Duch. Photo / Supplied
Wednesday Nov 25, 2009
(Posted by CAAI News Media)
PHNOM PENH - Prosecutors in the genocide trial of a former Khmer Rouge prison chief demanded a lengthy jail term last night, calling him the personification of ruthless efficiency in the killing of thousands of Cambodian prisoners.
Kaing Guek Eav commanded the notorious S-21 prison, where those accused of disloyalty to the xenophobic communist regime were held.
He oversaw the torture and execution of about 16,000 men, women and children during the Khmer Rouge's 1975-79 rule.
If the United Nations-assisted tribunal, that includes New Zealand judge Dame Silvia Cartwright, finds him guilty, the former schoolteacher faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Prosecutors did not specify how much time Kaing Guek Eav, also known as Duch, should serve.
"The crimes of which he will stand convicted are of such an extreme seriousness and were committed against so many people that it is inconceivable that anything other than a lengthy sentence of imprisonment should be imposed upon him," prosecutor Chea Leang told the court.
"He was the personification of ruthless efficiency," she said.
"He was totally indifferent to the suffering of the victims. He was the perfect candidate to run S-21."
In his testimony, Duch has accepted responsibility for his role in overseeing the prison and asked for forgiveness from victims' families.
He also told the court he was ready to accept heavy punishment for his actions.
He has denied personally killing or torturing the S-21 prisoners, and said he felt compelled by fear for his own life to follow the orders of senior Khmer Rouge leaders.
Duch is expected to give his final statement as early as today.
He is charged with crimes against humanity, war crimes, murder and torture.
The closing arguments will conclude on Friday, while a verdict and sentence are expected early next year.
- AP
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