Fergie's Tech Blog

China: Zhao Yan Tried Quickly in Closed Door Session, Without Witnesses

Via Reporters sans Frontières.

The way New York Times researcher Zhao Yan was tried today [16 June 2006] in Beijing on charges of divulging state secrets and fraud - behind closed doors, in just a few hours, without witnesses being questioned and with just documents being read out - was “disgraceful”, Reporters Without Borders said.

Zhao’s lawyer, Mo Shaoping, told Reporters Without Borders that the trial, held before the Beijing People’s Intermediate Court No. 2, was over. “The court followed the formal procedure” but had not yet given its verdict, he said. Although no witnesses were questioned, Zhao was present and was able to speak, pleading not guilty, he said. Another defence lawyer said Zhao appeared to be in better health than during his first few months in detention.

posted by Fergie @ 6/18/2006 12:32:00 PM