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Convictions ‘only first step in right direction’

THE CRIMINAL COURT’S conviction of 62 defendants, including a senior Army officer and local administrative officials, in Thailand’s biggest human-trafficking case, was regarded by the international community as a momentous and significant step for the country to combat the illicit trade, although more needs to be done.

The convictions demonstrated Thailand’s willingness to hold to account government officials who committed these heinous crimes, said US Embassy spokesperson Steve Castonguay. “We hope the case will catalyse further systemic changes by the Thai government to eliminate human trafficking,” he said.

http://www.nation...l/30321339