AP’s photo journalist Thein Zaw was released on March 24 after his defamation charge was dropped, said his lawyer. 

Four arrested reporters including him were brought to trial at Kamayut Township Court on March 24. The court ruled that the charge on Thein Zaw was dropped and he was released. 

“Plaintiff police captain Myo Oo submitted a letter saying Thein Zaw’s case was withdrawn. The judge passed his verdict that he would be acquitted as per Section 494 (a) of the penal code of Myanmar. He was unconditionally released,” said his lawyer Tin Zar Oo. 

The AP photo journalist was released from Insein Prison in Yangon at about 2 pm on March 24. He is said to be in good health. 

Thein Zaw together Ye Myo Khant from MPA photo agency were arrested by police on February 27 while covering the protest at Hledan in Kamayut Township. 

The five journalists arrested and charged with Section 505 (a) of the penal code at Kamayut Township Court are Thein Zaw, Ye Myo Khant, Aung Ye Ko from 7 Day, freelance reporter Banyar and Hein Pyae Zaw from Zeekwat news agency.  

Reporter Kay Zun Nway from Myanmar Now and freelance reporter Soe Yaza Tun were also arrested in Yangon while covering news.