Foreign Office travel advice: New warning for Indonesia amid 'free sample drugs' in Bali - and Brits 'given significant prison sentences'
The Foreign Office has issued a new travel warning for Indonesia as Brits have been “given significant prison sentences”.
The Foreign Office updated its advice on the risks related to drugs, and of criminal gangs coercing people to carry drugs across borders. It warns: “Do not get involved with illegal drugs. Possession, trafficking and manufacture of any illegal drugs are serious offences in Indonesia.
“The Indonesian authorities have a zero-tolerance policy and those caught face lengthy prison sentences or a death penalty, usually after a protracted and expensive legal process. British nationals have been caught and given significant prison sentences for drug offences in Indonesia. Criminal gangs in the UK and elsewhere are known to coerce people into carrying drugs across borders. Do not allow yourself to be persuaded.”
It adds: “If you are detained by the police, it is important to be aware of your rights. To assist you, we have a guide to the legal and detention systems in Indonesia. The British Embassy strongly encourages adherence to local laws and regulations. Any payments requested after arrest, that you agree to, are at your own discretion.”
The Foreign Office warns that drugs may be handed out “as free samples” in some areas including Jakarta and Bali. It warns: “Police often raid venues (particularly in Bali) known to be frequented by foreigners. You may have to take a urine or blood test if there is a reasonable suspicion that drugs have been used, and you will be arrested if the test is positive.”