Solomani Diplomat Visits Regina

Ambassador to Rhylanor arrives

Sources inside the IBI who were apprehending wanted persons, claimed that General Androchev attempted to use his position to have Katya released.

One report shows that Katya Androchev was one of the prisoners released because of "over crowded conditions", although the inmate population level that day was not above normal. Several Naval SP's in the vicinity who quickly identified and re-apprehended Miss Androchev.

During a press release General Androchev denied allegations that he was trying to impede the course of justice. He stated that he believed his sister had died a long time ago and so he simply wanted a chance to speak with her prior to her being sent off to stand trial.

Androchev also stated that even though he recognizes Katya as his sister, he in no way felt that she should escape justice. He stated that Katya was responsible for her actions and should answer for them.

However, in a stirring speech at the Naval trial, General Androchev stated that he felt at least in part responsible for his sisters acts. An emotional but controlled Androchev stated simply that had he been aware of Katya's survival earlier, he might have been able to have had some influence on her lifestyle.

The court briefly adjourned after these remarks but returned with a verdict of guilty on the count of piracy. The court sentenced Katya Androchev to "execution in Naval tradition". In an unusual announcement, the court then stated that the sentence was commuted to life imprisonment, to be carried out on the penal colony of Torment.

Sources close to the General have hinted that he has been a major factor and contributor to the anti-piracy actions in the former Neutral Zone. Some attribute this to the fact that the General was a captive of slavers and pirates and that his parents were killed by pirates. From his statement in court, General Androchev believed that his sister had died early in childhood at the hands of pirates. In light of this information, this reporter would not want to be in the General's boots at this time.

Liu arrives at a challenging time for the Solomani on Regina. Recently, the Solomani legation was accused of espionage and consul Christopher Blaelok and his staff were expelled by then governor Corina Ling-Raleigh.

The appointment of H. Duncan LaBland as the new consul has had little effect on negative public perceptions of the Solomani delegation, and Liu's visit is seen by many as an attempt to repair strained relations.

Liu, a former Tri-D actress and party organizer is known for her acute political sense as well as her charm. Since entering the Solomani foreign service, she gained a reputation as a tough but talented negotiator who has none the less charmed her opponents with her grace and humor.

Governor Launches Anti-Corruption Campaign

Speaking at a press briefing, the governor said it was "high time that Regina fell in line with the Imperial norm".

Collingwood went on to say that this action was being coordinated with the Regina senate, and that the senate would instigate formal hearings to "investigate and prosecute corruption at the very highest levels of government".

Agents of the Imperial Bureau of Investigation have already arrested several prominent administrators, as well as a dozen starport police officers.

Rumored to be Collingwood's top target is Mercer Black, the shadowy director of Regina Security. Black recently made headlines after a bloody sword-fight with former governor Corina Ling-Raleigh.