Encep Nurjaman (also known as Riduan Isomuddin or Hambali) is expected to face a United States (US) military trial at Guantanamo Bay in relation to his alleged role in the 2002 Bali bombings and the 2003 J.W. Marriott Hotel bombing in Jakarta. The Australian Government is working closely with US authorities to support Australians affected by these attacks ahead of the trial proceedings.

The Office of the Chief Prosecutor for Military Commissions within the US Department of War is seeking to identify potential witnesses, including survivors and family members of victims, who may be willing to provide evidence before the Tribunal. Registration of interest does not guarantee selection as a witness, but will assist US authorities in identifying individuals who may wish to participate. Registration of those who wish to be considered as a potential witness must be received no later than COB 20 August 2026 (AEST).

Australian survivors, next of kin of victims, and other Australians who may have been directly affected by or witnessed the attacks or their aftermath are invited to register their interest through the Australian Federal Police (AFP) website [AFP 2026 registration]. This is a renewal of a 2023 Register of Interest established for Australian survivors and next of kin of victims.

The AFP Registration of Interest process will enable affected Australians to:

• indicate interest in being considered by US authorities as a potential witness in the proceedings
• receive updates on the US Military Tribunal proceedings from relevant US authorities
• indicate interest in attending proceedings at Guantanamo Bay, or viewing proceedings through arrangements that may be made available by US authorities
• update contact details and engagement preferences to ensure information can be provided in a timely manner.

The Australian Government recognises that survivors, families and others affected by the attacks may have different needs, expectations and preferences for engagement. Individual circumstances may have changed over time, and some individuals may wish to establish or renew contact regarding these proceedings.

The Australian Government further recognises that the ongoing proceedings and associated media reporting may cause distress or strong emotions for many people. Participation in the registration process is entirely voluntary, and we respect the decision of those who choose not to engage.

The Australian Government through the AFP and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will continue to work with US authorities to ensure affected Australians can access appropriate information and, where they wish, engage with the trial process.

We acknowledge this may be a difficult time for those affected. For 24 hour support, please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636.

Please contact Bali2002updates@afp.gov.au for any further information regarding this process.