I certainly agree with the uniforms being those whom to appear North Vietnamese. The Pith Helmet(S) are original--(unlike the cheap helmets sold as souvenir's).
Relative to the pictures of the two Vietnamese being tied,it was the "preferable" method in that not only are the hands bound, but to also tie the arms securley behind the back. This prevents two things. Vietnamese are small in stature and regular hand cuffs/rope prevents the prisoner from using his hands to pass via sliding the hands to the front. The second is that it makes the guiding/control of the prisoner much easier.
Obviously, I served in Vietnam and most certainly believe Human Rights violations are taking place on a regular basis.
My recent trip took me back to Saigon, and it is clear the vietnamese are geared toward tourism and the almighty Fed Reserve note, therefore hiding the real nature of the Government. These things are true!!!