Indonesia defends executions of seven foreigners in drug smuggling

Jakarta, April 30: Indonesia has defended executions of seven foreign nationals in connection with drug smuggling case, media reported.

The execution drew huge criticism from Australia and Brazil.

Four Nigerians, two Australians, a Brazilian and an Indonesian were executed in a forest clearing near the prison, as family members held a candle-light vigil within earshot of the firing range.

Australia recalled its ambassador in protest at the midnight executions.

Brazil expressed "deep regret" at the execution of its national, who was mentally ill according to his family, and said it was weighing its next move.

Amnesty International condemned the executions saying they showed a "complete disregard for due process and human rights safeguards."

Fourteen people have now been put to death in Indonesia this year, and the government has announced plans for further executions this year.

A Filipina originally set to be executed was however, given an 11th hour reprieve after a woman, who allegedly tricked her into ferrying drugs to Indonesia, turned herself in to the police in the Philippines.

OneIndia News