would likely be presented to prosecutors and could face detention while awaiting a decision regarding the adaptation of his sentence.

Atlaoui's case highlights the harsh realities of Indonesia's strict drug laws, which are among the most severe globally. In recent years, there have been instances of foreign prisoners being repatriated to their home countries to serve their sentences, reflecting a shift in policy by Indonesian authorities.

For example, in December 2024, the remaining members of the "Bali Nine" drug ring were returned to Australia at the request of the Australian government. Additionally, Filipina inmate Mary Jane Veloso was reunited with her family after being on death row in Indonesia for nearly 15 years.

The ongoing changes in Indonesia's approach to foreign inmates may signify a broader trend towards reforming its penal system, particularly regarding drug-related offenses. As Atlaoui prepares for his return, he reflects on his long ordeal and the challenging journey that lies ahead.