'We have always known Kalynda to be innocent': family

A young Sydney woman accused of trying to import drugs from China has returned home.

1417843335856.jpg
Sydney woman Kalynda Davis, who faced a possible death sentence for allegedly trying to import drugs from China, has returned home.

The 22-year-old was expected to face a Chinese court this week charged with trying to smuggle 75kg of methamphetamine (ice) to Australia with New Zealander Peter Gardner.

Ms Davis's family confirmed on Tuesday their daughter was back home.

"We have always known Kalynda to be innocent of these allegations," her parents said in a statement distributed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

"Her return home today is a clear statement of her innocence."

Ms Davis was reported missing to NSW police by a family member on November 5.

On the same day, Ms Davis, of Glenmore Park in Sydney's west, and Mr Gardner, who lived in Richmond on Sydney's northwest fringe, flew from Sydney to Guangzhou in China.

It is believed they were due to return on November 8 but were intercepted by Chinese authorities.

In China, drug trafficking convictions carry the death penalty.

Mr Gardner is believed to still be overseas and possibly facing the death penalty.

"To the family of Mr Peter Gardner, we will continue to pray for Peter and your family," Ms Davis's parents said.

"You are always in our thoughts."

Ms Davis's friend Blayke Tatafu was relieved to see her back in Australia.

"Everyone is surprised at the outcome, but not surprised that the truth came out the way it did," he told AAP.

"I always said I didn't think she could do something like this."

ABC News has reported the New Zealand consul-general has visited Mr Gardner at a detention centre to check on his wellbeing and has confirmed he has legal representation.

Ms Davis's parents thanked Australian authorities for negotiating with the Chinese government and authorities.

They also commended Chinese authorities for their "professional and honourable" investigation of the case.


Share

2 min read

Published

Updated


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Download our apps
SBS News
SBS Audio
SBS On Demand

Listen to our podcasts
An overview of the day's top stories from SBS News
Interviews and feature reports from SBS News
Your daily ten minute finance and business news wrap with SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves.
A daily five minute news wrap for English learners and people with disability
Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS
SBS World News

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service
Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world