US Secures Release of American Detained in Myanmar

The United States has secured the release of Adam Castillo, a 40-year-old American businessman who had been detained in Myanmar for three months.

The US State Department said a delegation of American officials travelled to Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, last week to discuss Castillo’s case with local authorities.

Myanmar state media reported that Castillo was released “in consideration of the friendly relations between Myanmar and the United States.” He was handed over to US officials and later travelled to Bangkok, Thailand.

Castillo had been detained on June 11 at Yangon International Airport after returning from Malaysia. Myanmar authorities accused him of breach of trust and alleged that he violated regulations of the American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar, where he served as president.

The former US Marine, who founded and owned security risk management company AGS Myanmar, denied allegations of financial impropriety made against him by the American Chamber of Commerce.

A Washington-based nonprofit, Global Reach, which supported Castillo’s family in efforts to secure his release, welcomed the development.

Castillo’s sister, Amanda Castillo, also expressed relief at his release, saying she looked forward to welcoming her brother home after his prolonged detention.

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