Hundreds of Muslim men were freed in southern Thailand on Saturday but many others faced prosecution after they were detained in last week's protest which left 85 dead and outraged Muslims world-wide.
In a move aimed at easing tensions after one of the bloodiest days in the restive region, Thai authorities released the first of some 900 protesters expected to be freed in coming days. A dusk-to-dawn curfew was also lifted.
But another 300 men faced charges stemming from Monday's protest in Narathiwat province and other offences, Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said in his weekly radio address.
"My life has changed, but I am lucky to be alive," said 20-year-old Ma Yusoa, one of 160 detainees met by relieved family members in Narathiwat's Muang district.
The south, home to most of Thailand's six million Muslims, is outraged at the deaths of 78 men who suffocated after being crammed into army trucks and driven three hours to a military barracks in neighbouring Pattani province.
Another seven died from wounds suffered when security forces fired live rounds, teargas and water cannon to suppress the 1,500-strong crowd demanding the release of six detained villagers at the Tak Bai police station.
Amnuay Hayeesae, 38, said he was treated well during his detention, but he will never forgive soldiers for the abuse they meted out after the rally was broken up.
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