HR Activist in Sothern Border Provinces Freed After Being in Held in Official Custody Invoking Martial Law

Press Release Human Rights Activist in Sothern Border Provinces Freed After Being in Held in Official Custody Invoking Martial Law

On 24 September 2012, Mr. Thammarat Alilatae was released after having been detained by security officials invoking the 1914 Martial Law Act for five days since 21 September.  His relatives complained that Mr. Thammarat was simply invited and held in custody without being explained any reasons why he had become a suspect. During the inquiry, the officials simply referred to an incidence that took place since 2007. In that case, Mr. Thammarat was arrested and prosecuted. Later on, he was granted bail and has been determined to prove his innocence through the justice system.

After being temporarily released by the Court of Lower Instances, Mr. Thammarat and former defendants and other defendants in security-related cases who have been granted bail have formed themselves the “Group for Fellow Defendants” to conduct activities for social cause and to promote human rights as well as to provide assistance to families of those affected by the enforcement of special laws. They try to help affected people to have access to the justice process and have garnered acceptance from the public. Collaborations have been made by the group and various parties including governmental and private agencies. He hopes that his group’s human rights and nonviolent work will help to restore belief and faith in the justice process and democratic rule among local people.

For more information, please contact: Ms. Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, CrCF, Director, phone 02-6934939