62 people connecting to AA-related cases released, but not 3 minority leaders

Although the military council has released 62 people, who were arrested and prosecuted on suspicion of being associated with the Arakan Army (AA), three minority leaders are yet to be  released.

One of them is identified as U Aung San, a  Christian teacher from Thukha Myanmar church. The Chin national traditional healer from  Ann  township has been charged under section  17 (1) of the unlawful
association act.

The other two have been recognized as U Hami Tu Song (60 years old administrator of Mikyung Htet Muslim village) and U Kyaw Hla, a Dainet national and the administrator of Tet Main Chaung village under Buthidaung township. Both of them have been prosecuted under sections 17(1) and 17(2) with accusation of collecting money for the AA.

A family member of Aung San said that his  mother is waiting for his release. “We are also feeling sad. Aung San should be released soon,” he added.

Aung San was arrested by the  junta forces on 7 October 2022. He is a Christian pastor and maintains no relations with the politics, added the family member.

Kyaw Hla’s son Ko Kyaw Win also called for his father’s release. “I am very happy for those who were released by the junta. Now I expect my father also be released at the earliest,” he added.

The other two arrested in September 2022 after they were summoned by the military battalion (234) based in Buthidaung township. Later they were sued under sections 17(1) and 17(2) of the unlawful association act.

There are still more than 100 Rakhine people behind the bars including social activists like U Zaw Win from Kyauktao and some other education workers, ward & village administrators and prominent businessmen. Demands have been raised for their release as well.