Maryland Man Released From Myanmar Returns to US Soil

A pro-democracy activist from Maryland has arrived in the United States after being released from prison by Myanmar's ruling military junta.

Nyi Nyi Aung was reunited with loved ones Friday afternoon at Washington Dulles International Airport. He was freed Thursday, a month after a court sentenced him to three years in prison with hard labor.

Aung, 40, also known as Kyaw Zaw Lwin, was arrested when he arrived at Yangon's international airport Sept. 3 and was accused of plotting to stir political unrest. He denied the charge.

The New Light of Myanmar newspaper, a mouthpiece for the junta, said the government pardoned and deported Aung after giving "special consideration to bilateral friendship" after the U.S. State Department requested his release.
 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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