Former US Marine Credits Trump for Freedom from Myanmar Detention

Adam Castillo's Ordeal in Myanmar

Washington, Oct 14: Adam Castillo, a former US Marine who endured 97 days in detention in Myanmar, has expressed gratitude towards President Donald Trump for his release, while criticizing the US State Department for their lack of support during his captivity.

Castillo, an American businessman and veteran of the Afghanistan war, had resided in Myanmar for nearly 13 years. His detention followed a dispute within the American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar, where he had previously held the position of board president.

In an exclusive interview after his release, Castillo stated, "I owe my life to President Trump. Without him, I wouldn't be here today." He was apprehended at Yangon International Airport on June 11, spending 14 days in a police interrogation center before being moved to the infamous Insein Prison for an additional 83 days.

He clarified that he was never formally charged or convicted of any crime, asserting, "I was just detained." The conflict stemmed from allegations of financial misconduct that arose after he stepped down from the chamber's leadership.

What began as an internal disagreement escalated into a police investigation and ultimately required diplomatic intervention from Washington.

Castillo acknowledged the efforts of Vice President JD Vance, religious leaders, and private advocates in securing his release. He mentioned, "There are many people to thank, including Vice President J.D. Vance and the Faith Council from Paula White to Cardinal Dolan." He also recognized the support from Global Reach, an organization dedicated to assisting detained Americans and their families.

He was critical of the State Department, claiming that US diplomats in Myanmar did not take decisive action despite being aware of his situation. During a separate press conference in Washington, he stated, "The State Department did nothing," alleging that embassy officials hesitated to intervene until the White House got involved.

While in detention, American consular officials visited him four times, including three visits during his imprisonment. Castillo noted that his family and supporters faced challenges in obtaining substantial help from the embassy, stating, "The State Department should be ashamed of themselves." His claims have not been independently verified, and there has been no response from the State Department or the US Embassy in Myanmar.

Despite his detention experience, Castillo provided a somewhat positive view of conditions in Insein Prison, noting improvements over the years. He credited prison authorities and the International Committee of the Red Cross for enhancing sanitation and living conditions. He remarked, "I did not witness any mistreatment or torture during my time there." After leaving military service, Castillo had established a security business in Myanmar, offering guarding services and monitoring developments in the country's armed conflict.