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Ethiopia sentences Swedish journalists to 11 years
Reporter Martin Schibbye and photographer Johan Persson were arrested in July after they entered the Ogaden province from Somalia's Puntland region with ONLF fighters. Judge Shemsu Sirgaga told the court, "The court has sentenced both defendants to 11 years. We have heard both cases ... and we believe this is an appropriate sentence." He said the convictions warranted a sentence of up to 14 and a half years, but noted good behavior on the part of the journalists. The prosecution had asked for 18 and a half years. The two Swedes had also been charged with terrorism but were acquitted in November on that count, as the court did not believe they were involved in carrying out any attacks. They did admit to crossing the border without a permit. Last week's guilty verdicts had sparked widespread anger in Swedish media and accusations the case was political. Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt said last week Sweden was very concerned about the judgment and the journalists should be freed as soon as possible. Posted by: ryuge 2011-12-27 |
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| http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=336043 |