Arno Immelman - Cambodia

Last updated: 09 September 2011

Arno Immelman, a 19 year old young man from South Africa, was recently arrested by the Laos police. He was reportedly arrested after he was found sleeping in the Cambodian Embassy. The Cambodian Embassy did not press any charges against Arno. Arno was involved in a humanitarian programme, which facilitates English training in Thailand and he had to visit Laos every three months to renew his visa.

Arno was detained for four weeks without being formally charged or even explained the reasons for his arrest. Throughout this time he did not receive any legal assistance.

Although the South African Embassy was informed of Arno’s arrest, he was not allowed to maintain regular contact with his Embassy. It was reported that the police requested a significant bribe in turn for his release.
Following representations made by the South African Embassy, supported by letters from the Cambodian Embassy in Laos, and with the assistance of Fair Trials International and other supporters, the Laos Foreign Ministry instructed the police to release Arno without charge. The South African authorities provided excellent consular support and through diplomatic support and assistance, were able to end Arno’s ordeal.