21-1-2025 (JAKARTA) Indonesia has initiated discussions regarding the potential repatriation of one of Southeast Asia’s most notorious terror suspects, Riduan Isamuddin, commonly known as Hambali, who has been held at the US detention facility in Guantanamo Bay for nearly two decades.
The Indonesian government’s surprising move comes as legal experts note that the statute of limitations on domestic cases against the former militant leader has expired, according to statements from the nation’s Law and Human Rights Minister.
Hambali, who gained infamy as the mastermind behind the devastating 2002 Bali bombings that claimed more than 200 lives, predominantly foreign tourists, has been incarcerated at the American military prison since 2006. His capture in Thailand in 2003 marked the end of a massive manhunt spanning multiple countries.
The former operational chief of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), once considered Southeast Asia’s most dangerous terrorist network, stands accused of orchestrating several high-profile attacks, including the 2003 bombing of Jakarta’s Marriott Hotel. Former US President George W. Bush once described him as “one of the world’s most lethal terrorists.”
Speaking to state news agency Antara, Law and Human Rights Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra emphasised the government’s responsibility towards its citizens, stating, “Regardless of his actions, Hambali remains an Indonesian national. We have an obligation to ensure his welfare.”
The Indonesian authorities’ previous attempts to question Hambali were consistently rebuffed by US officials. Notably, Washington has also linked him to the planning of the September 11 attacks, though his precise role remains unclear, as he has neither publicly admitted nor denied involvement in any of these attacks.
This potential repatriation bid emerges against the backdrop of JI’s declining influence in the region. Recent months have seen senior members announce the network’s dissolution, whilst Indonesian authorities consider offering amnesty to imprisoned members and parole to former leaders.
The American embassy in Jakarta has yet to comment on Indonesia’s proposed repatriation plan. However, there is precedent for such transfers, as evidenced by the US government’s repatriation of two Malaysian Guantanamo detainees last year, both of whom had admitted to war crimes charges.
