Australians Angered at Bali Bomb Maker Releases on Parole
- VIVAnews/ Muhamad Solihin
VIVA – Umar Patek, one of the Bali I bombers in 2022, was conditionally released from an Indonesian prison on December 7, 2022, despite opposition from Australia whose citizens were the biggest victims of the terror attack. Previously, Patek was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2012 for his involvement.
Umar Patek's parole has also been recommended by the National Counter Terrorism Agency (BNPT) and Special Detachment 88 (Densus 88) after he stated that he would be loyal to Indonesia and no longer radicalized.
It is known that Patek was a member of an Al-Qaeda-linked group that carried out the blast at a resort bar and nightclub which claimed the lives of 202 people, including 88 Australians. Indonesian authorities say he is eligible for release and no longer poses a threat.
Patek is the man who made the bomb. Rika Aprianti of the Indonesian Ministry of Law and Human Rights told AFP, "As of today, Patek has his status changed to be under the supervision of the Surabaya penitentiary."
Referring to the conditions of Patek's release, she added that he will be required to undergo a training program until 2030 and any violation will revoke his parole. She also said that Patek had pledged allegiance to the state.
Asisten Menteri Luar Negeri Australia Tim Watts (tengah) membawa karangan bunga dalam upacara peringatan 20 tahun bom Bali, 20 Oktober 2022.
- AFPPIX.
Officials have claimed that the extremist has shown changes after undergoing a deradicalization program. During his trial in 2012, he showed remorse which later made the officials release them.
Indonesia has previously ended prison sentences for some prisoners who have served most of their sentences or undergone rehabilitation programs.
However, this was not well received by the country of Australia. The decision has been criticized by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. He said that he feels disgusted by Patek's actions and said that his early release would relieve the trauma and distress of his grieving family.
The Australian government has repeatedly made representations to the Indonesian government about Patek's early release and will continue to contact Indonesian authorities to ensure Patek continues to be supervised.
