‘I didn’t understand consequence’ of my actions, says paroled drug mule Michaella McCollum

Michaella McCollum, the drug mule from Co Tyrone released from prison in Peru last week, has insisted she is a good person who who “didn’t understand the consequences of a bad decision”.

In an interview in Peru last night, she did acknowledge the damage the drugs could have on others. However, she also revealed the impact of her action on her own life.

McCollum and Melissa Reid, from Scotland, were imprisoned in 2013 for six years and eight months after admitting trying to smuggle cocaine worth £1.5m from Peru to Spain. McCollum was freed on parole last Thursday after serving more than two years. It is anticipated she will have to remain in Peru for a considerable period as part of her parole conditions.