The British government is in early discussions with Indonesia about repatriating Reynhard Sinaga, the most prolific rapist in UK history.
Sinaga, 41, was convicted in 2020 of sexually assaulting 48 men in Manchester. He lured his victims from bars and clubs to his apartment, where he drugged and raped them.
He was sentenced to at least 30 years in prison for 159 offenses committed between January 2015 and May 2017.
Indonesia’s Senior Minister for Law and Human Rights, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, confirmed on Thursday that talks with the British government had begun, though they are still in the early stages.
“The mechanism for repatriation will be determined later,” Yusril said. “It could involve a prisoner transfer or an exchange with a British prisoner jailed in Indonesia.”
He emphasized Indonesia’s responsibility to its citizens, stating, “No matter how serious the crime, the country has an obligation to defend its citizen. However, this will not be easy, and many aspects must be negotiated with the British government.”
The British embassy in Indonesia has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Indonesia is also exploring options to repatriate Riduan Isamuddin, also known as Hambali, who is accused of involvement in several deadly attacks, including the 2002 Bali bombings.
Under British law, Sinaga can only apply for leniency after serving 30 years in prison, Yusril noted.
Sinaga’s family has met with Indonesian officials to request his repatriation. If approved, he would be placed in a maximum-security prison in Indonesia. “Otherwise, he could pose new risks,” Yusril added.
Sinaga, who has lived in the UK since 2007, preyed on young men who appeared intoxicated or vulnerable, sedating them before assaulting them.
