North Korea is putting two American tourists on trial for charges that sound like something out of a B-list cold war movie.
The official state news agency, the Korean Central News Agency, announced that Matthew Todd Miller and Jeffrey Edward Fowle were to face trial for “hostile acts,” FOX News and the AP reported.
“Their hostile acts were confirmed by evidence and their own testimonies,” a statement read.
According to the KCNA, Miller entered North Korea April 10 on a tourist visa, which he tore up in the airport, and shouted that he wished to seek asylum. The reason for his trip is unknown. Fowle, who entered the country as a tourist on April 29, was investigated for committing acts inconsistent with the purpose of a tourist visit. According to diplomatic sources, Fowle was detained for leaving a Bible in his hotel room. His family maintains that the trip was not for missionary purposes.
Since the United States does not maintain diplomatic ties with North Korea, all consular affairs are handled by the Swedish Embassy. The absence of direct ties will likely hinder attempts to release the two men.
After Miller’s arrest, the State Department updated its travel warning, noting that in the past 18 months, “North Korea detained several U.S. citizens who were part of organized tours. Do not assume that joining a group tour or use of a tour guide will prevent your arrest or detention by North Korean authorities.”
Better make alternate summer vacation plans.
