Tai4Freedom - SSA News

7 - Col.Moengzuen - Press Conference news.

Propaganda from the 'Ministry of Truth', 20th July 2006

Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein attends ceremony to mark return to legal fold of armed group led by U Mein Sin. Thanks to government´s goodwill endeavours, national race leaders´ cooperation Shan State is free from armed conflicts except in far-off areas.

NAY PYI TAW, 17 July — A ceremony to mark the return to the legal fold of a national race armed group led by Brigade (758) commander U Mein Sin with the rank of vice chief of staff from Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) who have abandoned armed struggle line took place at Thirihantha hall of Laikha in Shan State (South) yesterday morning.

Present on the occasion were Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein, member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win of the Ministry of Defence, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Thaung Aye, the ministers, the deputy ministers, senior military officers, the director-general of SPDC office, heads of departments, Dean of Diplomatic Corps Ambassador of the Philippines Madame Phoebe A Gomez and diplomats, resident representatives of UN agencies and officials, President of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club, members of Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, local journalists, members of Union Solidarity and Development Association, Women´s Affairs Organization, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, War Veterans Organization and other social organizations and local national races totalling over 1500. A total of 848 members led by Brigade (758) commander U Mein Sin with the rank of vice chief of staff from Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) were also present.

Similarly, SSA Brigade-1, SSA Brigade-7, SSNA (Mong yun), PNO, Ya La La Pha, MTA (Nar Rai), MTA (Mat Kyann), MTA (Shwepyiaye), SSS, Ka La La Ta, KNPDP, KNDP (Nagar), Ka Ma Sa Nya, Ka Yan Pyithit Party and KNG totalling 15 groups, which had returned to the legal fold attended it.

First, members of national race armed group led by Brigade (758) commander Mein Sin were warmly welcomed by members of departments and social organizations and local national races.

Later, Commander Brig-Gen Thaung Aye, Minister for Home Affairs Maj-Gen Maung Oo and Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt presided over the ceremony.

Brigade (758) commander U Mein Sin elaborated on their return to the legal fold, the acts of terrorism and drugs trafficking of SSA-S (Ywet Sit).

Clarification made by U Mein Sin is reported separately.

Next, deputy commander of Brigade (758) U Sai Ta made clarifications on the reason for the return to the legal fold.

Clarification made by U Sai Ta is reported separately.

Next, column commander U Sai Yone of Brigade (758) said he was glad to see the assistance of the government and the Tatmadaw. He said he would participate in the tasks for peace and security of the State, nation-building and regional development in cooperation with local people.

Clarification made by U Sai Yone is reported separately.

On behalf of the local people, Nan Hlaing Kham, spoke words of thanks.

Clarification made by Nan Hlaing Kham is reported separately.

Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Thaung Aye extended greetings to U Mein Sin and party.

Clarification made by Commander Brig-Gen Thaung Aye is reported separately.

Next, U Mein Sin and party handed over the arms and ammunition to the commander. The commander again presented the arms to U Mein Sin and party to be able to carry out security, stability and regional development tasks. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein presented gifts to U Mein Sin and U Sai Ta.

Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win presented gifts to column commanders U Sai Yone and U Tun Kyaw.

Commander Brig-Gen Thaung Aye gave presents to U Sai Khe and U Sai Sai of Brigade (758).

Minister Col Thein Nyunt presented two Mazada jeeps and two TE-21 trucks provided by the State to U Mein Sin.

Later, Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Htay Oo presented 20 power tillers provided by the State to U Sai Ta.

After the ceremony, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein inspected display of arms and ammunition brought by commander of Brigade (758) U Mein Sin and party.

The Secretary-1 and party cordially greeted members of Brigade (758) of Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) and local national races.

Members of national race armed group led by U Mein Sin brought 24 assorted heavy weapons, 834 small arms, 1990 magazines, 157,971 rounds of ammunition, 55 grenades, 63 mines, 15 communication sets and 120 walkie-talkies.

-----------------------------

Secretary-1 meets Brigade (758) commander Mein Sin (SSA-S) and members who have returned to the legal fold.

NAY PYI TAW, 17 July — Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein met Brigade (758) commander Mein Sin with the rank of vice chief of staff from Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) and members, who had returned to the legal fold, at the office of the local battalion in Laikha, Shan State (South) yesterday afternoon.

Also present at the call were SPDC member Lt-Gen Kyaw Win of the Ministry of Defence, Shan State PDC Chairman Eastern Command Commander Brig-Gen Thaung Aye, the ministers and deputy ministers.

Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary-1 said although all national brethren had been living in the country in unity and amity for many years, thedivide-and-rule policy of the colonialists caused misunderstanding between them, resulting in armed insurgencies. Due to armed clashes, lives and property of national people were lost and the State lagged behind development. So, with its commitment to national reconsolidation, the government has been able to persuade national armed groups to return tothe legal fold. And they are now joining hands with the government for regional development. It is heartening to see the regions that lagged behind progress in the past are gaining development momentum and living standards of local national races people are on the increase. The State is now in a position to enjoy peace and stability that was lost for over 50 years, the Secretary-1 added.

Next, he urged U Mein Sin and members to work together with the government and the people in order to fully enjoy regional peace and tranquillity, regional development and protection of law for the national people. Later, Commander Brig-Gen Thaung Aye and the ministers explained assistance to be rendered to U Mein Sin´s group.

All armed groups including group led by U Mein Sin, 17 major groups and small groups returned to legal fold after reaching total understanding with government SPDC Information Committee holds press conference on return to legal fold of national race armed group led by U Mein Sin.

NAY PYI TAW, 17 July — Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council held a press conference on the return to the legal fold of a national race armed group led by U Mein Sin, vice chief of staff of Shan State Army-South (SSA-S) and commander of brigade 758 at Thirihantha Hall in Laikha, southern Shan State, at 11 am yesterday.

Present were Chairman of SPDC Information Committee Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan and members, ministers, deputy ministers, senior military officers, Director-General of Myanmar Police Force Brig-Gen Khin Yi, heads of department, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Ambassador of the Philippines Madame Phoebe A Gomez and diplomats, resident representatives of UN agencies, the director (News) of News and Periodicals Enterprise, officials, the president of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club and members, executives of Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, chief editors and journalists of local periodicals, U Mein Sin and members of the group that returned to the legal fold, and specially invited guests.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan said that 848 members of the armed group led by U Mein Sin, commander of SSA-S brigade 758 had returned to the legal fold laying down their heavy weapons and small arms. Brigade commander U Mein Sin, deputy commander U Sai Ta and column commander U Sai Shan have already explained their aim of returning to the legal fold. Now the question and answer session begins. Every one can ask questions.

U Aung Hla Tun of Reuters asked whether U Mein Sin and group would be permitted to hold arms again, the place they are going to settle down, the number of armed groups that is allowed to hold arms and the number of groups that made the unconditional surrender.

Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan said that U Mein Sin and group handed over their arms to the respective local authorities. The local authorities rearmed them with their own weapons for self-defence. Because Ywet Sit sent letters of threat to U Mein Sin and members while they were trying to return to the legal fold. In the letters were written that if U Mein Sin and members returned to the legal fold he would kill or take action against all their parents, families and relatives. Ywet Sit sent couriers to Mein Sin to dissuade him and his men. Thus, they are allowed to hold arms.

In the past they held arms against the rules and the law, but under their own arrangements. Now they are holding arms in accord with the law of the State. Today they are holding arms to carry out constructive tasks for the entire nation including the local people. Since their initial discussion with local authorities, U Mein Sin and members proposed to work together with the government for regional development after returning to the legal fold. U Mein Sin and members will continuously strive for regional development while defending them-selves and their region. That is the reason they are being rearmed.

U Mein Sin also said that the government asked their wish when they returned to the legal fold. They presented their wish to the government. They are going to settle in Narpwe and Wanpan villages.

The Information Minister said the number of major groups returned to the legal fold are 17 in addition to many small armed groups. So, it can be said that most of the groups have unconditionally ex-changed arms for peace. The PSLO led by U Aik Mone and SSNA led by U Gon Khe came back to the fold in northern Shan State. Another is the national armed group led by U Kan Na.

U Aung Shwe Oo of NTV asked that as a large number of SSA-S members had returned to the legal fold, how many of the group were left underground. Is U Mein Sin the number two man or are there any others whose ranks are the same as U Mein Sin? According to what I have learnt, he is the second highest in rank and responsibility. In an article I have read that 13 or 14 groups have reached complete understanding. What does it mean? I wish to know the effects of their return on the legal fold on the National Convention and national re-consolidation and unity.

U Mein Sin said he and 848 members of the brigade returned to the legal fold on 6 July 2006. After the brigade broke away from the SSA-S, the Ywet Sit group in Lwetaishan has only about 1,000 members left. In the SSA-S, U Khe Ngin and he were in the same rank. Concerning the National Convention, the brigade will strive as much as it can for progress of the national races.

Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan said, it is only the presentation or opinion of the columnist which in the article said that 13 or 14 groups have reached full understanding with the government. All the armed groups including the group led by U Mein Sin, the 17 major groups and other small groups returned to the legal fold after reaching complete understanding with the government. According to the re-quirement including self- defence and regional development, the groups are permitted to hold arms. It is included in one of the agreements.

Another agreement reached between the government and all those groups is that when the Constitution emerges, they all must surrender their weapons. At that time, the order to lay down the arms is not made by the government, but by the democracy system the country will be practising at that time. It is the system that will make them lay down their arms. Only then will the nation be able to fully and correctly exercise the democracy. The agree-ment to do so has been reached between the government and the groups since the initial negotiations.

Concerning the effort of the brigade´s return to the legal fold, the minister said that there were many insurgent groups in the nation in 1988.

Because of the disunity, there were more than 230 political parties when the nation permitted their formation and legal existence.

All knew that how the national unity was badly required then. The Tatmadaw government after taking over the State duties knew that the national unity was a must. Peace, stability, and the rule of law, all are essential requirements for the nation. After analyzing the requirement fully, the Head of State opened the door towards peace and started to restore national unity.

Thanks to the peace initiatives, many insurgent groups including the group led by U Mein Sin, the 17 major armed groups and many small armed groups came back to the legal fold. Hence the nation has achieved the unprecedented national unity. The return to the legal fold of U Mein Sin and his group has further strengthened the national unity. Peace and stability will further cement the national solidarity in Laikha region in southern Shan State.

I think U Aung Shwe Oo´s second question is about the effects U Mein Sin´s return to the legal fold would have on the National Convention. More than 1,000 delegates from eight strata of mass and class are taking part in the National Convention and considerable strides have been made. We are going to write a draft constitution based on the success achieved so far.

On the other hand, there are some elements — KNU, Ywet Sit´s SSA group, KNPP and other expatriate groups — who are trying to hinder our efforts and make the National Convention end in failure. We hear that they are also drawing a constitution on their own. These insurgent groups are doing so to hinder the process of the National Convention.

Now that U Mein Sin and his 1000-strong battalion have returned to the legal fold, the number of groups that are against the National Convention has become less and less. In addition, peace is going to prevail all over the region where U Mein Sin and his members operated. Then they will be able to contribute towards the success of the National Convention. This is why the return to the legal fold by U Mein Sin and his members will surely benefit the National Convention. Thank you!

U Sao Kai Hpa : I would like to ask U Mein Sin a question about the amount of narcotic drugs produced by Ywet Sit´s SSA-S group.

U Mein Sin : MTA exchanged arms for peace on 27-2-96. Then, we held a meeting on 28-3-96. At that meeting, we all decided that we were not to be involved in drugs and politics and that involvement in drugs and politics could carry death penalty. Ywet Sit himself put his signature to all these decisions but he did not hounour them.

In July, 1996, Ywet Sit himself fetched some rich Chinese and engaged in production of drugs at the foot of the mountain range west of Katphew village in Mongkai. Again in 1997, with the help of some rich Chinese, he produced drugs in Naungtaw village. Moreover, Ywet Sit ordered that tax be collected on production of drugs in the area under the control of the brigade. As tax, opium had to be sent to him. Not only that, all the opium produced in the area had to be sold to him. As far as I know, from 5,000 to 6,000 viss of opium was collected as tax in 2006. Stimulant tablets and heroin were also sent via Mongshu to the border. As far as I know, 80 haversacks loaded with stimulant tablets and heroine were sent from Mongshu to the border.

U Aung Thu Myaing: I am U Aung Thu Myaing of Ji Ji News Agency (Japan). I would like to ask U Mein Sin that do you have any plan to participate in the fight against narcotic drugs in future as you are in Shan State (South)?

U Mein Sin: We will actively participate in the drive for drug elimination, for we reached an agreement with the government when we returned to the legal fold, and the terms of the agreement included some points including—to take part in the fight against drugs, to stamp out and crush the destructive elements, to jointly prevent the external dangers and to fully engage in regional development tasks.

U Ko Ko of Yomiuri Shimbun: The news of the returning to the legal fold of altogether 848 members led by Brigade Commander U Mein Sin was stated in the newspapers a week ago. As regards this news, some foreign broadcasting stations conducted an interview with Ywet Sit group which replied that the strength of those who have returned to the legal fold is as many as 30. Now at this press conference we witnessed a large number of members led by Brigade Commander U Mein Sin who returned to the legal fold. I would like to hear an answer replied by U Mein Sin himself concerning the number of those who returned to the legal fold.

U Mein Sin: In an interview with Ywet Sit group conducted by foreign broadcasting stations, the group replied that the strength of those who returned to the legal fold is as many as 30. Actually, the strength of our group who returned to the legal fold is 848. You can witness with your own eyes the strength of our group who returned to the legal fold at the ceremony.

In an interview with Ywet Sit group, they replied so with every intention of boosting morale of armed group members who were left behind in the border. It was also likely that they wanted themselves to be seen as a strong force but our group as a weak one. As a matter of fact, the strength of our group is over 1,000. We are now in the process of contacting and pursuing our members left behind. The total number of our group who returned to the legal fold is 848 together with 24 heavy weapons, 834 small arms.

U Thitsa Hla Htwe (TBS News Agency): I would like to know that like U Mein Sin group, are other armed groups in a position of returning to the legal fold?

Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan: The government is making all-out efforts for national development, prevalence of law and order in the nation and national consolidation. In the process, it always keeps the peace door open. At present, the government is opening the peace door with genuine goodwill and integrity. That is why some armed groups are making contact with the government in this regard. There seem to be two points concerning the returning to the legal fold of armed groups. The first one is concerned with the government. The government is patiently holding a discussion with the armed groups that are making contact with it for returning to the legal fold. Moreover, it has satisfied their demands to the most possible degree.

However, as the positions of the armed groups are different, their demands are different.

This being so, the government has to discuss and coordinate with them case by case according to their demands. Therefore, the efforts of the government are making progress with regard to the returning to the legal fold of the armed groups.

The second one is concerned with the armed groups who are making contact with the government for returning to the legal fold. They will make progress if they discuss and coordinate with the government on the basis of goodwill and sincerity in the interest of the State, the people and local people.

Diplomats, local and foreign journalists viewed the assistance provided by the government to the group led by U Mein Sin.

Return to legal fold by national race armed groups in Shan State is a glory for Shan State as well as the whole Union to see more fruits of development

j06_038 j06_037

NAY PYI TAW, 17 July — The following is a translation of a speech by Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Thaung Aye at the ceremony to mark the return to the legal fold by members of Brigade (758) of Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) led by commander U Mein Sin with the rank of vice-chief of staff.

The return to the legal fold by national arce armed groups in Shan State who rose against the government in the past is a glory for Shan State as well as the whole Union to see more fruits of development in the State. The local people and the government do welcome U Mein Sin and his members who have returned to the legal fold after realizing the correct policy and attitude and goodwill of the government which has visions of national consolidation and perpetuity of the Union. Besides, they deserve honour for putting their self-interest behind the public interest.

The local people who had to live in fear in the past will also warmly welcome U Mein Sin and members as their region is now free from armed clashes and sees the light of eternal peace. I believe that U Mein Sin and members will strive their utmost within the frameworks of law for regional development as a token of making up for the loss of time passing uselessly. The government on its part will render necessary assistance to them. The situation in Shan State 15 years ago was not very different from the situation over 50 years ago when the country regained its independence and the region lagged behind in development in almost all of the sectors such as transport, education and health. In addition, it lacked peace and stability due to armed conflicts and the people had to live in fear and below the poverty line. These are unforgettable bad dreams for the local people. To erase the bad history, the government since its assumption of State duties has been striving for national consolidation, putting an end to armed insurgency so as to restore regional peace and stability, development of transport, education, health and economic infrastructures, progress of socio-economic life of people and elimination of narcotic drugs.

Due to the government´s genuine goodwill, endeavours and cooperation of the national race leaders there is no armed conflict in Shan State except its far-flung areas and the regions in the state have developed. Local people in the region now enjoy the better results of peace and security and can also earn their living with peace of mind. Transport, economic, education, health and social foundations have emerged and standard of living of the people has improved.

He said local people and UN organizations have come to know the fact that there is gradual eradication of narcotic drugs in Shan State. However, all the local people are to make efforts for prevalence of complete peace and tranquillity in the entire Shan State.

He said destructive elements who do not want to see the restoration of peace and development in the Union including Shan State are still making instigation among the national races. Avoiding these instigation, the entire people are to make endeavours for development of the Union in accord with the expression "Unity brings prosperity of the nation."

The commander urged all national race armed groups to maintain the already-achieved peace and development with national solidarity spirit, the Union spirit.

In conclusion, he said U Mein Sin and party won the confidence, love and goodwill of peace-loving people and urged them to serve the interest of the regions and the nation in unity.

We decided to leave Ywet Sit group as we do not like drug trafficking, extortion of money and inhumane terrorist acts of Ywet Sit

I am deputy brigade commander U Sai Ta of SSA-S brigade-758 which returned to the legal fold. We coordinated with vice-chief of staff brigade commander U Mein Sin to return to the legal fold. We decided to leave Ywet Sit group as we do not like drug trafficking, extortion of money and inhumane terrorist acts of Ywet Sit. We received no assistance from Ywet Sit for our existence but all the extortion money and new recruits were to be sent to Ywet Sit. Thus we decided to discontinue joining hands with Ywet Sit.

I had served for many years in Ywet Sit group. During that period, new recruits were mobilized from each household in villages. Those who could not afford to come along as recruits had to pay money, otherwise they were killed. So, all male adults had to move to town and those who could not afford to go to town had to take refuge in monasteries as monks. The villagers had to pay money to satisfy the recruiting group. Otherwise, the villagers would be tortured and given troubles. And, SSA-S grew poppy and engaged in drug trafficking which is totally against the interest of Shan people and establishment of Shan State as they harangued. The Shan nationals had suffered much as new recruits and extortion money were collected by SSA-S. The SSA-S had done nothing beneficial to the Shan State. No bridge or school was built by the insurgents. All the extortion money were for Ywet Sit to womanize and spend lavishly. While we were having nothing and poor in the jungle, Ywet Sit was enjoying all the luxuries in Thailand. Moreover, Yewt Sit is anti-Bamar racist. A large number of Meethwaygon villagers, road construction workers and passengers were killed under the orders of Ywet Sit. They robbed passenger buses and killed Bamars randomly. They also raped women and robbed all the valuables. Such terrorist acts were truly atrocities. They also torched Pa-O villages including schools by accusing that those villages provided information to the Tatmadaw. They drove out Pa-O nationals from Shan State. Such acts were narrow-minded racism and we wanted to break away from Ywet Sit a long time ago. Our genuine desire is to see prosperity of Shan State and Shan people. In practice, our acts troubled Shan people. Thus finally we decided to return to the legal fold and joint hands with the Government to carry out development of Shan State. Thank you all.

We could not accept drug producing and trafficking by Ywet Sit. We were disappointed with terrorism of Ywet Sit.

I am Mein Sin, Brigade Commander of the Brigade SSA-S No. 758. I returned to the legal fold after making contacts with the Eastern Command on 6 July 2006. There are altogether 848 members who also returned to the legal fold including me. With us, we brought all the weapons that we have used such as 24 assorted heavy weapons, 834 assorted small arms, 1990 magazines, 157,971 rounds of ammunition, 55 hand grenades, 63 land mines, 15 communication sets and 120 walkie-talkies.

We returned to the legal fold of our own volition. The reasons for returning to the legal fold are as follows:

1. We could not accept drug producing and trafficking by Ywet Sit.

2. We were disappointed with terrorism of Ywet Sit for his cruelty on the people, massacring national people, setting villages on fire, committing rape against indigenous women, antagonizing Pa-O nationals and driving them out of Shan State.

3. We saw Tatmadaw and the people working together for the development of the regions, and realized peace and development through the establishment of Panglong University, Panglong Computer College and Panglong Government Technological Institute.

4. We realized that the practice of armed struggle line for over 20 years have brought no benefit but grave troubles to the people.

Concerning narcotic drugs, there are two policies laid down by SSA-S.

1. Firstly, narcotic drugs must not be connected with politics. If so, death penalty will be given.

2. Secondly, observance of discipline must not be infringed due to drugs. If one violates discipline, death penalty will be given.

These are the policies signed by Ywet Sit himself and he himself had violated them as clarified below.

(1) We were instructed to give security cover to his brother Saw Peta when he carried 80 haversacks of Yama pills from Mongshu area to Loitainglian in 2001. We refused to do so since it was not in accordance with the policy.

(2) It is learnt that Ywet Sit refined heroin near Kar Phwee village, Mong Kaing in 1996, near Nampan creek in 1997, and then near the border areas. I asked him three times not to do so, but it was in vain.

(3) 15 youths led by Sai Pan were given money by Ywet Sit to carry narcotic drugs from Loi Lam into Thailand in 2003. 13 of them were shot to death by Thai Forces. Sai Pan and one follower escaped. But fearing that action would be taken against him by Ywet Sit, Sai Pan committed suicide.

(4) Sai Tun, a trusted and the most favoured person of Ywet Sit was arrested by Thai Police as he carried 174 packets of heroin by car to Thailand in March, 2005.

(5) A Sa Line Khone villager, after being jailed for narcotic drug case, went to Loitainglian and received the instructions from Ywet Sit for refining narcotic drugs. After returning from Ywet Sit, he brought the instructions of Ywet Sit to produce heroin in Nar Yaing region, Loi Che region, San Ha region, Brigade No. (1) area, Brigade No. (7) area and in the area of my Brigade. I did not give him permission to produce heroin in my area and told him to go anywhere he could get permission. For this, Ywet Sit was so furious and said that he would kill me and all my relatives. After that he sent a message that he expelled the whole Brigade No 758 from SSA-S.

Now, I´ll continue to present the terrorist acts of Ywet Sit. In January 1997, according to the instruction of Ywet Sit, a group led by Aik Chit, set fire to the Meethwaygon (Bamar) village in Namsan township. They torched the village. Due to their random shootings, 13 persons were killed and 8 were wounded. In June 1997, they collected extortion money from over 30 passenger buses near the Nam Maw Kham village on Kunhein- Kengtung, motor road. Moreover, they raped women and also randomly killed Bamar people. Altogether 30 passengers were killed.

Besides, Ywet Sit circulated counterfeit currency of 500 kyat notes. But I did not know the exact place where he produced the fake money. In December 1997, he gave 10 million Kyats of counterfeit currency notes to Aik Aw who is a son of SSNA member U Pho Mar of Mong Kaing to buy gold in Mandalay. Aik Aw was arrested by authorities, we have learnt.

In 2005, Aik Chit group also set fire to Htitakhu, Nawngde, Mokkalut and Panmai villages in Po-O region, it is learnt. Besides, we heard over the communication set that Pa-O nationals were driven out of Shan State.

Ywet Sit collected Kyats 13 million to 15 million of extortion money from each ward in Mong Kaing town. In addition, he collected money for rice. He also borrowed money. He asked money for rice and borrowed money.

In February 2006, Ywet Sit seized 20 cattle smugglers of Shwenyaung and Hopong and killed 10 Danu nationals and two Chinese. He also confiscated 60 heads of cattle and 2.7 million Kyats. Relatives of those killed persons were still searching for the place where the dead bodies were buried as they wanted to collect their bones.

Although Ywet Sit has been committing drug trafficking and terrorist acts, he preached for democracy and assigned U Khun Kyar Nu with political duty. U Khun Kyar Nu has contacts with NLD in Yangon.

Thus, we have come to realize that if we continue to follow the armed struggle line, our prestige will be tarnished too. Moreover, the National Convention being held by the Government, the Tatmadaw and the people is being participated in view of ensuring Non-disintegration of the Union by national races as well as former armed groups which have returned to the legal fold. Now, we realize that the Government´s policy is correct and our armed struggle line is just harming the nation and the people. Thus, we have the desire to serve the people who had been suffering from the troubles caused by us.

So, my followers and I discussed the plan to join hands with the Tatmadaw and carry out nation-building tasks and earn our livelihood peacefully. We considered about it for some three years and finally all my men in unison returned to the legal fold.

Thank you all.

At present, the Government and the Tatmadaw provide necessary assistance to us for meeting our food, clothing and shelter needs

I am column commander Sai Yone of SSA-S brigade-758 which returned to the legal fold together with brigade commander Mein Sin. It took three years for us to manage to return to the legal fold. Due to hindrances made by Ywet Sit, we are able to return to the legal fold only now.

In returning to the legal fold, we encountered many difficulties. Ywet Sit ordered us to commit drug trafficking and kill against Bamars. But we refused to do so as narcotic drugs pose danger to entire mankind. Moreover, the killing of innocent people is out of narrow-minded racism.

I was recruited in MTA in the year 1992. However, I abhorred and was frustrated with collection of extortion money, mobilizing new recruits, committing killings and drug trafficking. When MTA group returned to the legal fold, I was left as I was not aware of it. Now I return to the legal fold in collaboration with Mein Sin. After returning to the legal fold, I am now feeling very peaceful. It is like I am having a full moon shining in my heart. Now I am very heartening because I can live together with my family; now I can give attention to my children´s education and health; and I can join hands with the Government in carrying out regional development works.

At present, the Government and the Tatmadaw provide necessary assistance to us for meeting our food, clothing and shelter needs. Agricultural and livestock breeding works are also being planned for our long-term interests. Thus, I am very happy.

In conclusion, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks for being welcomed very warmly by the Government, the Tatmadaw and the people. In reciprocation, I pledge to participate in national security, nation-building and regional development activities enthusiastically with the Government, the Tatmadaw and the people.

Thank you. --

I truly believe that our region is now free from dark clouds of insurgency and has ushered into the new era.

I am Daw Nang Hlaing Kham. Since the day I was born in this region, today is the most auspicious and happiest day for me as well as the people in this area. Because our brethren U Mein Sin and members who followed the wrong path in the past due to the divide-and-rule policy of the colonialists have returned to the legal fold. They returned to the light from the dark after realizing the truth and witnessing the nation-building endeavours of the combined force of the Government, the People and the Tatmadaw.

Since long time ago, our national brethern had been living peacefully together. Due to evil legacy of colonialism, some nationalities in Shan State followed the wrong path of armed insurrection. The stabality was harmed and the people had to suffer worries and difficulties.

Amidst the instability and gun fire, the local people could not enjoy the taste of peace. They had to pay various kinds of extortion money. Two-thirds of our earnings went to insurgents as extortion money.

With no education local people were pushed to feudalism, schools remained as mere huts. The education standard was low. Although the State opened rural health centres and sent health staff and midwives, they did not reach the rural areas due to insurgencies. The national people lacked health knowledge and their longevity was short. As regards religious affairs, existing old pagodas and temples came to decay. Religious affairs were not enhanced due to lack of monks. Regarding transportation, there were Leikha-Mongkaing-Pankaytu Road and Pankaytu-Kehsi-Mongshu Road linking southern and northern Shan States. However, due to massacres, collection of extortion money and robberies by insurgents, the national people dared not travel from one place to another and they had to suffer hardships.

Although there were insurgencies, the Government upgraded Shwenyaung-Yaksawk-Indaw-Kyaukgu-Nawngcho Road, the Hopon-Mongping-Kengkhan-Nawngwo-Thabawatada-Namlan Road, the Loilem-Leikha-Mongkaing-Pankaytu-Tonlaw-Hsipaw Road, the Kholan-Wansin-Mongnaung-Mongshu-Tangyang Road. Now, U Mein Sin group has returned to the legal fold, here our region will become prosperous with cultivating crops and trading of agricultural produce. In the past, school going age children could not go to school as they feared of being recruited by the insurgents.When they came of age they were forcibly recruited. Some young men who had entered novice-hood or monk-hood were even recruited by the insurgents. The families which had no boy in the family had to pay money.

Now, energetic endeavours are being made by the Tatmadaw for modernizing and developing the entire nation. It is known to all the national people. The former armed groups have come to realize that their armed struggle line gave troubles to the people. They also realized the genuine goodwill of the Govenment. Thus, they returned to the legal fold and participated actively in regional development works.

Now I truly believe that our region has now free from dark clouds of insurgency and has ushered into the new era.

Thanks to government´s goodwill endeavours, national race leaders´ cooperation Shan State is free from armed conflicts except in far-off areas

j06_is3 j06_is1 j06_is2

A ceremony to mark the return to the legal fold of a national race armed group led by Brigade (758) commander U Mein Sin with the rank of vice chief of staff from Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) who have abandoned armed struggle line took place at Thirihantha hall of Laikha in Shan State (South) .

First, members of national race armed group led by Brigade (758) commander Mein Sin were warmly welcomed by members of departments and social organizations and local national races.

Brigade (758) commander U Mein Sin elaborated on their return to the legal fold, the acts of terrorism and drugs trafficking of SSA-S (Ywet Sit).

Next, deputy commander of Brigade (758) U Sai Ta made clarifications on the reason for the return to the legal fold.

On behalf of the local people, Nan Hlaing Kham, spoke words of thanks.

Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Thaung Aye extended greetings to U Mein Sin and party.

Next, U Mein Sin and party handed over the arms and ammunition to the commander. The commander again presented the arms to U Mein Sin and party to be able to carry out security, tability and regional development tasks. Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein presented gifts to U Mein Sin and U Sai Ta.

Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win presented gifts to column commanders U Sai Yone and U Tun Kyaw.

Commander Brig-Gen Thaung Aye gave presents to U Sai Khe and U Sai Sai of Brigade (758).

Minister Col Thein Nyunt presented two Mazada jeeps and two TE-21 trucks provided by the State to U Mein Sin.

Later, Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Htay Oo presented 20 power tillers provided by the State to U Sai Ta.

After the ceremony, Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein inspected display of arms and ammunition brought by commander of Brigade (758) U Mein Sin and party.

The Secretary-1 and party cordially greeted members of Brigade (758) of Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit) and local national races. Members of national race armed group led by U Mein Sin brought 24 assorted heavy weapons, 834 small arms, 1990 magazines, 157,971 rounds of ammunition, 55 grenades, 63 mines, 15 communication sets and 120 walkie-talkies.


28kpbs	56 kpbs	128 kpbs

New Light of Myanmar, 18th July 2006
http://www.myanmardigest.com/eng_md/July18.html

MRTV3
http://www.mrtv3.net.mm/open2/180706iss.html

New Light of Myanmar, 20th July 2006

Secretary-1 attends destruction of seized narcotic drugs in Laikha
K 28,377.55 million (US $ 46.99 million) worth narcotics destroyed

NAY PYI TAW, 19 July — The fifth ceremony to incinerate narcotic drugs seized in Shan State (South) was held at Myoma Sports Ground in Laikha, Shan State (South), at 11 am on 16 July, attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein.

Also present on the occasion were member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win of the Ministry of Defence, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Thaung Aye, Chairman of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Minister for Home Affairs Maj-Gen Maung Oo, the ministers, the deputy ministers, senior military officers, Secretary of CCDAC the Director-General of Myanmar Police Force, departmental heads, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Philippine Ambassador Madame Phoebe A Gomez and ambassadors of foreign missions, Charges d´Affaires ai and diplomats, resident representatives of UN agencies, the Director (News) of News and Periodicals Enterprise and officials, the President, the Secretary and members of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club, CEC members of Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, chief editors and editorial staff of local journals and magazines, members of Shan State Army (South) (SSA-S) (Ywet Sit Group) led by Brigade-758 commander U Mein Sin who returned to the legal fold, national race peace groups that had returned to the legal fold, members of social organizations, local people and guests. First, CCDAC Secretary MPF Director-General Brig-Gen Khin Yi clarified matters related to the destruction of the seized narcotic drugs.

(The clarification of the MPF Director-General is reported separately.)

Next, the ministers, diplomats and local and foreign journalists inspected the narcotic drugs to be torched.

CCDAC Chairman Minister for Home Affairs Maj-Gen Maung Oo, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Philippine Ambassador Madame Phoebe A Gomez and national race leader U Mein Sin who returned to the legal fold pressed the button to torch the narcotic drugs.

The narcotic drugs incinerated at today´s ceremony were 229.28964 kilos of raw opium, 0.0458 kilo of heroin, 345.398 kilos of morphine powder, 2.02764 kilos of solid opium oil, 1.1712 kilos of inferior opium, 0.18764 kilo of marijuana, 0.007 litre of cough syrup containing opium liquid, 670.45 litres of opium oil, 380 litres of ethyl ether, 232.5 litres of hydrochloric acid, 670.5 litres of ammonium chloride, 200 kilos of sodium carbonate, 758 litres of Lysol liquid, 47,286 stimulant tablets, 28,526.877 kilos of poppy seeds and 992.864 kilos of dry poppy seeds worth K 28,377.55 million and US$ 46.99 million at current price.

After the ceremony, the Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council held the Press Conference 5/2006 at Thiri Hantha Hall in Laikha at 11 am.

Present on the occasion were Chairman of the Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan and members, the ministers, the deputy ministers, senior military officers, the Secretary of CCDAC, the MPF Director-General, departmental heads, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Philippines Ambassador Madame Phoebe A Gomez and ambassadors, Charges d´Affaires, diplomats, resident representatives of UN agencies, the Director (News) of NPE and officials, the president and members of Myanmar Correspondents Club, CEC members of MWJA, local journalists, members of SSA-S (Ywet Sit Group) led by Brigade-758 commander U Mein Sin with the rank of vice chief of staff who returned to the legal fold and guests.

Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan clarified the fifth ceremony of incinerating narcotic drugs seized from Shan State (South) and narcotic drug eradication in Myanmar and invited questions.

Afterwards, the local and foreign journalists asked questions:-

U Sao Kai Hpa: (Mainichi News Agency): I am Sao Kai Hpa, a correspondent of Mainichi News Agency. I would like to ask U Mein Sin a question about the amount of narcotic drugs produced by Ywet Sit´s SSA-S group. And, the MPF Director-General has already made clarification. He said that the opium incinerated were seized from Shan State (South). I had heard opium cases occurred in Shan State (North) in the past. Please explain to me the changing trend of opium from Shan State (North) to Shan State (South).

U Mein Sin: MTA exchanged arms for peace on 27 February 1996. Then, we held a meeting on 28 March 1996. At the meeting, we all decided that narcotic drugs must not be connected with politics. If so death penalty will be given. Observance of discipline must not be infringed due to drugs. If one violates discipline, death penalty will be given. Ywet Sit himself put his signature to all these decisions but he did not honour them.

In July 1996, Ywet Sit himself fetched some rich Chinese and engaged in production of drugs at the foot of the mountain range west of Katphwee Village in Mongkai Township. Again in 1997, with the help of some rich Chinese, he produced drugs in Naungtaw Village. Moreover, Ywet Sit ordered that tax was to be collected on production of drugs in the area under the control of the brigade. As tax, opium had to be sent to him. Not only that, all the opium produced in the area had to be sold to him. As far as I know, from 5,000 to 6,000 viss of opium was collected as tax from Mongkai, Hsamha, Monglan, Mongyun, Kengtawng, Kenglon, Mongnai and Mongpan in 2006. Stimulant tablets and heroin were also sent via Mongshu to the border. As far as I know, U Saw Peta carried 80 rucksacks loaded with stimulant tablets and heroin from Mongshu to the border.

Brig-Gen Khin Yi

I think he asked about the shift in drug trade route from Shan State (North) to Shan State (South). With respect to anti-drug campaign, our nation has adopted the 15-year plan (1999 to 2014). Since then, the government has designated Shan (East), Shan (North) and Shan (South) as the three regions with high risk of drugs.

In the process, Shan State (North) was implementing the drug-elimination drive itself after issuing an announcement that it would be a drug free region by 2003. So, at that time we managed to raid many opium refineries in the region.

Similarly, "Wa" ethnic group declared that it would be a drug-free region by 2005 and carrying out the drug-elimination drive effectively in collaboration with administrative bodies. So, that was a contribution towards our anti-drug campaign.

In addition, armed insurgency was no more there, and so the Tatmadaw and security forces could shoulder defence and security duties anywhere in the region.

So, we could expose the opium refineries. Taking advantage of these two strong points, we constantly carried out opium survey under the Illicit Crop Monitoring Programme in co-operation with the UNODC. Due to these three points, we managed to expose many opium refineries in that region.

As you know, insurgents are active in parts of Shan State (South). So, that threw a roadblock to access to every part of the region. In consequence, we could not expose the opium refineries there in the past.

To make matters worse, the insurgents took complete control over local people by making them to live in fear. And they forced the people not to give information to the Tatmadaw. So, we could not expose the opium refineries in that region. Later especially in late 2004 and in 2005-2006, we managed to expose a number of drug-related cases. Then, 496 drug-related cases could be exposed in Shan State (East). After that, local people came to co-operate with us in the drive.

The case in Wan Yein, for example, was exposed according to the information that the public gave us. The region had been designated as a region of high risk of drugs. With the public information, the number of the drug seizure cases increased in the region. So, it cannot be said that there was a change in the trend of the drug trade.

For long, we have designated the three regions as high risk zones. So, the success in exposing the refineries is largely due to the public information, easy access to any places in the region, and co-operation of local organizations.

I would say, anyhow, we have to continue to pursue our goal with the co-operation of local people and the public until we achieve it in compliance with the guidance of the Head of State that our nation will be a drug free one by 2014.

U Thet Khaing (The Myanmar Times)

The MPF director-general just said that in the seizure that took place in 13 May, who capitalized was the one from a foreign nation. Then, can you tell me from which country he is? And can you tell me that it is an organization or a person? And I would also like to know how you will make further investigation in that case.

Brig-Gen Khin Yi

This is an ongoing case, and it is under investigation. So, I cannot explain that case in detail and I would like you to understand me in this regard. The Drug Related Money Laundering Law has been promulgated. And an organization on investigation in drug-related money has been set up under the MPF. So, the organization is dealing with such cases.

U Aung Thu Myaing (Ji Ji News Agency)

How many townships in Shan State are there that produce poppy? I would like to know the names of these townships and their estimated output of opium. And is there an organization like UNODC, any other big nation? If it is, which country is cooperating with our nation in the drug-elimination campaign? Now, I would like to put a question to U Mein Sin. You have settled down in Shan State (South) for long. May I know if you have any plan to co-operate with the government in the drug-elimination drive in future?

Brig-Gen Khin Yi

Like UNODC, other organizations are co-operating with Myanmar in the anti-drug campaign. For example, CNC (Counter-Narcotic Crimes) in the US. That organization surveys through satellite the poppy fields and poppy cultivation and production in Myanmar. And it yearly states the data and figures of Myanmar in the International Narcotic Control Book.

It is known to the world according to the issues of the organization that the poppy cultivation and production is on the constant decrease in Myanmar. He said Myanmar and anti-narcotic organizations of five neighbouring countries have signed bilateral agreements. Issues on exchange of culprits and narcotic control are being carried out effectively under the bilateral agreement signed by Myanmar and National Narcotic Control Commission of China. Similarly, anti-narcotic measures and exchange of culprits are also undertaken effectively in cooperation with the Office of Narcotic Control Board and Police Narcotic Suppression Bureau of Thailand.

Moreover, he said, Myanmar and the Russian Federation have signed bilateral accord. The government cooperated with anti-drug organizations of South Pacific nations.

Regarding cooperation in anti-narcotic campaign, U Mein Sin said they would participate in the tasks for eradication of narcotic drugs and regional development and warding off destructive elements and danger of external elements under the agreement with the government.

U Ko Ko of Yomiuri Shimbun said destruction of seized narcotic drugs held in Yangon and Laikha showed that Myanmar´s anti-narcotic efforts are successful to some extent. Foreign broadcasting stations and some countries said that some peace groups were involved in drug issues. He asked the position of the government and how the government handled the drug case.

Brig-Gen Khin Yi replied that some countries made false accusations that there was involvement of peace groups in drug case. It is not the involvement of the whole peace group but it is only the involvement of some persons in such cases. In Wan Yein case, fugitive vice-chairman Maung Hla of SSNA breakaway group and others involved in purchase of opium and land lease. There is other persons´ involvement in money, smuggling of precursor chemicals and distribution and sale of drugs in international market. The SSNA breakaway group expelled them from the group as soon as they learnt about it.

He said in September 2005 in Namhsan region a person of an organization was involved in drug case. Later, the organization expelled him from the organization and action was taken against him according to law.

In connection with drug control, the government laid down 15-year project, two strategies and three tactics. Based on these facts, the government is making efforts for eradication of narcotic drugs by 2014. There is no particular law meant for peace groups or other organizations.

----------------------

http://www.myanmardigest.com/eng_md/July20.html

Myanmar to further augment efforts to wipe out menace of drugs in friendly and close cooperation with international organizations, neighbouring countries and with countries within the region

NAY PYI TAW, 19 July — The following is the full text of the clarification on drug eradication endeavours of Myanmar made by Secretary of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Director-General of Myanmar Police Force Brig-Gen Khin Yi at the fifth destruction of narcotic drugs seized in southern Shan State, Laikha, Shan State (South).

We have invited you to attend today´s press conference, held at this particular area where narcotic drugs are being seized, to illustrate the practical achievements of Myanmar´s efforts in eradicating narcotic drugs. It is also to propagate our achievements to the international community at large on Myanmar´s narcotic drugs eradication undertakings through the journalists, heads of diplomatic missions, non-governmental organiza-tions and through representatives of local and international press agencies.

During the previous press conference (4/2006) of the Information Committee of the State Peace and Development Council held on 26 April, 2006 in Kengtung, Eastern Shan State and during the 20th destruction of seized narcotic drugs held in conjunction with the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Yangon on 26 June 2006, we have already elaborated on how narcotic drugs reached Myanmar due to the consequences of imperialist rule. At the same time, we have also highlighted the drug control and law enforcement with major operations launched by successive Myanmar Governments to eliminate narcotic drugs that reached our country and the lives and limbs sacrificed by members of the Tatmadaw in pursuit of this goal.

I will therefore, not reiterate the past events but instead, stress the practical efforts we have exerted to eradicate narcotic drugs which are the legacy of the past in all corners of the country.

The drugs and precursor chemicals we are burning and destroying today are those seized from a clandestine refinery in the area adjacent to where a breakaway group of Shan State National Army (SSNA) is based. For the successful search and raid operation of the clandestine refinery, our anti-narcotic task forces have to collaborate not only with local law enforcement agencies but also with international law enforcement agencies and with neighbouring countries like Thailand and China to enhance exchange of information.

Since early 2006, we received information from our sources that chief of staff Maung Hla, vice-chairman of the breakaway group of Shan State National Army (SSNA) of Wan Yein area in Laikha Township, southern Shan State, had been collecting raw opium from neighbouring villages since the beginning of 2006. We also learnt that a large sum of money was sent from Taunggyi to Wan Yein area to purchase raw opium. Also, necessary precursor chemicals smuggled into the country from abroad for the refinery, had already arrived.

Further information was also received and confirmed that vice-chairman of the break-away group of Shan State National Army (SSNA), Maung Hla had sent for village headmen from 28 villages in Wan Yein area and told them they must collect and deliver 50 to 200 viss (over 300 kg) of opium. He offered 350,000 kyats per viss (1.53 kg) and learnt that a total of 1.600 billion kyats had already been transferred from financial sources for this purpose. This information, after reconfirmation, was relayed to the respective regional authorities for follow-up action.

On 3 May 2006, a task force comprising members of Eastern Command Headquarters, CCDAC, Loilem District Police Force and Taunggyi Anti-Drug Squad raided and searched the horse ranch at Wan Yein owned by Maung Hla. During that search, two subordinates of Maung Hla named Aung Aung (a) Saw Shwe and Shit Shaung (a) Lauk Khan were arrested with the following chemicals:

-ammonium chloride powder 375 kilos

-ammonium chloride crystal 100 kilos

-lysol 60 gallons

-hydrochloric acid 10 gallons

The Squad then searched the house of another suspect named An Pee of Wan Kat village of Wan Yein village-tract and found 3.26 kilos of raw opium. A total of 50 kg of ammonium chloride crystal were seized later on 6 May 2006 form the same house.

The Squad made further searches around Wan Yein village on 5 May 2006 and came across an old refinery near a small pond, 500 yards northeast of the SSNA camp.

Findings there include:

- old barrels;

-old burners and paraphernalia discarded after refining opium;

On 7 May 2006, the Squad combed the area again and finally discovered 343 kgs of No 3 heroin hidden in a ravine about 150 yards northeast of the camp. Subsequently, the following items were also seized.

- raw opium 65.314 kilos

- hydrochloric acid 30.00 litres

- vehicles without licence 18 Nos

- Myanmar currency notes 2.35 million

- GSM mobile phone 1 No

- sawn timber 37.00 tons

- and 9,500 Chinese made magazines.

Simultaneously, Taunggyi Anti-Drug Unit raided Maung Hla´s residence in Taunggyi and the Headquarters of SSNA breakaway group and apprehended the suspects who arranged the transfer of money from Taunggyi to Wan Yein for the purchase of opium in January 2006.

Ah Ti (a) Ah Site (a) Ah Sai and Nan Kham Ein and Kyar Phar (a) Brang Khwan (a) Su Kyan Hwar were arrested.

Also, the chief chemist responsible at the refinery, Lauk Yaw (a) Yaw Kyar Sein and Ah San (a) Hyauk San, his assistant, were arrested.

Upon interro-gation, the offenders revealed the existence of another refinery near Wan Kar village in Panglong Township which was raided on 13 May 2006. The following items were seized at the refinery:

- liquid opium 140 gallons

- hydrochloric acid 40 gallons

- lysol 100 gallons

- cooked opium 1.08 kilos

- Myanmar currency 1.7 million and assorted paraphernalia.

In this operation, a total of 16 persons (13 males and 3 females) were arrested while SSNA breakaway group vicec-chairman Maung Hla and 4 are still on the run.

Investigations revealed that drugs were bound for Australia passing through Cambodia and Thailand. They will be trafficked using jungle tracks from Wan Yein to Panglong, Namhsam and through Tachilek into Thailand. It was also revealed that the financier of the refinery is residing in a foreign country and also organizes the sale of it on the international market. Investigations are still ongoing with cooperation from international law enforcement agencies to apprehend them.

At this juncture, I would also like to stress that only Maung Hla and a few of his men were involved in providing the site and security for the refinery, collecting and purchase of opium but that the entire SSNA breakaway group was not involved whatsoever in the case.

After the search and raid of this clandestine refinery at Wan Yein area, further investigations revealed the existence of another clandestine refinery near Htee Khaung village, Nar Than village tract in Hsihseng Township. On 23 May 2006, the team raided the target area and seized the following items:

- raw opium 97.9 kilos

- liquid opium 45.0 litres

- ammonium chloride 125.0 kilos

- lysol 112.5 litres

- hydrochloric acid 22.5 litres

- Generator 1 No

- motor vehicle jack 4 Nos

- four-wheel drive vehicle 1 No

(without licence)

In another case before this operation, we were able to seize chemicals and para-phernalia during a raid on a clandestine refinery near Pan Aun village in Hsiseng Township on 1 February 2006.

All of these items are included in the destruction today.

The Government of Myanmar fully realizes that enforcement measures alone cannot succeed in eliminating drugs. Those ethnic groups residing in illicit crop cultivated areas are very much dependent on these crops for their livelihood and we have been introducing alternative development programmes together with life skills training to support and enhance their living standards.

We are trying to introduce alternative crops that will generate a regular income in the long term. At the same time we are also coordinating with neighbouring countries to create ready markets for the produce derived from these alternative crops so that they will not be discouraged by difficulties in trying to find markets.

In this regard, in May 2006, CCDAC of Myanmar and NNCC of China have signed agreements to undertake joint surveys on poppy cultivation and to initiate alternative developments programmes in "Wa" and "Kokang" special regions.

In conclusion, we would like to reiterate that Myanmar is trying to eradicate poppy cultivation by the year 2014 and will strive from all sectors to achieve this end. Our emphasis to all our distinguished invited guests and members of the press agencies is that, the menace of narcotic drugs is not the problem of any single country but a crisis that requires a combined efforts of all countries around the world for total eradication.

We will per-sistently strive for total eradication of narcotic drugs as a national cause in conformity with the directives laid down by the State authorities, guided by the strategies and tactics laid down and relying on our own resources. Myanmar in future will further augment efforts to wipe out the menace of drugs in friendly and close cooperation with international organizations, neighbouring countries and with countries within the region and with a pledge to demonstrate Myanmar´s increased achievements to the international community.

230 drug-related cases exposed in June

YANGON, 19 July — Tatmadaw, Myanmar Police Force and the Customs Department exposed 230 drug-related cases in June 2006.

They seized 928.7056 kilos of opium in 38 cases, 25.4361 kilos of heroin in 75 cases, 5.135 kilos of morphine in one case, 1.7355 kilos of opium oil in five cases, 0.7882 kilo of inferior opium in six cases, 6.9023 kilos of marijuana in 17 cases, 997,655 stimulant tablets in 62 cases, 380 kilos of Ephedrine, 21.1276 kilos of stimulant powder, 145.9102 kilos of opium speciosa in 11 cases, 16 kilos of catamine in one case, 545.4 kilos of Caffeine, 1,000 litres of acetic anhydride, 366 litres of chemical liquid, 375 kilos of chemical powder, four cases in failure to register and two other cases.

Action was taken against 369 persons — 304 men and 65 women — in 230 cases in June.

List of drugs to be destroyed

1. Opium 229.28964 kgs

2. Heroin 0.0458 kg

3. Morphine base 345.398 kgs

4. Opium oil (paste) 2.02764 kgs

5. Inferior Opium 1.1712 kgs

6. Marijuana 0.18764 kg

7. Cough syrup with opium 0.007 litre

8. Liquid opium 670.45 litres

9. Ethyl ether 380 litres

10. Hydrochloric acid 232.5 litres

11. Ammonium Chloride 670.5 kgs

12. Sodium Carbonate 200 kgs

13. Lyzol 758 litres

14. Methamphetamine 47,286 tablets

15. Opium seeds 28,526.877 kgs

16. Opium seed (dried) 992.864 kgs

The street value of the drugs burnt today is 28,377.55 million kyats which is approximately equivalent to 46.99 million US$.

http://www.myanmardigest.com/eng_md/July20.html

Members of the Shan State Army (South) brigade who surrendered to the government attend a ceremony in Laihka, about 885km (550 miles) north-east of Yangon July 16, 2006.

Picture taken July 16, 2006. REUTERS/Aung Hla Tun (MYANMAR)

TOP