[This letter was received from Lesley McCulloch via an email from the Acehnese human rights activists working for her release from Indonesian custody. It was written on September 27.]

Those of you who know me personally can confirm I am not often lost for words. But right now, I am. I hear of the tremendous campaign to secure the release of Joy-Lee Sadler and I. And I want to say "thank you", but this seems so inadequate.

In the past few days, I received news that a legal team is being put together in Jakarta to work with the fantastic local LBH [Indonesian Legal Aid Institute] lawyers. News of all this effort around the world is certainly a source of strength through these difficult times. But I am constantly troubled by the thought that thousands of Acehnese are being held in cells in much worse conditions than I, perhaps suffering physical abuse, and with none of the hope of a favourable outcome I have.

I appreciate the concerns and media attention on my case. But I ask you to see my case only as a vehicle to highlight the injustice faced by the Acehnese daily.

The faces of fellow prisoners I have met as they progress through this legal system will haunt me forever. Their lack of hope and feelings of despair distress me.

From my position in police custody, I can do very little to help the Acehnese right now. I think of the thousands who have died, disappeared and been tortured, those whose lives have been ruined in other ways, in the destruction of Acehnese society and economy that continues to take place before our eyes. Please appeal for justice not only in my case, but for all Acehnese. We are all equal and deserving of the same attention and support.

I know you are already doing this. But it makes me feel better to write, and I know you will understand. I owe so many so much; thank you.

In peace and solidarity, Dr Lesley Jane McCulloch