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