Junta forces arrest LGBT siblings from Kyaukphyu

The  junta forces  on 19 April have reportedly arrested an LGBT brother along with his sister from Kyaukphyu township of Rakhine State for allegedly sending food items to the Arakha Army (AA).

The arrested duo  Ko Maung Shay (aged 33) and Ma Nu Nu Shwe (43) hail from Say Poke Kay Htaunt village under Gone Chwein sub-township. They were arrested from their residence on 19 April at around 7 pm, said a local lady.

"The brother used to sell vegetables in the market and he is accused of sending food items to AA fighters. The sister is arrested with no such reason,” added the lady.

The local residents stated that both are LGBT.

Currently they are detained at Kyaukphyu police station. The family members are yet to be  allowed to meet them and hence they are worried.

The lady tried to visit both of them in the morning hours and brought clothes, medicines and other essential items, but the soldiers at Kyauk Ta Lone checkpoint denied her entry.

On 14 April, a Kyaukphyu-based school teacher was arrested by the soldiers for allegedly writing messages which were critical to the junta.

The  Kyaukphyu residents  have already expressed their angers over the strict travel restrictions and arrests of many individuals.