On 1 February 2013, the People's Court in the Phu Yen province convicted 22 members of the "Bia Son Council for Public Law and Affairs". The alleged leader of the group Mr. Phan Van Thu, 65 years old, who was arrested in February 2012, was sentenced to life in prison, and the 21 others were sentenced to between 10 and 17 years in prison. The authorities had previously charged them under article 79 of the Criminal Code ("activities aimed at subverting the people's power"), accusing them of producing documents that distorted government policies and slandering the regime. It is reported that the 22 defendants did not enjoy a fair trial as their lawyers, appointed by the Court, did not challenge the sentences proposed by the People's prosecutor. Serious concerns are expressed that the harsh sentences pronounced against the 22 members of the "Bia Son Council for Public Law and Affairs" may be linked to the exercise of their right to freedom of association. Further concerns are expressed for their physical and psychological integrity while in detention.