I am pleased by the news that the former Khmer Rouge leader Sam
Bith, who was implicated in the killing of Australian backpacker
David Wilson, has been arrested by the Cambodian authorities.
Australia has continued to urge the Cambodian authorities to bring
to justice the last of the three Khmer generals accused of involvement
in David Wilson's death in Cambodia in 1994.
On a number of occasions, including during my visit to Cambodia
in May 2000, I have pressed Cambodian leaders to ensure that Sam
Bith was brought before the courts.
The Immigration Minister Mr Ruddock also recently made representations
to this effect and it has been an on-going priority for the Australian
Embassy in Phnom Penh.
My Department has advised David Wilson's family about this development
in the long-running follow-up to this tragic case.
Media enquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / Julie
McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555
