This statement from the family of David Miller, who was murdered along with fellow British backpacker Hannah Witheridge in 2014, was released on Thursday after the death sentence was handed down to the two Myanmar nationals accused of the heinous crimes. We are reprinting it in full.
“He should not have died that night. David died from drowning after being hit multiple times. Blunt trauma broke his jaw, his cheekbone and fractured his skull.
He was hacked down from behind dragged into the sea and left to die. That will live with us forever.
What happened to Hannah Witheridge is unspeakable.
We believe that the result today represents justice for David and Hannah.
Like many people we were initially unsure what to think when Zaw Lin and Wai Phyo were detained as suspects.
We saw images of two innocent looking men surrounded by tough policemen.
It was easy to conclude they might just be convenient scapegoats. However we resolved to keep an open mind until we had heard all the evidence.
Concern for the accused has been widespread. A petition was organised and funds were raise for their benefit.
A group of activists became involved and has promoted their cause vigorously to the media.
Ultimately Zaw Lin and Wai Phyo [another name for Win Za Htun] obtained the best possible representation in court via a team of seven top lawyers.
Over the last few months we have attended many of the court [INAUDIBLE] and we have gained real respect for this court.
The judges have been invariably diligent, attentive, fair and extraordinarily hard working.
David always stood up for justice, and justice is what had been delivered today. We respect this court and its decision completely.
As the trial has progressed we came to realise that the police investigation and the forensic work performed was not the so called shambles it was made pout to be.
We believe that after a difficult start the Royal Thai Police conducted a methodical and thorough investigation.
Having listened carefully to all the evidence and despite what their lawyers say, it is our opinion that the evidence against Wai Phyo and Zaw Lin is absolutely overwhelming.
They raped to satisfy their selfish desires and murdered to cover up that fact.
They have shown no remorse during the trial. Initially they confessed for almost two weeks and then recanted in an attempt to avoid justice.
We hope the campaigners who have relentlessly publicised this case will respect the process of law and the decision of the court. We believe the correct verdict has been reached.
Finally we would like to thank everyone who have supported us over the last year. Our thoughts are with the Witheridge family and the horrors they are also enduring with so much dignity.
Our lives have been changed forever, nothing brings David home. No last hugs. No goodbyes. But whatever our anguish, the love we have for David can never be be taken away.
Our 24 years of memories and his beaming smile will always be cherished. David was intelligent and hard working, he was caring, inclusive, enthusiastic and fun.
He is irreplaceable to us. Our hearts will always be filled with the brightness he brought to our lives. We remain so proud of him.
We and his friends miss him terribly.”
