New Zealand

Drug accused's lawyer prepares for worst

08:55 am on 9 January 2015

The lawyer for a Whanganui man being held on drug charges in Bali says he assumes the prosecutors will try to have his client executed.

Antony de Malmanche of New Zealand is escorted by customs security in Bali. Photo: AFP

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Antony de Malmanche was in a Denpasar holding cell after being arrested for allegedly trying to bring 1.7 kilograms of methamphetamine into Indonesia last month.

His lawyer Craig Tuck said his client was preyed on by criminals who saw him as an easy target.

Mr Tuck said Balinese police have not laid formal charges yet, but he was preparing for the worst.

"We're assuming he's been charged the maximum penalty which is the death penalty, that's the maximum penalty."

Mr Tuck said if Mr de Malmanche was charged with drug-smuggling the trial could take up to 10 months.