Even though Charles Sobhraj is believed to have killed at least 20 people across several countries in the 1970s, the notorious French serial killer was released from prison in Nepal on Friday after having served 19 years of his life sentence. This news has left many people outraged and wondering why someone like Sobhraj would be given such a lenient punishment for his crimes.
Sobhraj was arrested in 2003 after he was found guilty of killing two American and Canadian backpackers in 1975. He is believed to have killed at least 20 more people across Afghanistan, India, Thailand, Turkey, Nepal, Iran, and Hong Kong during the 1970s as well. His victims were usually travelers or vagabonds who he would lure with promises of drugs or money before poisoning them or strangling them with a scarf. In some cases, he also allegedly robbed his victims before disposing of their bodies in various locations.
Sobhraj’s release was ordered by the Supreme Court because of poor health, and good behavior, and has served more than 75% of his sentence – which in Nepal is 20 years. According to court documents, Sobhraj suffers from heart disease and other ailments due to his old age. Despite objections from prosecutors and victims’ families about releasing him early due to health reasons, the court concluded that “it is better to release him from jail rather than keep him there till death” because if he died in jail “it will not serve any purpose.”
The news of Sobhraj’s release has caused a great deal of controversy amongst those wanting justice for the victims and their families who were left behind following his murderous spree throughout the 70s. While justice may never truly be served for those affected by this killer’s actions, many are questioning why he was given such leniency when so many others convicted for similar crimes have faced much harsher punishments or even execution for their actions. It remains unclear what lies ahead for Sobrhaaj now that he has been released but one thing is certain – this case will continue to stir up debate amongst those seeking justice until its conclusion is complete.
