Burmese nationals based in the USA, who oppose the Thai government’s intention to prosecute two Arakanese nationals in the case of two British citizens murdered on the Thai island of Koh Tao, have decided to demonstrate in front of Thai Consulate General’s office in New York on 17th October. The demonstrators are also expected to demand that the real culprits are punished.
Ko Khaing Ba Khine, an organizer of the programme, said they would assemble there at 2pm to demand justice for the accused Burmese youths from Arakan State who were working in Thailand at the time.
The youths, Maung Zaw Lin and Maung Win Zaw Tun who lived on Koh Tao are being charged with the robbery, rape and murder of the two Britons. Hannah Witheridge, 23 and David Miller, 25.
The demonstrators argue that the accused Arakanese youths have been made scapegoats in the case and that they are not the real culprits. They want to persuade the government in Bangkok to review the case.
Ko Khaing Ba Khine said: “We want the truth to prevail. We are determined to bring the matter to Thai government’s notice for appropriate actions.”
He said that if anyone wanted to join the protest they can contact: Khaing Ba Khine (3474881100), Ko Tint Wai (3477852060), Ko Han Htun (7169309891) or Ko Zaw Zaw Htun (6462033338).
The address of Thai Consulate General’s office in New York is 351 East 52nd St, NY 10022.
