Report: Former UK Ambassador to Myanmar Detained in Yangon
The Facts
Vicky Bowman, UK ambassador to Myanmar from 2002-2006, was reportedly arrested on Wed. along with her husband, artist and former political prisoner Ko Htein Lin, in Yangon.
On Thurs., Myanmar's military junta stated that Bowman violated the country's Immigration Act by failing to apply for a change of address on her visa. Her husband was charged with encouraging her to break the law by moving to his home. A hearing has been set for Sept. 6.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
With the international community banding together to condemn its violent dictatorship, the junta is lashing out by targeting innocent foreign nationals. Not only should Bowman and her husband be released, but so should the thousands of political prisoners currently held for speaking out against their oppressors.
Establishment-critical narrative
Myanmar's immigration laws clearly state that authorities can detain foreigners who fail to reside at the address shown on their visa. This has nothing to do with politics; Bowman and her husband were both arrested for specific violations of the country's Immigration Act.