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Takayuki
Noguchi Returns
From Chinese Prison
9
August 2004
At
approximately 9:00 PM on 9th August, Takayuki
Noguchi walked through the arrival gate at Narita Airport, after
having served an 8-month prison sentence for attempting to assist
two Japan-born North Korean refugees.
He
was greeted by family members, friends and dozens of
reporters, who held an impromptu news conference in the airport's
press room.
The photos below reveal a thinner, but smiling,
healthy and undeterred Noguchi, who asserted his continuing dedication
to human rights for refugees being repatriated unlawfully by China.
“Welcome back Noguchi”
Hiroshi Kato, secretary general of LFNKR, meets Takayuki
Noguchi at the arrival gate of Narita Airport.
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Noguchi is overcome with emotion as he
meets his family at the airport. |
Dozens of journalists and reporters were eager to ask
questions at the press conference, which began after 9 PM,
soon after Noguchi's plane landed. He is joined by Hiroshi
Kato, secretary general of LFNKR. |
Noguchi’s face clouds when telling of the two Japan-born
North Korean refugees he tried to save. They were eventually
repatriated. |
Noguchi continues to be haunted by the desolate groan,
“I’m already dead,” of the male North
Korean refugee, who gave up all hope when he saw the Chinese
police enter their hotel room. |
Counselor Yamashita, prominent human rights attorney (right),
joined the press conference. Displayed above them are pictures
of Noguchi and the two Japan-born North Korean refugees
he tried to rescue. |
In response to a reporter's question, Noguchi asserts
his continuing commitment to helping North Korean refugees.
He stated, "I was deprived of my freedom, and I feel
that I have experienced a small part of what they live through." |
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