[Shangui]

(con't...)

Dozens of reporters, writers and academics have been ordered to turn themselves over to the military and a once vibrant press has been stifled. A number of those already in detention are being held incommunicado in unknown locations with no access to lawyers, courts or relatives.

While martial law stipulates that detainees can only be held for seven days before they must be charged, in the current climate of lawlessness, there is
concern by observers that arbitrary detention under the junta may be extended further.

A new twist on protests has arisen since the military is cracking down on protesters. Protesters, emulating “The Hunger Games,” are raising three fingers in silent protest. Military leaders are warning against this display and say they may still crack down on these silent protests.

Amnesty International has issued an action surrounding this crackdown. Join us in calling for those detained by the military to either be charged with a recognizably criminal offense or to be immediately and unconditionally released from detention.

Dr. Tyrell Haberkorn, Amnesty International USA Country Specialist for Thailand contributed to this post.