A French national, Tom Félix, has returned to France following his acquittal on drug trafficking charges in Malaysia, an ordeal he described as having “stolen 909 days of my life.” The 34-year-old former Veolia executive was met by family and friends at Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris.

Félix’s arrest occurred on August 9, 2023, as he was preparing to launch a restaurant on an island in northwestern Malaysia. He was taken into custody on suspicion of drug possession and trafficking.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival, Félix stated that the court’s verdict was “clear, unambiguous, unreserved.” He reiterated his innocence, emphasizing that he had never engaged in drug trafficking. Malaysia enforces stringent drug laws, and a conviction on such charges could have led to the death penalty.

The High Criminal Court of Alor Setar, located approximately 500 kilometers northwest of the capital Kuala Lumpur, delivered the acquittal on Tuesday. Félix recounted the difficulties faced during his detention, describing mistreatment in police custody and prison facilities. He mentioned that other inmates endure daily harsh punishments and expressed solidarity with those still incarcerated.

His legal counsel, Blandine Gentil, informed AFP that Félix had awaited a trial for over three years. Gentil attributed the acquittal to a lack of evidence against him. Following the resolution of the case, French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his “immense relief,” noting the reunion of Félix with his parents, whose belief in his innocence he had personally witnessed.