KCNA on Aijalon Mahli Gomes trial

The KCNA issued its report on the trial of the follower of Robert Park (literally and figuratively) who also went on walkabout into the North:

A trial of Aijalon Mahli Gomes, male U.S. citizen, was held at a court of justice of the Central Court of the DPRK on Tuesday.

An examination was made of the hostile act committed against the Korean nation and the trespassing on the border of the DPRK against which an indictment was brought in and his guilt was confirmed according to the relevant articles of the criminal code of the DPRK at the trial. On this basis, the court sentenced him to eight years of hard labor and a fine of 70 million won.

The accused admitted all the facts which had been put under accusation.

The presence of representatives of the Swedish embassy here to witness the trial was allowed as an exception at the request of the Swedish side protecting the U.S. interests.

I'm a bit disturbed that the KCNA didn't mention that Mr Gomes went into the North to protest human rights abuses and demand that Dear Leader Kim Jong-il step down. I mean, how will the people know that's the real reason if the KCNA and the Rodong Shinmun don't print it. I think I shall fire off a letter to the editor to the Hamhung Herald or the Kaesong Crier to bring this matter to their attention.

In all seriousness, though, I do find it interesting (if it's true), that there is mention that the Swedes were there to protect US interests (which, presumably, would include protecting Mr Gomes's rights as best they can). I don't think they're in much of a position to let us know how much of a sham this trial with the foregone conclusion was.

See here and here for my more recent takes on the foolish and dangerous antics of Mr Gomes and Mr Park.