Myanmar: Accused of violating visa rules, former British ambassador arrested along with her husband

Vicki Bowman

Myanmar military authorities have arrested former British ambassador to Myanmar Vicky Bowman and her husband.

She is accused of violating visa rules and her husband is accused of helping her stay in Myanmar.

These charges are punishable by up to five years in prison.

Vicki Bowman was posted in Myanmar from 2002 to 2006. Her husband is Htin Lin, a Burmese artist and former political prisoner.

She runs the Myanmar Center for Responsible Business (MCRB) in the capital Yangon.

He has been sent to the capital's Ensen Jail and his trial will begin on September 6.

The British Embassy says they are providing them with consular assistance.

According to MCRB, it promotes 'responsible business activities' across the country. It is also a partner of the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) which aims to 'make respect for human rights part of everyday business.'

Myanmar's military government is widely accused of serious human rights violations.

Earlier this month, the generals extended their emergency rule until 2023.

The military government took power last year after ousting the government of democratically elected ruler Aung San Suu Kyi.