Eight innocence villagers were tortured by the ILB-144’s Captains

On August 12, 2012, eight innocence villagers were forced to carry materials for Chinese business men and tortured by the Captains of ILB-144 named Myo Naing Aung and Win Moe in Sawyam village, Namhkam Township, Northern Shan State, Burma. 

During torturing, even though village’s governors have come to beg for the victims, the captains refused and demanded his soldiers by threating the local administrators with their guns. 

 

On August 12, 2012, when seventeen villagers arrived at the ILB-144 temporary camp, women were sent back to village and eight men were beaten by the soldier for their cases on August 6.

The accident was started when the majors demanded to Sawyam villagers as a porter to carry materials for Chinese business men instead of the battalion at the 21 miles (boundary pillar) on August 6, 2012. 

“When we arrived at 21 miles (boundary pillar), the soldier ordered us to carry materials for Chinese business men instead for the battalion. We were forced to take our horses to carry the equipment, not only that but also had to bring our own food. As we heard, Chinese men have paid (50,000) Kyats to the majors for transportation per each horse. Because no one was happy for that and some villagers went back to home before finishing carry things as they were very hungry. As a result, the captains demanded villagers to come to the military camp again and beaten them” said by a local resident. 

The captains, Myo Naing Aung and Major Win Moe, even just take responsibility in the temporary camp for two months, not only are they treading very badly to the head of village, but also are they violating to the local people by their military power and guns.

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Burmese military troops loot the properties of residents

On July 25, 2012 the Burmese military troops of ILB.501 base in Kyawkmae, loot local people’s ancestral inheritance and stole belongings from local households and shops in Pan Swe village, Manton Township, Northern Shan State, Burma.

The Military troops carried out random searches on U Nay Aung’s house and after they found traditional valuables in the house of gold and silver, they took everything they wanted by threating the house owner with their guns.

According to an eye witness “the reason the soldiers gave for searching the house was that they believed that house owner was connected with ethnic armed groups but there was no evidence linking him with the armed groups. They forced the house owner to open his jewelry box even though he begged them not to take his things as he explained things their traditional and sentimental value to him and his family. The soldiers ignored his pleas and broke the lock and took all of the contents of the box; a gold ring ($400), silver belt ($170) and silver necklaces”.

At the same time, another three families have also been subjected to having their belongings stolen by military troops as they set up camp in the same village. Over 90 soldiers entered local shops wielding their guns and took what they wanted from the shop without permission, pointing their weapons at the shop-owners.

“They separated into three groups to raid the three different shops at the same time. We were treated very badly and they swore and threatened us that if we said anything they would shoot us. The soldier that seemed to hold a high position gave boots that the shop was going to sell to each of his soldiers. Then they took several other things that they wanted such us expensive food, cigarettes, beer and dry rations. When we asked for money the leader took his gun and said “this is why we don’t we have to pay for it” and left from the village” said one of the shop owners.

The shop owner, U Kunahsin, lost over two hundred thousand Kyat ; U Kunpyo lost over three hundred thousand Kyat and U Nyein Chan lost over three hundred thousand Kyat from the goods stolen by the soldiers.

In Manton Township, most of the villagers rely on the local shops for all their needs due to bad transportation. As the result incidences like this happening whenever the military come through th e village, local people are very upset to lose their property again and again; now wen they hear of the soldiers coming to the village they leave their homes and go to the jungle or somewhere else to hide and avoid the soldiers persecution.

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Government not fulfilling their educational responsibilities

Namhlin village, one of the villages under Ta’ang (Palaung) autonomous areas in Northern Shan State, has been facing the problem of the lack of teachers at their nursery school in the 2012-13 academic school year; the school has only been opened for two months.

Even though the school development committee and village administration have submitted a file regarding the situation and have requested a teacher for nursery school to the local minister of education; it has been totally ignored by the authorities.

Local villagers have said that the situation is very disappointing because the children do not learn anything when they attend school. Their parents are unhappy for the situation their children are in even though attempts have been made by the head of the village to remedy the problem when he went to Namhsan town and discussed the issue with the authorities however they have been negligible about the complaint and nothing has changed.

Namhlinn village is a moderate sized village in Namhsan Township; it houses over 300 families. The village established the new nursery school by themselves but now is struggling to find teachers and is getting absolutely no support form the government authorities.

According to the governmental legislation, a village must have both a nursery school and a middle school in order to get government teachers; the residents have built a new nursery school to adhere to this directive. The school also has to run under management of Namhsan town until the village gets the government to build a high school.

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Corruption in Namtu Traffic Police

On July 23, 2012, a traffic police and a young Ta’ang boy were involved in a motorcycle crash in front of the Barn offices at 9 pm in Namtu, Northern Shan State, Burma.

The incident occurred when the traffic police’s motorcycle brushed against Mai Aik Ngot’s motorbike as he was on his back from looking a relative at Namtu General Hospital.

Mai Aik Ngot said “I tried to avoid the policeman’s bike but the policeman was really drunk. Therefore, our motorbike collided side-on with each other. Even though he didn’t fall off from his motorbike, he took my key, treated me very rudely and threatened to beat me. Finally as I didn’t want to argue with the policeman due to his intoxicated state, I returned home on foot from the Barn office”.

During the accident, another local biker named Poethayout fell off his motorbike near the incident because he was looking at the accident as he was afraid of the traffic police.

“The traffic police also confiscated Poethayout’s motorbike even though his accident was not concerned with this problem. Poethayout explained to me later on that this particular policeman is always rude and exhibits threaten behavior to others when he has been drinking” said Mai Aik Ngot.

Next morning at 10am, Mai Aik Ngot looked for the police man and admitted that the accident was his fault so he could get his motorcycle back. But the police man refused to give it back and demanded money (50,000 kyats) from him. He tried to explain about his financial problems because of his relative being in hospital for medical care. In the end he had to pay over 40,000 Kyats in a fine to get back his motorcycle. He is very unsatisfied about his treatment throughout this case but didn’t know where to take his complaints.

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Innocent villager seriously hurt in fighting between the TNLA and Burmese Military

The fighting took place in Mansat (Ruja) village, Namhsan Township on the morning of July 17, 2012 while the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) were staying at the village, Burmese Military troops (ILB-112) fired their weapons targeting the village the conflict lasted about two hours.

As the result of the fighting several houses and a village monastery were damaged. Mai Thein Maung (22yrs), son of Thar Aik Sang, was shot in the stomach and seriously injured. He was sent to Namhsan general hospital for emergency medical care.

A local person said, “After the TNLA left the village, Burmese Military troops came to the village and tortured the head of village and the secretary of village until their bodies completely battered and bruised. The reason they were beaten was because they didn’t inform the Burmese military that the TNLA had come to the village.

There were no reports of any fatalities from the TNLA of Burmese Military during the conflict.

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Two Innocent Villagers Arrested and Detained without Word

An incident was took place in Mantong Township on the 4^th July 2012, where two Ta’ang youth were arrested by Burmese military troops from Infantry Battalion 507 as they suspected that two villagers had connections with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). 

On the road near Tin Joe Village, Mai Aik Kaung was arrested because he had a receipt that held a KIA letterhead. A second man, Aik San Maw, was arrested as Burmese soldiers carried out random house searches where they found an old walkie-talkie in his home.  

 “These kinds of walkie-talkies are very common in this area as they are useful in communication for logging and some former Palaung State liberation Army members still have them to use where there is no mobile phone coverage. It seems meaningless to arrest someone on suspicion of connection with armed rebel groups solely for possession of this item” said a local resident. 

According to their parents, the military troops took their two sons from Mantong to Mai Wee Village, Namhkam Township. There has been no news of them since their arrest and their families are worried for their safety.

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Fighting continues between the TNLA and Burmese military troops

Fighting took place between the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Burmese military troops for approximately one and half hours on 5^th July, 2012. According to a local resident; the fighting began at 1:30 pm until 3:00 pm.

 “Since fighting took place we are afraid to stay at the village and some villagers are hiding out in the forest as we don’t want to flee far from the village because we don’t want to lose our property. One reason why we are hiding is that whenever Burmese soldiers arrive at the village they force the villagers to porter or pointer for them” said the villager. 

According to a TNLA source there were about 50 Burmese soldiers from Infantry Battalion-501 based in Kyaukme that started to attack the collaborative armies of the TNLA and KIA which have over 60 soldiers, near Htart Kyaet village, Nar Awn village tract, Mantong.

Sources from the TNLA state that two Burmese soldiers were seriously injured and were sent to Namtu Hospital for emergency medical care, but the alliance rebel groups of TNLA and KIA had no one die or wounded.

On this occasion the rebel armies were made up of only Kachin and TNLA soldiers; SSA troops were not involved in this conflict. 

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Villagers were tortured and disappeared

Two Paung Aww’s villagers have been tortured by Min Thet,the Sergeant of Infantry Battalion324 which is based in Namtu Town, Northern Shan State, Burma. The Burmese soldiers arrested Ma Dee and his friend at the checkpoint on Nampanlay-Maisin road during their way back from village to Namtu at 10 am on June 3, 2012.

"Ma Dee’s mother went to the Burmese army temporary checkpoint for looking her son because her son didn’t arrive back home and she heard that her son was arrested by the soldiers. But she didn’t see her son as the sergeant said that her son has been already released. His mother and relatives are still looking for their son until now and their son is still disappearance" said by the local person.

The reason that they were arrested is because of a viss of dry tea and a small bag of rice, the military regime suspect that the two villagers have connected with ethnic armed groups even without any evidence. Ma Dee, Kachin ethnic nationality, was tied by rope and basted until the bleeding of his head.

According to the local people said the victims were still disappeared even their family were seeking in the battalion where they got information about detention the victims.The Burmese soldiers used to torture and kill the innocence villagers during their troops in the Ta’ang region.

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Fighting of TNLA and Burmese Military

The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Burmese military regime was fighting again for 20 minutes long in the morning. It was started from 45 past 8am to 9am on May 29 2012 .It was took place at the area of Pan Swe and Htart Kyart village road Man Tong Township, Northern Shan State.

 

According to Tar Hol Plang says about the war which are including in this war has three groups.)One side was Ta’ang National Liberation Army and the rest of the side was combined groups the Burmese military regime and Htun Myat Lay who was leading of Namhsan people militia group were fighting backed. 

There are three privates were over throw from the military regime side, and no one hasn’t get the injuries in TNLA side. A person who leads this column is called Loi Sang; he was taking responsibility as a lieutenant colonel in Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

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Extreme Measures: Torture and Ill Treatment in Burma since the 2010 Elections

This report documents the Government of Burma’s torture and ill treatment against its own people since the 2010 elections. This report demonstrates that the Burmese government continues to commit these abuses despite being bound to international human rights treaties and norms. Furthermore, the lack of domestic legislation prohibiting torture, the absence of an independent judiciary, and an ineffective Human Rights Commission contribute to a climate where torture and ill treatment are perpetrated with impunity.

From January to December 2011 alone, ND-Burma’s member organizations documented 371 cases of human rights violation across the country of which 83 cases, or 22 percent constitute torture and ill treatment. Torture and ill treatment in Burma takes place in two distinct places: (1) in detention centers where political prisoners are interrogated and held, and (2) in ethnic nationality areas where the Burmese military is present.
Torture of political prisoners generally takes place shortly after an individual is arrested during interrogations. It can, along with ill treatment, continue for years – even decades – while political prisoners serve inordinately long sentences
In ethnic nationality areas torture seldom takes place in formal detention centers but is meted out in military bases or remote rural villages. Shan State and Kachin State are particularly hard hit. Evidence gathered by ND-Burma shows that torture and ill-treatment in ethnic areas often takes place within the context of other human rights violations, including arbitrary arrest, forced labor, forced portering, confiscation of property, restriction of movement, and sexual violence.
The report makes a number of recommendations to the Government of Burma and the international community. Chief among these are calls for the adoption of legislation guaranteeing basic rights for the people of Burma, particularly the internationally recognized right to be free from torture and ill-treatment, and laws that ensure that the perpetrators of these crimes face justice. There are also calls for more education, training and public awareness about torture in order to prevent future violations as well as calls to institute safeguards and programs that guarantee that victims have available, credible, accessible remedies to deal with torture should it take place. This report also raises concerns regarding the new National Human Rights Commission, including its lack of full independence, its inability to investigate crimes committed by the military, and its failure to comply fully with best practices for national human rights commissions as described in the Paris Principles.
Torture and ill treatment have a ripple effect, with potentially long lasting negative consequences for individuals, families and society as a whole. This report serves as a reminder to the Government of Burma and the international community that significant hurdles remain for Burma to emerge as a functioning democracy that respects the Rule of Law and the rights of the people of Burma, particularly ethnic nationalit
Full report: download 

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The main road from Lashio to Muse closed

On 27^th May, a member of an armed group sent a message to all bus stations and drivers that they will close the main road which connects Lashio to Muse. The reason for the road closure is the ongoing conflict between the KIA and Burmese Military.

According to a villager “Many cars and buses use this road and it is usually extremely busy. However, last night, I didn’t see any buses running. The road was so quiet.”

 “We are worried that fighting will start again, also I saw no one on the road last night. We couldn’t access electricity for the past two nights and the area was too quiet. Villagers had to try to generate their own electricity by using diesel motors but are afraid that by doing this as they will attract the unwanted attention of the Burmese soldiers stationed nearby, it so quiet in Kutkai Township” according to villager said.

Another villager added “I saw a few cars ware traveling on the road this afternoon, I noticed that it was very different from how is normally is. Transportation fees have also increased, in the past they asked that we pay 10,000 Kyat per person but currently the drivers are asked to pay 15,000 Kyat each.”

Many traders are asking the Burmese authorities to address this problem. If the road remains closed the cost of importing goods will increase and at the same time exporting goods will take longer and this could damage export relations and ultimately lose the traders a lot of money, and the price of local goods will also increase.

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Notions of Peace shattered in the Ta’ang (Palaung) self-autonomous areas

On May 26^th 2012, ethnic rebel troops blocked the road from Mantong to Namtu, the local authorities failed to keep the situation under control and as a result local Mantong residents are finding it difficult to maintain their livelihoods and have suffered price increases from the road blockage and continuing conflict.

In response to the actions of the rebel group, the Burmese army deployed 200 armed soldiers to block access to the road between Mantong to Namhsan . Due to their actions local peoples’ rights were impinged upon as it restricted their right to travel and to earn their living.

The impact of the blocking every possible access route to the Town affects people from both the urban and rural areas who are worrying for coming challenges with regards to the ongoing civil war. At the same time, they are faced with rising of prices of commodities for their survival.

On May 27^th, one of the residents from Manton town spoke about their personal situation “5 local trucks were driving along the Mantong – Namtu road when they encountered the rebel group and they had to pay 50,000 Kyats for each tuck to continue to Lashio”.

Not only did the Burmese army control the road between Mantong to Namhsan but also the road between Mantong to Moe Make were their armed troops were in transit in order to control as much territory around Mantong as possible.

Mantong Town is the former headquarters for the Palaung State Liberation Army (PSLA). It was one of the two provincial towns listed under self autonomous areas since 2010. Infantry Military Battalion No.130 is located in the town and it is a base for the training for the local’ militia.

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KIA blocks the road from Mantong to Namtu

On May 26^th 2012, the Kachin Independence Army blocked the way between Mantong to Namtu citing reasons of civil war. They sent a letter to the local bus station to inform them of their actions.

A local resident and bus station manager said "the KIA  released a letter sayingthat due to the civil war they would block access to the road between Mantong and Namtu and that this would have an affect on passengers ability to travel and that it would be advisable for buses and trucks to avoid taking this route.”

Local people feel that the reason for the road block is to prevent Burmese military soldiers reaching Lashio as they have to take this route to get there. It is one of the main cities in northern Shan State and important for trade.

The letter was sent to the bus station so they would inform the local authorities of the road block. The KIA letter advised local traders to avoid travel at this time as they could possibly get caught in the cross fire in fighting between the KIA and the Burmese Military. The KIA strategy is to block the road in order to prevent the advance of Burmese Military troops.

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Mantong Villager Shot

Fighting has been ongoing in the Namhsan area between the Burmese Military and the rebel insurgency groups, KIA and TNLA. Travel for local people has been made difficult as armed forces have blocked access to local roads in order to gain control over the area.
On May 20th the Burmese Military had blocked a local road and set up a security check point. Two local residents who were traveling by motorcycle were asked to stop and ordered by the soldiers to turn off their engine. The two men were terrified about what the soldier would do and so made an attempt to drive off in order to escape the wrath of the soldiers. The soldiers shot at the motorcyclists. The passenger was shot to the head and fell off the bike and the driver escaped unharmed and drove to a nearby house to tell them of the events that just happened. The dead mans family waited three days until the soldiers had moved on to find the body and only then could they perform a traditional funeral. The family was distraught when they saw the extent of the damage the bullet wounds had to the head. The Infantry Battalion responsible for this was Infantry No. 501 which is normally based in Kyaukmae Township.
Local people are outraged at the continual blocking of roads and the interrogation they face when trying to travel from one place to another. Local people say the situation is becoming worse “when they stop to check people their behavior and attitude is often wild and unpredictable. They can be extremely rude and attack people without reason and often demand payment from local people in order to pass. The Burmese soldiers are unhappy about losing fellow soldiers in the conflict and take their vengeance out on innocent people” Most travelers and traders try to avoid these checkpoints but often have no choice if they wish to go about their daily business.
In relation to the above case in May this year it has been reported that two more villagers were murdered by Infantry Battalion No. 130 near Moe Nwe village, Mantong Township. There have been multiple reports of murders perpetrated by Military soldiers that have been covered up by the authorities and many villagers have been threatened by the soldiers not to speak out about these events and are afraid about what will happen if they talk.

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Investments cause renewed war, threatening Ta’ang communities in northern Burma

Foreign investments are causing increasing conflict and abuses in northern Burma despite recent ceasefire agreements and talk of reform in the country, according to a briefing paper released today by an ethnic Ta’ang group.

Catalyst for Conflict by the Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization (TSYO) documents how Burma Army soldiers deployed to secure Chinese mega projects, including oil and gas pipelines and hydropower dams, have been threatening, extorting money from, and killing local villagers since January this year. In March, two villagers coming back from fishing near a Chinese dam site were interrogated and killed by Burmese soldiers patrolling the site.

The briefing also details how Chinese companies are paying 5,000 kyat (US$6) per day to Burma Army soldiers from local battalions for security around pipelines which will carry oil and gas to China.
Control over natural resources and abuses by the Burma Army have been core grievances in both Kachin and Shan states where conflict erupted last year. In July the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) was formed and has since launched several attacks against Burmese troops patrolling in Ta’ang areas.

Since December 2011, over 1,000 men, women and children have become internally displaced, sheltering in Nam Kham and Mantong. Many have also fled to China to escape the war.
“Foreign investors are cold-bloodedly fuelling war in Burma” said Mai Khroue Dang of TSYO. “All mega projects should be suspended until Burmese troops withdraw and political dialogue leads to a meaningful resolution of conflict.”

The Ta’ang, also known as Palaung, are an ethnic group numbering an estimated one million living in the hills of Burma’s Shan State and China’s southern Yunnan province.

Contact: Mai Aung Ko, Lway Phoo Reang, Mai Khoure Dang
Phone: 080118 4479, 0800 580 720, 0845 739 331

Full download for briefing paper: English Version

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Shwe Gas pipeline security soldiers demand money from locals

The Burmese soldiers, who take responsibility for the security of the Shwe Gas Pipeline from Namtu to Maimaw, are demanding money from local people travelling around the Pipeline. On April 28th 2012, three tea traders were threatened by soldiers of Lashio Battalion 68, who demanded money from them, on their way from Namtu to Takhalat village.

“The three of us were carrying tea back to Takhalet village by motorbike. When we arrived at the entrance of the village, the Burmese soldiers, who are responsible for the Gas pipeline security, demanded money from us for Alcohol, they were already drunk. We begged them to leave us be because we didn’t have much money and each of us only had 5oo Kyat but they didn’t accept our pleas. They said that if we couldn’t pay for their alcohol, we would not be allowed to pass. Finally, each of us had to pay our last 500 Kyat to the soldiers” said by the victim.
The soldiers are not only demanding money from the motorcyclists, but also from local people on foot and in cars. In Northern Shan State, local people are often subjected to being threatened and being stopped and checked without any reason and having to pay money under the intimidation of Burmese soldiers who take responsibility for Shwe Gas Pipeline security which pass across from Arakhan State to China.

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A Ta’ang Youth beaten by a Police sergeant admitted to hospital

On the first day of New Year in Myanmar, a Namhsan police officer, Aung Kyaw Lwin and his colleague handcuffed and beat Mai Naing Lynn, from Namawaw he was seriously injured and was taken to hospital suffering from head injuries.
On April 16^th, 2012 while the local people were taking part in the water festival, in font of Loi Sam Sip restaurant located in Namhsan Township. Naing Lynn’s friend threw water at a girl and as a result she fell off her motorbike, but she wasn’t wounded or anything and got back on her motorbike and carried on with her journey.
”She said that we were just playing with water in the festival therefore it didn’t matter but a boy who was an onlooker and the son of a local Militia leader, Ngun Sai, reported the incident to the police. Afterwards the police came by motorbike and handcuffed Naing Lynn while he was eating his meal and seriously beat him’’ reported one of the witnesses.
The policemen that handcuffed and beat Naing Lynn without informing him about the reason for his arrest at Loi Sam Sip restaurant had been drinking. Naing Lynn said he tried to explain the situation to the police but to no avail they just continued to beat him. Due to the police beating, Naing Lynn suffered severe head wounds and bruising to his entire body. He had to be sent to Namhsan general hospital where he was admitted as a patient.
Naing Lynn’s sister and her neighbor also witnessed the police sergeant himself brutally beating Naing Lynn. The neighbors tried to stop the police beating him but because the police were drinking they wouldn’t stop. When they arrived at the police station the police sergeant denied that he beat Naing Lynn with his baton.
Due to the severity of the beating Naing Lynn had to have 12 stitches in his head and he could not eat anything and was vomiting constantly. Yet, no police officer came to take care of him although they were responsible for inflicting his injuries.
The police sergeant asked the girl to press charges but she said that “I will not press charges as it happened in good jest at the time of the water festival”. Later a Namhsan police officer said that if the patient doesn’t register a complaint to the police then he will cover all his medical costs; however Naing Lynn has not accepted this offer and will take his case to court.


 

Ta'ang Students and Youth Organization
www.palaungland.org/eng

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Two villagers were forced to carry provisions and weapons with their horses

In March 22th 2012, 7am local time, about 30 soldiers from battalion 501 Kyaukme forced to porter two Narawlay villagers Mongton Township, northern Shan State and their horses to carry military supplies and weapons.
“They ordered the village elders to give two horses and people. Thus, we sent A Naing 26 and U Saidaw 34 year old and two horses” said the village elders.
The two porters had to go with the Burmese soldiers to the Panyaung village which it’s far about 3 miles by feet and their horses curried the military equipment and weapons.
“Not only did both of us have to bring our food but we also had to bring food for the horses. Then, they often asked about the KIA, SSA, and TNLA” said the porters.
The government battalions such as 130 Mangton, 114 -115 Naungcho, 324 Namtu, and 501-502 Kyaukme base in turn taking securities at the Manmai, Naawgyi, Nawlay, Mansat, Manaung, Panyoung, and Tawnay villages within Mongton Township. They often force to take horses from the villagers and porters to indicate from one village to another.
Especially, most male adults go to towns, forests, or another place for hiding and are not dare to stay in villages as they worry the Burmese soldiers would come. By the scare of the Burmese militaries, many people avoid their hometowns and don’t come back to pick up the tea even it is the time of Shwe Pe Oo.

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Two innocence villagers were arrested and tortured by Burmese military

Not only did the Burmese militaries baste Noungkaungloud villagers but they also tied them one night at Vainpard village.
In March 20^th 2012, the Noungkaungloud villagers Aloum 17 and Aung Then 18 year old Namtu Township, Kyaukme Province, northern Shan State were basted by the military which came from forests and can be opiated the Laisho battalion said the most concern people.
“It happened when we went to work at Lonbala (Vainpard) village. About 30 Burmese soldiers came out from forest when we arrived at the Vainpard village and they stop and asked us about the KIA. They blamed on us that we have communication with KIA and forced us to accept on their blaming. After that, they tied both of us the Vainpard and say we will be released tomorrow” said the basted people.
Not only didn’t the Burmese soldiers release the villagers but they also seriously basted both of them even the Vainpard village headman said they are not KIA soldiers and don’t communicate with that armed group during the arresting.
Both of their bodies are seriously warm after they released and now, they are taking medical check at their hometown Noungkaungloud village.

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Asking money from the farm owners instead of destorying poppy

Local correspondent police, border guards, and military security force to ask money from poppy owners even the opium cultivation increase intensively around the Pansay, Karhlaing, Kaungkhar, Nampharkar, and Tarmoenyai villages, Kutkai Township, northern Shan State.

“There are about 60 Tarmoenyai, 40 Nampharkar, 80 kaungkhar, 50 Karhlaing and 20 acres of opium plantation at the Pansay village, Kutkai Township” said a police sourced from the record of the police station.
The local authorities don’t take serious action and clean the poppy at the current opium plantation areas. On the other side, the police, military securities, and border guards often take money from the poppy owners continue informed by the police.
The acres of the poppy cultivation mentioned above are recorded in close areas by the police but a lot of opium plantation can be probably found in another places.
Many local people know that Kutkai Township plants the highest poppy farm and sell the biggest number of opium. Then, the representatives of Union Solidarity and Development Police of Kutkai Township themselves also involve in the opium smuggling according to the “Still Poison” report which released by the Palaung Women’s Organization.

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Youth avoid the recruiting of new soldiers

Since the beginning of January 2012 to the present, the young people in the local Ta’ang villages, Namtu Township, northern Shan State have avoided from their hometowns as the recruiting of Shan State Army.

“Started from the January, I have noticed the Shan State Army – South has collected new soldiers at the Ta’ang villages such as Pai Ta Byay, Pai Loun and others between Namtu and Hsipaw Townships in monthly. Parents allowed their children went to the China-Burma border for hiding because they didn’t want to lose their sons and made them harm. I recognize about 70 Ta’ang young have run to the border” said one of the Ta’ang Youth’s filed workers.
It is the reason of the collecting of new soldiers; the avoided people have to struggle for their daily food even they face with any kinds of difficulties, they are afraid to go back their native land.
This amassing for new soldiers and increasing the armed numbers could probably create the populace to misunderstand the SSA-S as it has inked for the ceasefire with the national peace making group of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. On the other side, local people analyze that the trusting on the civilian government is so weak.

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A junior battalion commander killed two villagers

A junior battalion commander from Infantry Battalion 130 based in Manton Township, northern Shan State killed two innocent villagers.
On March 13^th 2012 at 8pm local time, U Ait Shain from Moelone village and U Ait Sou from Moenye village in Mantong Township, Kyawmae province and both 42 years old were shot dead and died instantly by the junior battalion commander of Infantry Battalion 130 said local people.
“They didn’t do anything wrong, the junior battalion commander shot them for no apparent reason. Then he threatened the villagers saying that if they spoke out about what happened they too would be shot” said a local villager.
The villagers said that the military has already tried to cover up the story to the outside world.

Military training in this area has increased and the ethnic armed groups have joined together (TNLA, SSA, KIA) in fighting the Burmese soldiers, near Manthong Township. Thus, the villagers are often subject to torture and threats by the Civilian Government’s Military as they accuse the people are giving information to their ethnic enemies.
Still looking for the next process….

Information and Human Rights Documentation Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Ta’ang Sayadaw honored with prestigious religious title

On March 12^th-13^th 2012, the local people of Namkham honored Dakhinanyon Sayadaw as he was awarded the Buddhist religious title of Agga Maha Saddhammajotika.


The ministry of religious affairs conferred Dakhinayone Sayadaw with the title of Agga Maha Saddhamajotika. This award is the second time he has been honored with a religious title.
The respected Sayadaw is one of 7 people that have compiled Ta’ang literature. He is still alive and well at the age of 80 and at the Buddhist lent of 60.
 “His responsibilities are vast. He is a member of  the Shan State Sanga council, a president of Namkham Sanga council, advisory in Namkham, head of association of a religious sect, a member of master Mahasi meditation center, Ta’ang( Palaung) compiler, Ta’ang( Palaung) Tar Htun Pyant group Sayadaw and a member of the orphanage committee. The Sayadaw is deserving of the award in accordance with his good deeds” reported one monk from Mandalay that attended the ceremony

Sayadaw serves not only for Sasana but also in social activities. It is fitting that he receives the honor due to his many years of good works in the community.
At the ceremony, thousands upon thousands of people attended along with over 150 monks. This ceremony was led by the Muse Province department of religious affairs and theTa’ang culture and literature committee along with well-respected Namkham leaders.

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Fighting with Burmese Military after peace talks

After just two days of peace talks between a government delegation and the Kachin Independence Organization, both sides were again fighting each other.
 “The government troops and the Kachin Independence organization were locked in battle in Nam Haing village, Montong Township for two hours this is the longest battle within the comrade 8 ”according to one of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army officers.
One of the TNA officers reported that “Usually the fighting is staged in short battles of about 10 to 15 minutes. However this battle started from 4 pm and ended at 6 pm in which a massive amount of government troops were killed but  we don’t details of the exact amount killed yet.”

Both sides of the delegation talked from the 8^th to the 10^th of March. They released a statement with 5 main points. On the fourth of point states; that each side will reduce the intensity of battle as a consequence of the talks peace.
The Burmese government continually talks of peace but at the same time they are still engaging in conflict. This highlights  the fact that their talk is purely superficial and this does nothing to build trust with the ethnic communities.

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Recruited in Ta’ang autonomous region by Shan State Reform Council

The Southern Shan State Army, known as the Shan State Reform council has recruited and increased the amount of soldiers  in Namshan township, a Ta’ang autonomous  region.

In the third week of February 2012 the SSRC marched to Namshan with over 300 soldiers. When they arrived there they collected protection money and new recruits especially in Pain Long, Pansari and Myo Thit.
 “In the process the SSRC already collected at least 300 villagers in the vicinity of these three villages. They will form their new company and regiments. Recently they have already set up camp” according to a local leader.
 “Before they made an agreement with the Burmese government they acted only guerrilla tactics. They did not collect protection money from the people and they did not dare to act as they do now.  Presently they take more significant  action in collecting protection money as well as recruiting over 300 villagers “  reported by a major of Myo Thit village.
The enlarged SSRC has already ratified with the central delegation .The SSRC and the Burmese government military often fought against each other in skirmishes within Namshan Township, a Ta’ang autonomous region. Not only have they had combat with the Burmese troops in Pain Lwai village on March 11^th 2012 but also between Man Naut and Pan Swe village on March 12^th 2012.

Last year in 2011, massive amounts of Ta’ang people’s income were affected by this fighting between Southern Shan State Army and the Burmese government which caused the Ta’ang economy to collapse.  This year’s tea harvest is coming soon and because of the fighting the people are faced with the same problems as last year. Simultaneously, the tea business is the main livelihood of Ta’ang people therefore all Ta’ang people are really worried about what will happen.

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Money-Grubbing by Local Municipal officers and Chairman of quarter 8

In the first week of January, 2012, U Hting Kyaw, head quarter 8, Kutkai town, along with municipal officers pilfered a massive amount of money that was granted by the government for construction according to a person who is closed with authority.
The regional government provided for the No 4 street to be a paved in concrete but the municipal and the quarter administrators repaired the No3 street that was already concreted and then the rest of money they shared between each other.
“I asked the civil servants who work at the headquarter office and the municipal office that how much the grant was from the regional government and how much the municipal officer spent on construction but no one could tell me exactly. That was really amazing because I was thinking why they concrete the No.3 Street again instead of No.4 that is really rough” said one of villager in Quarter (3).
 “U Htin Kyaw lives on No 3 street therefore the municipal officers made it smooth but they did not repair the street that is in real need of repair as it is a popular street’’  said one of the local villagers.

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Local people are causing trouble to the USDP’s road project

Starting from December 2012, the Union Solidarity Development Party often asked money from local people during the building of the Kutkai- Karhlaing road in KutKai Township, northern Shan State.
The village headmen at the Kutkai-Karhlaing road said we have to pay for the accommodation cost of the local construction workers, reconnoiters, and two seniors from the USDP who oversee the daily construction even though the government has already given the money for the cost of the road construction.
“We have to feed the police, USDP, and other road construction workers when they come to measure, directing, and build the road. It sometimes causes problems. We are grateful to the people who build the roads for us but no one can abide when this kind of corruption happens. We just pray for this construction to finish” said a local elder.
The local Kutkai-Karhlaing road which is about 8 miles long was already tarmacadam but they were repairing the road. However the USDP still asks money from the local people they began in December 2011 and it is now March but it still hasn’t been completed yet.
“The USDP use government finance like their own money. They already got about 4,000 Kyats for petrol every day and salaries for their office but they just keep the money in their pockets and continue to ask money from the local villagers near the road construction” said a local villager. 

There are about 10 Ta’ang villages around the local Kutkai-Karhlaing road. This kind of behaviors and misappropriated financial action creates high tax for people. The Kutkai civilians said these behaviors can affect the dignity of USDP who said they are following a democratic system.

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Dispute between Asia World and Aung Chan Tar Restaurant

In the second week of February 2012 the families around the Aung Chai Tar restaurant at the exit of Kutkai Township suffered as a dispute occurred between the restaurant owner and Asia World Company that builds the highways between Mandalay and Muse in the northern Shan State.
The Aung Chan Tar restaurant is located on the highway between Muse and Mandalay. In order to stop disruption for customers when digging drains, the company staffs and the shop owner had negotiated to dig the drains as soon as possible as so that customers would stop for longer at the restaurant. However, a problem started to occur after a worker at Asia World Company reported this agreement to one of their friend who is a military commander in Lashio. It created a rumor that restaurant owner was slandering Asia World Company and was only trying to make money from the deal.
“A staff said that we went to negotiate at the shop to help us dig the drains as quick as they can. This is because we don’t want the digging of the drains disturbing the customers. However, I don’t know what happened between them next. The company didn’t dig the drains around the shop and it said that you must dig the drains by yourself and then you will be charged if you won’t dig them” said a local person living near the shop.

Finally, the local people nearby had to dig the drains by themselves including the owner of Aung Chan Tar restaurant. The cost of digging the drains made it difficult for normal local people even though it wasn’t as expensive for the restaurant as they have a good turnover in their business said the same local person.
The Asia World company is digging drains on the left side road between Mandalay and Muse to make the water drain more easily thus preserving the highway.

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TNLA, KIA, and SSA together Bombed Burmese battalion (130

On March 2^nd 2012 at 4pm local time, Manton based Infantry Battalion (130) were bombed as they made their way to Moemade. The Battalion commander got seriously injured along with many soldiers. 
 “Our Ta’ang National Liberation Army, KIA, and SSA cooperatively fought them. Two mines exploded as they came in two cars to Moemes village between Manton and Moemade. Two soldiers died and about 10 soldiers were seriously injured including the Battalion Commander” said a correspondent from TNLA.

An eyewitness commented that the injured Battalion Commander was brought by a helicopter to the military hospital in Laisho.
 “Now, the security in Manton Township (Palaung autonomy area) is very tight. Many soldiers have descended on the town and are continually checking people’s comings and goings. When visitors come to town they are questioned as to their purpose for entering the town. I think the situation will become more complicated” said a Manton local.
The Burmese columns were attacked about 12 miles outside Moenes village while on their way in two cars to Loiyar village. The battalion commander’s right-hand man with a ranking of three stars on his left hand side died and three soldiers were taken for a medical check in Manton hospital; said a hospital staff.
Fighting has once again commenced in the Manton area where they had previously had peace for over 20 years. This brings uncertainty; worry and instability for the local people in the area. They are really scared because of the case of the seriously injured battalion commander, which could potentially make things worse for the local people.
Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Ta’ang Students and Youth meet with “88” Student Leaders

On February 28^th 2012, Ta’ang Students and Youth met with the former 88- Generation student leaders at No.41 Street, guest house, in Mandalay, Burma.
“We held a meeting with Ko Ko Gyi and Ko Min Zayar who were recently released from prison, we mainly discussed the current situation of the Ta’ang people how they are struggling for their daily livelihoods. We wanted the student’s leaders know about what is happening so they can lend their support to us” said a Ta’ang student.
Ta’ang Students and Youth were welcomed by the former 88- students and had a great meeting which lasted about two hours. In the meeting, Ta’ang students and youth spoke about their goals, activities and the situation in Ta’ang areas.
“We have been seeing some progress in Burma, we requested some advice from them on how we could improve on our current course in order to better achieve our goals and we also discussed how we could cooperate and work together to bring about democratic change in Burma” said the leader of Ta’ang students and Youth.

Ko Ko Gyi encouraged the Ta’ang Students and Youth to keep up their work and to be proud of what we are doing to address the Ta’ang people’s needs and to ease their suffering. Even though there are several problems we need to solve, we should work to our strengths and continue our progress step by step. This was the first such meeting for Ta’ang students and Youth with the former 88-student leaders.
They agreement to meet again soon and work together for the future of Burma.
Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Dismissed Government Workers Struggle for their Survival

In December 2011, 90 mining workers were dismissed from their job without any compensation by the Namtu’s mining authorities in Bawdwin section, Namtu Township, Northern Shan State, Burma.
All the dismissed workers are now struggle to find work and live hand to mouth on a daily basis.
“Even though, we don’t have a daily job or we don’t have regular income, we have to pay our rent. Therefore, its very difficult to provide for our families. As a result, some families cannot support the cost of their children’s education” said by one of the dismissed miners.

Before the miners were dismissed from their jobs, they stayed at the government’s apartments rent free. But after the government sold Bawdin Mining to Asia World Company Limited, the miners are not allowed to stay without paying rent. Even though the law in Burma states that; workers that are dismissed in Burma have the right to get paid three times their monthly salary as compensation before they can be legally dismissed.  This rule was made by the government but they ignore it time and time again when it applies to them.
Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Laborer Killed in Crane Accident on Gas Pipeline Project

A casual laborer was killed in a crash with a crane while loading gas pipes onto a truck in Sengkhawn village, Namtu Township, Northern Shan State, Burma.
The victim, who died at the gas pipeline project, was living at Thaung Kyar Thar government apartments. However, the Gas Pipeline’s construction company has not taken any responsibility for this accident. The local authorities have also not taken any legal action so far.
Around the Namtu Township, CCE are one of the main companies leading the implementation of the Shwe Gas pipeline project. Also, Namtu’s town governor, land survey officers, police, Burmese soldiers and Chinese technical staff support this company in carrying out its work. All of the gas pipes are stored in the NarNaw village in their temporary camp which is land previously confiscated by the CCE company.

Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Forced Labour in Namtu

Residents who live in Block-8 of Namtu Towns, Northern Shan State, were forced to carry equipment for the Gas pipeline’s construction by the local chairman named U Mya Maung and his colleagues. The order was given by U Chit Lwin, a member of the Union Solidary and Development Party (USDP).

“At least one member of each family was forced to carry the equipment, not only that but we also had to bring our own food. The men had to dig drains for the pipeline whereas women had to carry bricks and other equipment needed for construction. If we didn’t go, we would be fined. Therefore, in my Block, because we wouldn’t have been able to afford to pay the fine we all carried out the instructions given to us” sourced from a local man who was subjected to the forced labour.
On February 14^th to 15^th 2012, all the local residents in Namtu Town forced to work as volunteers but for the villagers that live beside the pipeline project they are subjected to these orders to work on a continual basis and without receiving any payment.  The local people have said that during working time, even if they were very tired carrying things and digging drains, they were not prohibited from taking a rest.  Namtu Police, Infantry Battalion 324 are in charge of the security around the construction areas.

Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Innocent Villager Beaten

On February 13^th 2012, a Maisein villager namedMai Ah Naing was beaten by a sergeant of Infantry Battalion 324 which is based in Namtu Township, Northern Shan State, Burma. It began when the sergeant demanded money from Mai Ah Naingto pass with his motorbike which contained 7Kgof Orchids.

“Mai Ah Nainghad brought back the orchids togrow it at his home which he tried to explain to the sergeant that Orchids were for personal use and not to sell. However, the sergeant refused to reason with him and he demanded him to pay 50,000 Kyats. As the result, when Mai Ah Naingdidn’t have enough money to pay the sergeant beganto viciously beat him several times until his nose was bleeding and he was left stunned. In the end, the sergeant let him go back home without paying the money” said a witness.
According to the local people, Mai Ah Naing is not a orchid trader and he is only a villager and just like to grow flowers at his home.
The soldiers who are in the InfantryBattalion 324, located at the entry of Namtu town, continually demand money from car drivers, Motorcyclists and passengers for no good reason.
Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Increased military presence affects locals living near the Shwe Gas and Oil pipeline project

Local people from Namhkam and Namtu Townships are being subjected to travelling longer distances in order to get to their destinations as a result of the Burmese soldiers who are in charge of security for the Shwe Oil and Gas-pipeline There is not only an increase in check points, but the soldiers continually questions the villagers.
A local villager commented that on Maimaw’s Market day, on February 4^th there were over two hundred soldiers that toured around the market turning it into a sea of green uniforms. It looked like there were more soldiers there than local people. This is a prime example of the massive increase of military presence in the area.
“Today, I was very unhappy because the soldiers were continually looking at the things that we were buying. In the pork shop there were ten soldiers standing and questioning everybody on their purchases, if we bought over 1.5kg of meat they asked why we bought this amount and what do we plan to do with it along with several other questions. I had to buy over one 100kg of pork for my nephew’s wedding reception, I couldn’t get it for fear of questioning from the soldiers and had to make do with buying mustard and bamboo shoots” said a villager.
Local people have said that Chinese companies pay 5,000 Kyats per day to the soldiers for security around the Gas and Oil pipeline and it is rumored that the higher ranked military personnel are being paid at least 10,000 Kyat per day. The soldiers in this area come from Kyaume and Namtu battalions.
Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Villagers forced to take responsibility of security for imminent visit of region’s presedent

Villagers were forced to be sentries by the Ta’ang autonomous region’s president, U Maung Kyaw and his colleagues during trips to check reports of land confiscation by Fry Dragon tea-drying industry. They also plan to come and listen to a religious sermon in Lun Thout village on February 4, 2012, Namhsan Township, Northern Shan State, Burma.
“I have been forced to take security for the whole night from February 3 to 4 in the jungle. I was given no support, I could only eat when a family member came to feed me” said one of the sentries.
For U Maung Kyaw’s trip, the villagers, who come from Upper Manloi, Lower Manloi and Thaungkyaw Villages, were forced to provide security for him and his colleagues.
According to the local news, there was anonymous armed group activity around Namhsan and Mangton Townships, leaving Burmese soldiers and Militia groups afraid to take responsibility for the trip. They just forced villagers to take over. In the end, U Maung Kyaw’s trip was canceled as the villagers reported that they have seen armed groups crossing through the village.
As regards to the land confiscation, the alleged perpetrator is U Hla Shwe, who is a major of the Fly Dragon tea-drying industry. It was announced that in order to begin growing the new tea plantations they would have to impound 500 acres of local Ta’ang ancestral land in Manloi quarter, upper Manloi village, Namshan Township, Nothern Shan State. There are approximately thirty-nine families that will lose their ancestor’s lands but also four families that lost their tea farms of about 10 acres.
Although the land owners already complained and reported the issue to the Lashio authorities, they have not had any response. Therefore, they tried to report it to the Ta’ang National Party again.

Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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SSA soldiers extort money from NAG Staff

Network Activities Group’s (NAG) staff were threated and were made to give money to the SSA’s soldiers on their way back from helping Panhka’s refugees who were fleeing from the fighting and are now located in Hopan village on January 21^st 2012 in Mantong Township, Kauytme District, Northern Shan State, Burma. 
According to the case, When U Zaw Min Aung, who is the leader of NAG, and his four staff based in Mantong Township returned from helping Panhka’s refugees (178 people), the Shan soldiers pointed their guns to them and demanded money from them.
“The soldier spent a long time interrogating us they then ordered that one of my Shan friends join them to be a soldier. After several questions, they started to demand money from us and finally we had to pay ten thousand kyats in order to continue with our journey. As a villager said, these soldiers are the ones who take responsibility for the commissariats but the rest of the SSA soldiers are in the forest” said by the NAG’s staff.

Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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Locals who refused to pay electricity bills sent to prison

The local people in Namtu have to pay extra tax for using electricity by the order of the Namtu’s Ministry of Electricity in Northern Shan State, Burma. They also collect a fee of one thousand Kyats monthly for maintenance of the Meter box even though it is illegal for the authorities to do this.
“It already specifies that customers need to pay twenty five kyats per unit of electricity, but the Minister of electricity collects thirty five Kyats per unit. Therefore, local people are extremely unhappy and have refused to pay their electricity bill” said a Namtu local.
As a result, the residents were fined fifty thousand kyats and their electricity was also cut off by the local ministry of electricity. Although some residents begged and pleaded with the authority, they got no response.
On January 15^th, delegates from the Ministry of electricity and local police arrested U Pay Thoung, U Ko Han and U Hla Thin as they refused to pay their electricity bill.
“People from the electricity department and police came into our home and arrested my father using handcuffs. They didn’t allow us to explain or sort out the problem and my father was put in prison for a month and fined fifty thousand kyats. I know of another two people who were subjected to the same ordeal as my father” said by family member of the victim.
On December 8^th 2011 at the parliamentary meeting in Nypiadaw an act was passed to increase the cost of electricity per unit. This came in to action in January 2012.

Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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School has been closed in war zone

Due to the continual fighting between the KIA and the Burmese Military in Northern Shan State especially in Ta’ang autonomy areas as well as in seven villages, the primary schools in these regions have been closed since the first week of December, 2011.
“As my children missed school, they have to repeat the same class next year. We don’t know what to do because the teachers are not coming and the local education minster hasn’t tried to resolve the problem even though they are due to take their final exams this month” explained by a parent of a student.
During the academic year of 2011-2012, students only studied from June until the end of July because of the fighting in this area. The teachers were also afraid and went back their homes. Most of teachers are from central Burma. After they left, some schools closed and some are still hoping for their return.
In seven Ta’ang villages, they are over 200 students missing out on school, among them are: Panlong village with 60 students, Mansar village with 18 students, Manyoung village with 20 students, Hkauoi with 6 students and Manmaung village with 20 students.
Although the final exam will held in February 2012, U Thin Ngwe, who takes responsibility as local education minister of Mantong Township, doesn’t come and address the issue. Although he is the one that had been forcing students to buy school materials in all schools within Mantong Township.

Human Rights Documentation and Information Department
Ta’ang Students and Youth Organization

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No legal action has been taken against the perpetrators who are members of Pansay Militia group and brutally murdered an innocent Palaung villager.

Media Release

Militia group led by Qian Lu and Qian Kwae Shin based in Pansay, Nanhkan Township, Mu Se Distirct in northern Shan State handcuffed U Aik Htaut Naing (aka) U Naing Swae and brutally beat him to death. The victim lived in Phar Pyant village, Saenay village track, Nanhkan Township.

About 1 pm on January 3, 2012, about 60 soldiers of Light Infantry Battalion # 507 under the command of Maj Myat Tun Lin based in Lashio, northern Shan State and 20 members of Pansay militia group led by Qian Lu and Qian Kwae Shin came to Phar Pyant village, Saenay village track, Nanhkan Township. They then summoned all the villagers including women and children to gather at U Paw Htein's house. U Aik Htaut Naing (aka) U Naing Swae proclaimed himself as a reserved member of Mong Wee militia unit, having believed it would prevent them from taking harsh action against the villagers. Qian Kwae Shin, one of the leaders of Pansay militia group, asked him to put on his uniform if he was a member of the proclaimed militia unit. U Aik Htaut Naing (aka) U Naing Swae went back to home and wore the uniform. Then he returned to the gathering place. Without asking any question, he was handcuffed and repeatedly beaten up by wooden stick by Qian Lu, another leader of Pansay militia group. Quain Lu wore the Pansay militia uniform at the time of accident happened.

According to the witness, U Aik Htaut Naing (aka) U Naing Swae who remained handcuffed, was shot at his right butt by gun at about 2 pm, after having beaten up badly.

“ No ones allowed to see U Aik Htaut Naing (aka) U Naing Swae after he got shot. Not only his relatives, but also medics were not allowed to give him treatment. He was tied at his back under the Daw Mar Book's house where solider from LIB # 507 stationed. At about 6 am on January 4, 3 members of Pansay militia group led by Qian Lu and Qian Kwae Shin, dragged him near to the fence of U Paw Kaw's house. Then they beat him with the fire wood on his forehead for one time and by the fire wood on his forehead and three times on back of his head until his brain blown off. They got the handcuff off from the dead body and dumped the body at the outside of U Paw Kaw's fence,” said an eye-witness.

In addition to the inhumanly torture and killing of U Aik Htaut Naing (aka) U Naing Swae, LIB # 507 soldiers and members of militia group, went house by house including monastery, and looted all the valuable belongings of the villager including money, food, chicken and etc. The net value of the confiscated goods was 3,330,101 Kyat.

Pansay U Kyaw Myint won the parliamentary seat in the 2010 election because of vote-rigging. Pansay Kyaw Myint (aka) drug kingpin as locally known became a leader of militia unit which between 300 to 400 members in 1979 and reportedly got involved in opium growing and trafficking in Paysay area. Now he commands thousands of militia unit members who have officially been armed.

This is a horrible human rights violation that the members of militia group brutually tortured and killed an innocent villager, U Aik Htaut Naing, instead of protecting the villagers.

We, Palaung Women Organization, and villagers, strongly called for justice for the victim and take action against the murderers who committed inhumane act.

The government has been investigating the case.

Palaung Women Organization

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Over 500 Palaung Internally Displaced Persons still in need of aid

Due to fighting between Burmese government troops and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Bamor District, Mansi Township and Man Lwae village in Kachin State since December, many Palaung IDP’s are in need of help and aid.
On January 26 2012, twenty Palaung IDP’s came from Man Lwae village to the TNP office in Namkham Township.

“There were twenty Palaung IDP’s who fled here from Man Lwae village, Kachin State because of the instability in their area. They asked the TNP to help them in order to be able to come and stay in Namkham Township. If the TNP doesn’t help those IDP’s, they will be in trouble” – TNP member.

Even if those 306 Palaung IDP’s go back to their villages in the future, they will still need support for their rehabilitation.

“In Namkham Township there are currently 306 Palaung IDP’s in the TNP office, including 200 women. Currently they have food, clothes and health supplies, but we can’t cover their transportation costs and their rehabilitation when they arrive in their village” - Secretary of TNP.

According to our investigations, 196 Palaung IDP’s seeking refuge in Pang Lone village, Namkham Township since December 2011, have received no aid.

“There are 196 Palaung IDP’s in Pang Lone village who have yet to receive aid. There are around 120 women and children and 70 men. We could only provide a few supplies like rice and oil, so we are worried about those IDP’s in more rural parts of Namkham Township because we can only take responsibility for those staying in the town. Palaung IDP’s staying in some villages couldn’t get aid as the village is far away from the town” - secretary of Ta’ang committee group set up to help Palaung IDP’s.

Palaung Women’s Organization (PWO)

Information Documentation and Research Department

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