Drugs mule Melissa Reid released from Peru jail

Reid is believed to be flying home to the UK Credit: Reuters

Convicted drug smuggler Melissa Reid was photographed at Lima airport on Tuesday evening after being released from prison in Peru.

The 22-year-old, jailed alongside Michaella McCollum in 2013 for attempting to smuggle £1.5 million worth of cocaine from Peru to Spain, was pictured alongside her father as she prepared to travel back to the UK.

Last month, a judge in Lima granted an order to expel Reid, from Lenzie, East Dunbartonshire, as she met the legal requirements for released.

According to reports, the release process has now been completed.

McCollum, 23, was freed in March under new legislation but required to remain on parole in the south American country.

It is understood Reid will be able to return to the UK as a free woman.

Reid and McCollum were caught at Lima Airport trying to board a flight with 24lb (11kg) of cocaine in food packets hidden in their luggage.

They claimed they were forced into carrying the drugs, but pleaded guilty to the charges and were sentenced to six years and eight months.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: "We continue to provide assistance to Melissa Reid and remain in contact with her family and local authorities".