This is a tragedy of epic proportion.  The mainstream media totally spins the entire story to appease the U.S. establishment.  What they do not realize is political winds can often change.  Journalists are suppose to be a defense against corruption.  The problem with them being a participant in it, the winds can turn on them.  Today's story supporting the establishment could turn into grounds to attack one.  

We tend not to learn from history.

I believe you are correct.  The track record for the authoritarian state is not very good.  To believe they treated him well and did not torture him is unlikely.  There is no doubt in my mind they went full CIA on him with even thinking twice.