A Japanese journalist was preparing to leave Jordan for home Wednesday, following his pardon and release from prison after being convicted of causing the death of an airport security official in an explosion at Amman airport in May.

Hiroki Gomi, 36, an employee of the Mainichi Shimbun, reiterated his apology to the relatives of the deceased security official in a news conference before heading for the airport. He was scheduled to fly to Japan via London.

Gomi was released Tuesday following a special pardon from Jordan's King Abdullah II. He was sentenced on June 1 to 18 months in prison by a military tribunal for negligence resulting in death and injuries.

Mainichi Shimbun officials said Gomi is in good health following his release after 47 days in custody.