Adam Castillo, former head of the American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar and founder of a security consultancy, was detained at Yangon airport on June 11, 2026, upon returning from an international book promotion tour [1, 2, 3].
Authorities arrested Castillo because the current director of a business organisation he once led filed a lawsuit accusing him of breach of trust related to property affairs within that organisation [2, 3]. It remains unclear whether the lawsuit specifically involves the American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar or another business group; some sources state the claim came from the current head of the Chamber, while others note no official confirmation has been made [1, 2, 3].
Under Myanmar law, the alleged offence carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years [2, 3].
A court hearing on June 12 remanded Castillo to custody for two weeks pending further investigation [2, 3].
Castillo is the author of a memoir titled "Finding Our Voice: A Story of Leadership in Crisis and the American Spirit Abroad," recounting his experiences during the 2021 military coup in Myanmar and its aftermath [1, 2, 3]. The coup overthrew elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering civil conflict and leading to military rule under international sanctions [1, 2, 3].
The US State Department acknowledged awareness of Castillo's detention but declined to comment further, citing privacy concerns [1, 3].
The case marks the latest legal challenge faced by a foreign businessman associated with Myanmar's fraught political and business environment. Castillo is currently being held under court remand until at least June 25, when the custody period is scheduled to be reviewed [2, 3].
