Judgement by the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia
Media release
26 July 2010
Australia welcomes the judgement handed down today, 26 July, in the case of Kaing Guek Eav (known as Duch), the former head of the infamous Tuol Sleng security centre.
He was found guilty in the Trial Chamber of the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) of crimes against humanity and war crimes.
Today's judgement and the preceding trial offers some measure of justice to those who suffered as a result of the crimes perpetrated at the Tuol Sleng security centre, and for all who experienced the brutality of the Khmer Rouge.
Approximately 15,000 Cambodians are believed to have been killed following their arrival at Tuol Sleng between 1975 and 1979. A number of foreign nationals, including two Australians, David Scott and Ronald Dean, are also believed to have been killed there.
Cambodian support for the ECCC has been remarkable. Over 31,000 Cambodians attended the public hearings in this first case. Many more have followed the trial proceedings on television, radio and the internet.
Australia has contributed over $14 million towards the work of the ECCC, and has supported the trial of Khmer Rouge leaders since Cambodia sought UN assistance in 1997 to establish a tribunal to prosecute the senior leaders of the Khmer Rouge.
Australia played a central role in regional and international efforts to bring a lasting peace to Cambodia, helping to bring an end to the civil war and establish democracy.
Media inquiries
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