Eleven Shan groups call for release of nine civilians held by MNDAA

Mizzima

Eleven Shan civil society organizations have demanded the release of nine civilians detained by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), commonly known as the Kokang Army.

On 1 February, residents of Man Sel Village, Nampawng Village Tract in Lashio Township, protested against the MNDAA’s plans to grant gold mining rights to Chinese entrepreneurs. It is reported that 36 civilians were arrested and taken away on that day due to their opposition.

“They are currently being held at their base in Hsenwi. They haven’t been allowed to see their families. Most of them are young people. Three of them have suffered broken bones,” said Ying Mwe Leng, Secretary of the Shan Students’ Union.

Of those arrested, 27 were released on 2 February. However, nine individuals Sai Pan Sein, Sai Sam, Sai Lu, Sai Nyunt, Sai Than, Sai San Mya, Sai Pwint, Sai Maung Yaung, and Sai Tun Kyaw remain in detention to this day.

The statement noted that on 29 January, a man named Lung Pan from Pan Myaing Village in Hsipaw Township died from injuries sustained after being beaten by MNDAA soldiers.

There are now grave concerns for the lives of the nine current detainees as they are reportedly being subjected to beatings.

Consequently, the 11 civil society groups issued a statement calling on the MNDAA to immediately release the nine detainees.

They also demanded an end to the forced seizure of farmland for gold mining against local wishes, an immediate stop to gold mining plans, an end to armed intimidation and violence against civilians, accountability and compensation for those affected until the issues are resolved, and a cessation of violations that undermine peaceful coexistence.