Appeal Date Set In Chea Ratha Acid Case
Tuesday, 27 October 2009 15:03 LAURA SNOOK
An appeal against the acquittal of a former Military Police official accused of involvement in a brutal acid attack against her lesbian lover’s aunt will be heard Wednesday, a court official confirmed Monday.
The appeal was lodged after Chea Ratha, former deputy chief of staff of the Military Police, was found not guilty of masterminding the May 2008 attack that left Ya Soknim, the aunt of prominent beauty queen In Soklyda, scarred for life.
The verdict, announced August 31, was jointly condemned by human rights groups Licadho and the Cambodian Centre for Human Rights (CCHR).
In a statement released to the media September 2, Licadho director Naly Pilorge said: “What is so shocking in this case is the judges’apparent total disregard of evidence against Chea Ratha and her alleged accomplices.”
Evidence received by Phnom Penh Municipal Court during the yearlong investigation included recordings of phone calls in which Chea Ratha threatened to kill In Soklyda’s relatives, logs of telephone calls for Chea Ratha and her co-defendants on the day of the attack, and a report confirming that acid was found in the home of one of Chea Ratha’s associates, Licadho and CCHR said.
Chea Ratha’s lawyer, Nach Try, said his client – who is believed to have left the country – would not be present at the hearing, the date of which was confirmed by Court of Appeal Deputy President Chuon Sunleng.
Neither Ya Soknim nor In Soklyda could be reached for comment.
Acid Attack Appeal Scheduled
Friday, 23 October 2009 15:02 Mom Kunthear
Photo by: TRacey Shelton
AN appeal lodged in the case of a former Military Police official accused of involvement in a brutal acid attack against the aunt of her lesbian lover will be heard at the end of this month, a court official said Thursday.
Chuon Sunleng, deputy president of the Court of Appeal, said the hearing had been scheduled for the end of October, though he could not recall the precise date.
Chea Ratha, former deputy chief of staff of the Military Police, was charged with masterminding the May 2008 acid attack on Ya Soknim, the aunt of beauty queen In Soklyda, with whom she had been romantically involved. The relationship had turned sour earlier that year, and Chea Ratha blamed Ya Soknim for helping In Soklyda go into hiding, according to accounts of the case provided by rights groups.
The attack was allegedly carried out by two men on a motorcycle, who accosted Ya Soknim and poured acid over her face and upper body. She suffered severe burns as a result, losing her right eye and breast.
The Municipal Court acquitted Chea Ratha and five other suspects last month in a ruling that was condemned by rights groups.
Hong Sopheak, the lawyer for Ya Soknim and In Soklyda, said he did not know whether his clients would attend the hearing because they were out of the country.
He declined to comment on the case beyond saying that he believed the Municipal Court’s verdict was unjust and should be overturned.
Keo Ya, the lawyer for Chea Ratha, said Thursday that his client was also out of the country and had not asked him to represent her for the appeal.
Ecuadorian Trek
Tim and I had an encouraging, enjoyable, and we believe productive
time in Ecuador. Our travel via air and land were rather uneventful
with the exception of riding crowded buses on some very steep grades
and crooked roads which, as you may have guessed, provided just the
right conditions for car sickness to abound all around us! So much
for the fresh air of the Andes!
As planned our brother Juan met us at the airport and escorted
us to a number of meetings with indigenous church leaders. The
various locations fleshed out quite a diverse group of church leaders.
Our first meeting was with a group from long established churches in
the Quito area. They were very transparent as they shared that
continuing in the western model simply wasn’t reaching their people.
They were weary of attempting to keep lifeless machinery running. Oh,
but what an excitement was revealed when they realized that programs,
buildings, and even American missionaries were not the answer but
rather the revealed Word of God. Nothing is needed but a Holy Spirit
empowered implementation of the truths found therein.
Our second meeting was as if we were seeing firsthand the Book of Acts
fleshed out. Brother Juan has laid a Biblical foundation of what the
Church should be. The believers have eagerly taken hold and are
actively learning how to become a God reliant reproducing church.
The various meetings in the Puyo area revealed similar conditions.
Weariness seemed to accompany those who were exposed to the
constraints of buildings and program oriented ministries. On the other
hand, there was a perceivable excitement in the places were buildings
and programs were not the focus. All, however, were greatly refreshed
and encouraged as they were again reminded that God has provided
everything necessary to see the Great Commission to its conclusion.
Our responsibility is simply to embrace and obey His teachings.
Our families, ministries, and work required this trip to come to a
conclusion. Our thanks to each of you who prayed for us, our
families, and most of all the glory of God in our absence.
Thankfully His,
Tommy
No Justice For Our Dear Friend, Soknim
Updated – 07, September 2009
**I received an update from Bob Craft who is closely linked to Vibol and Soknim. Here is what he had to say:
Today we found out that Soknim’s attackers have been acquitted of their crimes. My heart goes out to that entire family as they have tried to bring this case to justice. We love you Soknim and continue to pray for you and your family!
Anger greets outcome of Cambodian acid attack case
Cambodian human rights groups have criticised the court’s handling of an acid attack case, allegedly involving a senior policewoman and the family of her beauty-queen lover.
In May last year, the aunt of the former model was attacked by two men, who held her down and poured acid over her face and body. Police charged the senior policewoman and six of her associates for attempted killing, but this week a municipal court acquitted them of all charges.
To continue reading, please click the link below:
http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/connectasia/stories/200909/s2675394.htm
Long Overdue Trip Report On China
Below is an excerpt from the newsletter I sent out in June. Sorry it has been so long in coming! Some of the info below has been changed or removed to protect our brothers and sisters!
Niˇ Haˇo! Hello!
We have wrapped up our time in Shanghai and we leave with joyful hearts. Before we say anything else, Tim and Chris wondered after the first day or so (albeit for a millisecond), what in the world are we doing here? Why has God brought us to a place where it seems for the most part, the body of Christ is just working…without the trappings of the West? Why would they need us?
We arrived on separate days and Tim started teaching pretty much right away. Chris came in a day later and was whisked from the airport right to the place where Tim was teaching. It quickly became apparent as we approached the area that our host did not want us gringo’s to be seen much. He walked into a charged room! Tim was teaching, the students were interacting and within 5 minutes of being there, Chris broke a chair and came crashing to the floor! Needless to say, that “broke” the ice for him very quickly! In all seriousness, we learned in a short amount of time we were working with some very bright twenty-somethings. God is doing something powerful here with the young people. We were constantly amazed at their rapid fire responses to biblical questions and their ability to work within scriptural context – something we do not often see with the older groups. They love the Lord and despite the ever present tension and extreme carefulness in how they go about things, they do not hold back their desire to follow God. During our break time at lunch, we were sequestered in a small room for a couple hours while the students ate their lunch or studied.
It struck home knowing that these believers really are persecuted for their faith. Our hosts have put a GREAT deal on the line for the work that they do day in and day out for these students. But you see the results and you see God’s protection and grace. We realized why we were there. Not only was it to strengthen and encourage these young people, but – as unselfish as I can put it – we were blessed and encouraged ourselves beyond what we could have imagined!
While this was an exploratory trip for us, it did not return void. It has opened doors for us in the future and has given us a vision of who might be most reachable. We may not have this same group of students to follow up with, but we know that God is at work here in a huge way and will direct us where we should go.
Pray that through our connection, many more doors will be opened throughout China. Pray that we can reach a few strong, young believers who can then take the gospel to places we never could and reach thousands more as a results. Remember, there are 140 million+ believers in China and that number is climbing!
Both Tim and Chris were able to preach on Sunday morning at different places. Tim in a home church with the younger students, Chris travelled towards downtown and ended up in a one room place that appeared to be used as a workshop, but I’m not sure. Most were migrant workers in their mid to late 30’s. What a powerful time we both had – kneeling next to other believers who were crying out to God with their tears falling to the dusty ground…we had never experienced anything like this. Spending time with believers who truly know the cost of following Christ, it certainly makes the American church look so weak. We take so much for granted, wallowing in our traditions and denominations.
Later on, we were able to visit a brother who is dying of Lou Gehrig’s disease. It was special being able to encourage he and his wife, but what a difficult place to be. It especially touched Tim as his father died of the same disease.
Probably one of the more touching times was the baptism we attended. We drove in the evening out to an area that housed some of the students. They took what looked like a tall kiddie pool and put it in the bathroom, then about 20 of us crammed into the hallway/bathroom area trying to see the baptisms. We had to take turns watching, but what a powerful time to witness these young people going into the waters.
Shen zhu fu ni!
Chinese for “God Bless You”
Latest News On Acid Attack!
It has been quite a long time since I have posted something on our dear friend, Ya Soknim. We knew that her attacker is still in hiding – paying off officials – and not being brought to justice. Here is some new information below as well as pictures of her attackers and a picture of Sokim herself.
——–
Soknim and her family remain under constant threat for their lives. Vibol asked for us to continue to pray for Soknim as she was heading back to Vietnam for more surgery. I asked him for prayer specifics. Incidentally the mastermind of the attack on Soknim is a woman named Chea Ratha and the former police officer who threw the acid (a male) is the one posted in the “Most Wanted” article in Parade magazine as Chandy Seak , # 5 in their slideshow online.
Here are some things you can pray for (From Vibol):
1-For her neck can be move arround after sugery
2-For her arm can be move after surgery
3-For her health good after wake from surgery
4-For financial needs as well,now we have $2700 and we need $1300.USD
for surgery as well and we to pay after 3 days in hospital.
Blessing of the Lord upon you and family and thanks for your love and prayer support.
In Him We Trust
Bro.Vibol
TESTIMONIES OF GOD’S WORK
As the result of a recent trip to S. E. Asia, God unveiled what He is doing in this region of the world. Part of this was through the testimonies of key indigenous leaders who have worked through the Church Planting Manual and put into practice the living principles directly from God’s Word. We will let these testimonies speak for themselves. (They are unedited). Truly, God is glorifying Himself through His Living Word which is “powerful and sharp” (Hebrews 4:12).
TESTIMONIES
I am Khapoi a workman of God living in Phamaitai Village. I have got a manual which helped me a lot to know God’s will and how to follow His command. “God’s Plan for Church Planting” is a useful book I have ever had. Since I have been through this manual, I found out that there are many principles that benefit me, my family and my ministry. The Bible shows me very clear God has a purpose and a plan for His children. I share lessons and things I learn and hear from God with my wife and my children. The Biblical role in the church family, personal, husband, wife, parents, and children are a perfect lesson we try to follow. I take lessons to teach members at the church and not so long I can see many changing.
My name is Khamsu, a workman of God from Akvana Church, the Hanber. Since year 2007, I have been learning how to serve the Lord effectively. I have participated in the training of God’s Plan for Church Planting many times. Through this training I have learn many useful and practical lessons which benefit the ministry of God. As I spent time went through the book, I learned technique of planting churches which are simple but effective and powerful according to the book of Acts. I can see many good example of Paul’s ministry he did and finished reaching Asia in 10 years. I also learned that he relied only on Holy Spirit and God’s Word. In order to be a successful church planter, I need to have a good personal relationship with Christ. Though I am very busy, I should never forget to give time in talking and listening to God. When I apply what I have learned into my life, not only me receive blessing from the Lord but also my wife, my family and the church family.
I am Thoanh from Phaitxai Church. Since year 2007, I have been learning on how to reach more people in my area and the whole country to Christ. God’s Plan for Church Planting is an effective manual I have got. Inside the book, there are many biblical lessons which are useful for me, my family and the family of God. One lesson I gain most is handling conflict. As a leader, I face many problems that happen among church member. Before, some problem couldn’t be solved because we did not deal in biblical way. Since I learn the steps of handling conflict then I use it carefully. I see those problems are solved properly.
I am Lavong from Tongon Village and district. I am thankful to God for opportunity to learn these wonderful lessons. I learned most from lesson “Personal.” While I was studying this lesson, I heard God’s voice that it’s never too long to spend time with Christ. The time Jesus gives to me is not limited but my time for God is limited. I realized that I have to give God what is right not what is left. I may be very busy of doing many things but I will not forget to have a quiet time with Christ. Let Jesus be the most important in life like Matthew 6:33. Both my wife and my children walk with Lord and serve Him. We protect our hearts and minds by the Word of God and we let God speak to us. For the church family are blessed through my life and my family. I take some lessons from God’s Plan for Church Planting and to teach to church members. They learn and apply to their lives. As a result, their lives are changed by the power of God’s Word. I can see that the church is getting stronger. Praise the Lord.
GOD’S WORD SPREADS IN HILLS OF ASIA – Part 2
(See December 4, 2008 for First Article)
“The purpose of this trip was to conduct a “Preach the Word” Conference based on 2 Tim. 4:2. The goal and motive was to encourage people to have confidence in the authority, power and sufficiency of the Scripture for our lives and churches today.” Sixteen devoted young servants delivered the message of God’s Word to ten villages over four weeks. Travel was mostly by foot or boat where possible. “We were preparing and praying for this trip for almost a year because the requirements for such a trip were beyond our capacity. However, 6 days prior to the dates of departure we received an answer to our prayers from the Lord. Words cannot explain our thankfulness to God.”
In each village the Gospel message was proclaimed plus cloths and blankets of the elderly were washed and they were also helped in practical ways. They followed Paul’s model in 1 Thessalonians 2:8, “We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our lives as well.” In one village 14 adults who made profession of faith were baptized in a nearby river. In another village “the people from the nearby village also came to joining the service. After the service, we showed them the Jesus’ Film according to John’s Gospel. The message was well received and we served the older people in such a way that it made them see the love of God.”
“Preach the Word” Conference: There were 32 church leaders who attended the training. We learned from the life of Moses, Joseph, Paul and Jesus about the difficulties, challenges and temptations a leader faces today. We also looked at the Scriptures about the importance and relevance of preaching for today’s ministry. We have proclaimed the salvation message of the Lord Jesus Christ and the importance of preaching in these last days of spiritual deception.” A new church was planted, 53 older people were served and about 60 children were given cloths. We give great praise to our God for the work He is doing through indigenous servants of Christ.
Slavery Today? The Worst Kind…
This is one cause from the New York Times that we could take up. Church, how can we rest and enjoy all of our material blessings while this sort of slavery goes on and actually increases daily. After seeing this interview and reading this article, how can we today sit in the comfort, warmth and luxury of our church buildings? Excuse me, I am a little upset this morning. Years ago a young Christian women went to India and literally stopped the babies being sacrificed, Amy Carmichael. Are there any Amy’s out there?
“Then the righteous will answer him saying, Lord when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you? And the King will answer them, Truly, I say to you as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me….. Matthew 25:37-45
Tim
<Click Picture Below>
INDIA: Going Rate to Kill Pastors: $250
Hindu extremist groups are offering money, food and alcohol to anyone who
murders Christians and destroys their homes.
The violence is nothing new in Orissa, India, where India’s Communist Party
estimates that more than 500 Christians have been killed by Hindu mobs in Orissa
since late August, 12 times more than official government claims of only 40
homicides.
But now the stakes are even higher – and pastors have a bounty on their heads.
Faiz Rahman, chairman of Good News India, said Hindu militants are targeting
Christian leaders, the Christian Post reported. “The going price to kill a
pastor is $250,” he said. Rahman, a head of several orphanages in Orissa State,
said he’s helped 25 pastors to leave refugee camps, but 250 Christian leaders
are still in shelters. “All of the pastors are high value targets,” Rahman told
the UK-based Release International. “We’ve got to get them out of the refugee
camps.”
An All-India Christian Council spokesman said, “People are being offered rewards
to kill, and to destroy churches and Christian properties. They are being
offered foreign liquor, chicken, mutton and weapons. They are given petrol and
kerosene.” World Net Daily
Pray against this and ask the Lord to protect Pastors from this terrible plot
against them.
He frustrates the ways of the wicked Psalm 146;9b
“Voice of the Martyrs Prayer Alert – 17/12/08″
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