North Korea released a statement Monday revealing that two American tourists arrested in April will be tried for illegal actions against the state.
According to Fox News, Matthew Miller and Jeffrey Fowle traveled to the isolated nation as tourists and were arrested April 10 and April 29 respectively. Upon entering the country, 24 year old Miller tore up his visa and demanded asylum, causing a stir among officials. Fowle, 56, faces charges for leaving a Bible in his hotel room.
The state run media outlet Korean Central News Agency stated "Their hostile acts were confirmed by evidence and their own testimonies."
Reuters reports that the State Department released a traveling advisory to North Korea back in May, warning Americans against the “risk of arbitrary arrest and detention.” Currently Christian missionary Kenneth Bae, a U.S. national, is serving 15 years hard labor.
“Mrs Fowle and the children miss Jeffrey very much, and are anxious for his return home,” said a statement from the Fowle family lawyer.
News of when the trial will begin, the specific crimes committed, or what punishment the two may face has yet to be released.