Woman Released After 2016 Cyanide Coffee Murder Speaks Out
After serving eight years in prison, Jessica Wongso, known in the media as the "Iced Coffee Killer," has been released. Wongso was convicted for poisoning her friend Wayan Mirna Salihin's coffee with cyanide in 2016. The incident shocked many, but now Wongso is speaking out for the first time since her release.
Denies Being Close Friends with Victim
At a recent press conference, Wongso denied having a close relationship with Ms. Salihin, claiming they merely shared a country of origin rather than a strong bond. She stated that they met during college in Sydney but were not best friends. After graduation, Ms. Salihin returned to Indonesia while Wongso remained in Australia.
Refuses to Confirm Responsibility for Death
When questioned about whether she was responsible for her friend's death, Wongso avoided a direct response, saying there were many restrictions on what she could publicly reveal. She cryptically responded with "Maybe" when asked if someone else could have been to blame.
Details of the Incident Recalled
Wongso also spoke about the day of the poisoning, describing how she arrived early at the café where the coffee was ordered. She allegedly placed shopping bags on the table, blocking camera views, and then ordered drinks for Ms. Salihin and another friend. She explained her placement of the bags as a habitual act of fidgeting when bored.
"I just put it there, shuffle it and play with it. It really doesn't mean anything at all... just me being bored," she said.
She recalled that Ms. Salihin immediately noticed the coffee tasted strange and soon became ill, collapsing shortly after taking a sip. Ms. Salihin was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Sentence and Release Conditions
Jessica Wongso was sentenced to 20 years in prison following her conviction in 2018. However, she was released in 2024 under the condition that she remains in Jakarta until 2032. Despite the court's ruling, her recent statements maintain a certain ambiguity regarding her involvement.
Moving Forward
At her press event, Wongso expressed that she has forgiven everyone who wronged her during the ordeal. This case remains one of the most talked-about criminal cases involving a poisoning, capturing public attention across continents due to its chilling circumstances and courtroom drama.
