A British woman is facing the death penalty in Indonesia after being accused of attempting to smuggle cocaine worth an estimated £2.5 million into Bali. The 45-year-old was arrested at Ngurah Rai International Airport after customs officials discovered 3.3kg of the Class A drug concealed in the lining of her suitcase.
Airport Security Makes Shocking Discovery
Authorities became suspicious when the woman, who had flown from London via Dubai, appeared nervous during routine checks. X-ray scans revealed suspicious packages sewn into the fabric of her luggage, which later tested positive for cocaine.
Potential Death Sentence Looms
Indonesia has some of the world's strictest drug laws, with trafficking offences potentially carrying capital punishment. "This is a very serious case," said a customs spokesperson. "The quantity and method of concealment show clear intent to smuggle."
Defence Claims Ignorance
The woman's legal team maintains their client was unaware of the drugs, suggesting her suitcase may have been tampered with during transit. However, prosecutors argue the sophisticated concealment method indicates prior knowledge.
UK Government Responds
A Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed they are providing consular assistance but declined to comment further due to the ongoing legal proceedings. The case has drawn comparisons to the high-profile 2005 execution of Australian drug traffickers in Indonesia.
Tourists are being warned about Indonesia's zero-tolerance approach to drugs, with several foreigners currently on death row for similar offences. The woman remains in custody awaiting trial, which could begin within weeks.
