Arrest threat over torture allegations

Thai authorities have threatened to arrest Amnesty International speakers who were set to hold a news conference to release a report detailing allegations of torture.

Beatings, suffocation by plastic bags and electric shocks are among the torture methods used by Thai soldiers and police under the military government, according to the report.

Just before the newsconference began, officials fromThailand’sMinistryof Labour warned Amnesty that the speakers set to talk about the report did not possess work permits and risked arrest. Amnesty cancelled the event.

Government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd defended the Ministry of Labour’s actions by saying no matter which organisation the speakers are from, they must comply with the law. He also denied any allegations of torture.