An Indonesian Citizen Face Death Penalty in Ethiopia

Jakarta, MINA – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemlu RI) has confirmed that it is providing legal assistance to Linda Yuliana (28), an Indonesian citizen from Majalengka, West Java, who is currently facing the death penalty in Ethiopia on charges of drug trafficking.

Judha Nugraha, Director of the Protection of Indonesian Citizens and Indonesian Legal Entities at Kemlu RI, stated that the Indonesian mission in Ethiopia has been providing consular assistance to Linda.

“We are also offering legal support to ensure that she receives her full rights within the local legal system,” Judha said during a media briefing in Jakarta on Thursday.

Linda Yuliana, a resident of Liangjulang Village, Kadipaten District, Majalengka Regency, was arrested at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa in June 2024 on suspicion of carrying cocaine.

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Linda’s mother, Dede Sumiati (66), explained that her daughter went to Ethiopia after being offered a job at a gold smelting facility.

However, after spending a week in Ethiopia, Linda was asked by an acquaintance she met at the hotel to deliver a bag containing chocolates to Laos.

Upon inspection at the airport, cocaine was found inside the bag. “Linda immediately called us in tears. She said she knew nothing about it and felt set up. I am convinced my daughter is innocent,” said Dede Sumiati.

Kemlu RI emphasized its commitment to continue monitoring and providing legal assistance to Linda throughout the judicial process in Ethiopia to ensure her rights are fully upheld in accordance with the local legal system.

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This case highlights the importance of caution for Indonesian citizens accepting job offers abroad, particularly those involving the shipment of goods, in order to avoid the risk of becoming unknowingly involved in illegal activities. []

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)

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