Lisa Stocker and Jon Collyer, British individuals convicted in a cocaine smuggling case in Bali, have been released from prison after serving time for their crime. The duo, along with their accomplice Phineas Float, were initially apprehensive about facing Indonesia’s stringent drug laws, which could have led to severe penalties, including execution. However, they were granted early release just four months into their one-year prison sentence for their involvement in a £300,000 cocaine smuggling operation.
Their prison terms were further reduced under special provisions that allow for sentence reductions during the Christmas season and national holidays, enabling them to depart from Bali to the UK. The couple, who avoided the death penalty, were seen checking in for their flight home, potentially in business class with seats costing around £2,000 each. Their swift release surprised many due to Indonesia’s tough stance on drug offenses, making their return a timely Christmas gift.
Stocker and Collyer were caught attempting to transport nearly a kilogram of cocaine concealed in packets of Angel Delight into Bali, triggering their arrest at the airport following a luggage scan. Despite facing serious charges, they cooperated with the authorities, leading to the arrest of their accomplice Float, who was later deported after serving time in detention.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirmed the safe return of the three British nationals from Indonesia back to the UK. This development follows the recent release of another British drug convict, Lindsay Sandiford, who spent over a decade on death row in Bali before being freed. Sandiford’s release, facilitated through diplomatic efforts, signified a positive outcome for British nationals facing drug-related charges abroad.
Upon their return, it remains uncertain whether Sandiford will be immediately released or detained in the UK, as Indonesian officials suggest she may still serve prison time in Britain. The agreement reached between the UK and Indonesian authorities will determine the course of her post-repatriation detention. The FCDO was contacted for inquiries regarding Stocker and Collyer’s repatriation status, but no official statement has been issued yet.
