Bali Bombing Convict Could Soon Be Released from Jail

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Umar Patek, who has been convicted for acts of terrorism for his role in the Bali bombing in 2002, will reportedly be released soon after receiving a reduced prison sentence under the Independence Day remission on August 17.

According to Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly, the exoneration was issued under the recommendation of the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT). 

"In terms of provisions, there has been a recommendation from the BNPT, as in maintaining good behavior, being loyal to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia," Yasonna said at the Ayana Mid Plaza Hotel, Tuesday, August 23.

Moreover, Yasonna said that there were indeed objections from several people regarding the granting of this remission to Umar. He assures that the government is listening to all suggestions. 

"We know there are objections, we are still waiting for another letter, I don't need to mention which institution it will be from but we will see. But we will consider all the existing inputs, such as having him participate in a deradicalization program,” Yasonna added. 

Umar Patek was one of several people involved in the Bali bombing on October 12, 2002, which killed 202 people. The terrorist attack was carried out by Jemaah Islamiyah, a militant group in Southeast Asia with links to Al-Qaeda. This tragic moment in Indonesia’s history mostly killed foreign tourists.

Umar Patek became a fugitive before he was caught in Pakistan in 2011. He was eventually sentenced to 20 years in prison a year later.

DEWI NURITA 

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