Bangkok court frees 14 student protesters but they still face trial over sedition cha

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Bangkok court frees 14 student protesters but they still face trial over sedition charges

PUBLISHED : Wednesday, 08 July, 2015, 1:23am
UPDATED : Wednesday, 08 July, 2015, 1:28am

Bangkok court frees 14 student protesters but they still face trial over sedition charges

Supporters from the New Democracy Movement hold pictures of some of the 14 students detained for leading a peaceful anti-coup rally in Bangkok yesterday.

The 14 activists, 13 men and one woman, appeared at a military court in the Thai capital yesterday where they were freed, but they still face trial over sedition charges and up to seven years in prison for defying the junta's ban on political gatherings.

They had been held in custody since their arrest on June 26.

The case has sparked international calls for their release and criticism of the military junta's strict controls on freedom of speech and assembly.

University professors and students joined dozens of protesters to show support for the students outside the court. Photo: AFP