Trial of pregnant Briton on death row brought forward
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A pregnant British woman who faces execution by firing squad if she is convicted of drug smuggling is due to stand trial in Laos today. Lawyers from the charity Reprieve were battling yesterday to get access to Samantha Orobator, 20, in the notorious Phong Thong jail in the capital, Vientiane, before her trial begins.
The Laotian authorities have already breached international consular agreements by failing to inform the British Government of her arrest in August last year, claiming they did not have access to a fax machine. Now Reprieve claims they have brought forward her trial by up to a year specifically to deny her legal representation.
Reprieve's director, Clive Stafford Smith, called it a "farce" and a "show trial". Anna Morris, a lawyer from Reprieve, flew to Laos yesterday after securing an appointment with Ms Orobator tomorrow, only to be told that the authorities intended to open proceedings this morning.
Nigerian-born Ms Orobator, of south London, was arrested at Wattay Airport, allegedly carrying 680g of heroin. Smuggling more than 500g carries a mandatory death sentence in Laos.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments