(VI) RIGHTS OF LIVELIHOOD

6.1. Serve for the Army or Punished

Throughout Burma, Village LORC, (VLORC or Ya Wa Ta) and Township LORC (TLORC, Ma Wa Ta) are SLORC administrative bodies at the village and township level.  The Village LORC chairman, often referred to by villagers as SLORC village head, is normally a villager appointed by SLORC (often against his or her will) to be its liaison officer in the village.  The VLORC chairman and his/her committee are responsible for constant reporting intelligence to the SLORC Army camps, arranging villagers for forced labour, and collecting money demanded by the military.  While doing this, the VLORC chairman is entirely under the orders of the SLORC military, and all money he/she collects is passed on directly to them (though there are some VLORC chairmen who are willingly to co-operate with SLORC and use their power to gain wealth for themselves).  Any time the VLORC chairman fails to send the ordered number of forced labourers or to meet the money demanded, he or she will be arrested and tortured, possibly even executed.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.2. Situation in Chin State

The living condition of the Chins has gone from poor during the pre-independence period to extremely poor under SLORC. The authorities from Burma had built a 15 mile long paved road for the Chins in 47 years.

The Chins have desperately tried to change their way of life. They built roads connecting villages but oil dried out in Burma. They produced silkworms but soon they produced too much and there was no market for it. They produced apples in good quantities but transportation eat up the earning. Orange rot in the fields because there is no buyer. Conservation of fruits was not known in the Chin Hills.

Inflation eats up the value of the Burmese kyat. The hardest hit are public servants whose salary is fixed by SLORC. The monthly salary of government servants are so low that a gazette officers salary just barely to buy rice for him and his wife. A clerk cannot buy rice to feed him and his wife. There is absolutely nothing to do for the people.  Therefore, many people invest all their belongings and money to go out of the country and look for work.

For the last three years the SLORC authorities collected several hundred youngsters by deceiving their poor Christian parents by promising to give higher education to the children. These children were taken to proper Burma where they kept in detention and not allowing the parents, relatives, and friends to see them. These innocent children were forced to convert to Buddhism by making them Buddhist novices without the consent of the parents. SLORC is practising spiritual robbery to the Chin children. On 30 May 1994, the chairman of SLORC in Thlanthlang demanded from the chairmen of village peace associations that youths under the age of 14 years to be sent to Rangoon or Thlantlang for purpose of giving them higher education. Emphasis was made on the non-religious discrimination irrelevance of their religion.

Thus six children from Thlantlang area were sent to the SLORC office at Thlantlang. SLORC sent the six children to Rangoon where they were placed in a monastery and were forced to become Buddhist novices. However, the girls refused their heads to be shaved. When the parents learned the fate of the children, they went to Rangoon to reclaim their children. SLORC refused to return the children. As the parents of three children brought letters of recommendations for the children to be returned to them, they were allowed to see their parents, although they were refused to return home. The other three, whose parents were without the recommendations from SLORC in Thlantlang, were not allowed to see the parents. They were held captive. All the parents pleaded with the SLORC authorities to spend Christmas together with their children. It was in vain. [Source: Vum Son]

6.3. SLORC’s Offer of Brotherhood to the Chin

The SLORC army units in the Chin State roamed the country side. They accused young people in the villages of belonged to anti-government forces such as CNF. They beat up the young people. They went into people's homes and took anything they wanted: rice, beans, clothing, pots and pans. They told the villagers that they are “beggar soldiers” to justify their looting. They shot villagers’ pigs and they caught chicken. They did not pay for anything. If somebody protested, the SLORC soldiers beat up that person. For example: The headman Pu Suan Khan Thang of Haicin village fled to Hiangtui village in Mizoram, India after he was badly beaten by the SLORC soldiers.

The SLORC Army also demanded porters and labourers from the villages. Forced portering and forced labour is the trade mark of SLORC. Their demands become more inhuman as they go farther away from the towns. For example: A SLORC Army unit went to the village of Laungadu in Paletwa district and demanded three girls. When the village headman refused to supply the girls, the headman was executed. The villagers then ran across the border to Bangladesh.  Laungadu village was ethnically mixed between Chin and Arakanese. When the villagers fled to Bangladesh, the Chin village in Bangladesh welcomed the Chin group so they were given land for cultivation. The Arakanese were, however, not allowed to settle among the Chins, so the Arakanese moved to south of Mizoram where they settled for the time being. [Source: Vum Son]

6.4. Life in Sagaing Division

In Kalemyo Town, prices continue to escalate causing hardship: rice is 80 Ks per pyi, pork is 180 Ks per viss, chicken 250 Ks/viss, fish 300 Ks/viss, and sugar 150 Ks/viss [1 viss = 1.6 kg.; 1 pyi is 8 small milk-tins, weighing about 2 kg.].  Most of the people are farmers and average family income is 1,000 Ks per month.  Furthermore, farmers are forced to supply 192 pyi [24 big tins, about 16 kg. each] of paddy per acre to SLORC at only 15 Ks per pyi.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.5. Life in Arakan

The power sector in Rakhine (Arakan) State can hardly meet the demands of its 17 towns, while not one single village is provided with electricity.  Government generators produce about 2% of the actual demand and that is also for a few hours in the evenings, as it was done during the British time.

For the communications sector, the roads of Rakhine have always been poorly built and maintained.  A mere 56 miles of earth road and about an equal distance of rock surfaced roads serve the road communication of the entire northern part of the State.  Dilapidated jitneys and rickety trucks carry passengers on these roads taking a traveller into a journey of time warp.

The waterways offer much of the communications needed for the State.  Yet the fleet of the Government Inland Water Transport Department consist only of nine motor launches, including three twin-deck remodelled versions of the Second World War vessels trudging at 5 knots an hour, and one twin-deck launch with a speed of 7 knots an hour.  Though there is a demand for better and larger vessels, the public sector have not been able to come up with any investments since the absolute control by the military has made it financially unproductive.  Therefore ancient rowing boats are heavily depended upon so that perishables can hardly bring enough money for the farmers and fishermen.  The government vessels ply two days a week on Sittwe-Ann line, once a week on Sittwe-Taungup, three days a week on Sittwe-Buthidaung, and twice a week on Sittwe-Kyauktaw lines.

With military strategy in mind Prome-Taunggup, Minbu-Ann, and Ngathaingchaung-Gwa roads were built previously.  Very poor conditions of these roads and dominance of military control have made these roads not much usable by the public.  [Source:  ABYMU(Arakan)]

The military authorities ordered each household in Kyaukpyu, Rambree and Ann townships to supply them the items mentioned below:

1. Fire wood to bake bricks (700 Ks per one 1 foot width x 2 ft length)-  80 Nos per home

2. Roofing thatch (2 Ks/unit) — 75 Nos per home

3. Timber for supporting home (120 Ks/20-ft in length) — one per home

4. Brick (1200 Ks per trench) — one trench per home

5. Chilli (150 Ks per viss) — One viss per home

6. Bamboo (2 Ks/unit) — 50 Nos per home

7. 5000 Ks per home for Township Law and Order Restoration Council

The price of rice has been skyrocketing and one pyi of rice costs around 50-60 Ks.

Moreover, as SLORC has been building a new naval base near Thit Poak Taung village on Kyaukpyu Island in Arakan State by the help of Chinese experts, more than 300 acre of land from local people were confiscated without any compensation. More than 30 buildings have already been built on the island.  [Source: ABSDF]

6.6. Life in Delta

Each family in 50 villages located nearby Hai Gyi Island has to send 5 viss (about 8 kg) of dried fish or dried prawn or fish paste for the rations of the Navy every month. Most of the villagers there earn their living by fishing.  Some families who earn their living by other means of support have to buy these items at the market and send them to the naval base. The Navy purchases all the fishery products at the rate 30% lower than that of the market price and sells to other individuals.  The products directly bought from the villagers is considered illegal.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.7. Life in Magwe Division

In Seikphyu Township in Magwe Division, there are about 150 village tracts and nearly 300-500 houses in each village.  Most of them earn their living by growing paddy, wool, peas, beans and onions. But majority of them are landless poor farmers and only 5% of local people own 5-10 acres . Local SLORC officials ordered them to sell their farm products on compulsory basis to SLORC’s stores. Whenever the weather brings poor crops, some farmers have to buy the required crops from outside to meet the quota levied by SLORC.

The crops forced to sell                                                             Production   Estimate

For rice      

2 baskets per acre                                                                     30 basket per acre               

(Price rated at 60 Ks per basket)

For cotton    

30 viss/acre                                                                                           200 viss per acre               

(10 Ks per viss at the fixed price while it is 50 Ks per viss at the market)

For bean       

1.5 viss per acre                                                                                    12 viss per acre

[Source:  ABSDF]

6.8. Situation in Mong Hsu Gem Land

Mong Hsu is a Township in Shan State where precious stones such as rubies and emeralds are found. All the armed ethnic groups in Shan State which reached cease-fire agreements with SLORC are allowed to dig those precious stones there. But block 5 and 6 which have produced good quality of stones are under the control of  SLORC and IBs 43, 49, 65 and 66 and LIBs 11, 221, 225 and 227 were deployed for the security of the area.

Heads of the Mines (1994)

Block    Name                                 Organisation            Advance money to SLORC

——     ——                                  ——————         ———————————

  1/b    Daw Mya Nyunt                         individual                                        700,000 Ks

  2/b    U Ba Shwe                                “                                                 1,400,000 Ks

  3/b    U Kyi                                         “                                                 1,200,000 Ks

  4/b    Daw Kyar Fu                             “                                                 4,200,000 Ks

  5/b    Law Sit Han                   Kokang                                                 20,600,000 Ks

  6/b   Yan Moe Lyan                Shan special region 1.    20,800,000 Ks

  7/b   Sa Khon Taintyein           Kachin special region 1.   5,000,000 Ks

  8/b   Yan Moe An                   Shan region 1.                           10,800,000 Ks

  9/b      .........                                       individual                                   10,000,000 Ks

10/b    E Bay                                         “                                                 2,000,000 Ks

11/b    Sai Lin                                        Shan region 4.                             4,000,000 Ks

[Source:  ABSDF]

6.9. Student Sports Festival in Loikaw

Since the first week of September 1995, the students from High Schools and Middle Schools in Loikaw were selected for the opening and closing ceremonies of the Sixth Student Sports Festival, scheduled to be held from 5 to 15 December 1995.  All the classes were closed to rehearse selected male students as standard bearer and female students as dancers and Miss Beauty.  Those students who were absent for the rehearsals were not allowed to sit the examination and their parents were also taken actions by the authorities. The students were also forced to wear designated uniforms for the festivals so that their parents had to buy them with their own expenses.  Five battalions were deployed to take care of security for the festival.

Local SLORC officials forced to get a donation of  200 Ks from each middle-school-level student, 500 Ks from each high-school-student and 200 Ks from every common people to cover the expenses of the construction.  Some families had to pay even more amount than the fixed ones. The local officials also introduced forced collection of funds from the owners of motorbikes, trucks and bicycles. Owners of sawmills were also forced to cut the necessary timber for the constructions.  As the roads in Loikaw were widened up to 25 feet, some monasteries and houses were destroyed for that purpose.

Moreover, civil servants, students and their parents were also forced to donate money or basic foodstuff for the festival.  Furthermore, local people were forced to contribute labour in white-washing  — cleaning, painting , building fences and extending roads — the town everyday.

Aiming to smooth the transportation in the name of self-help programme, SLORC forced the public to donate money ranging 250 to 350 Ks per household, without spending any government budget for the cost of repair and beautification of the city.  Opening sessions of self-help road construction programmes by forced contribution of money and labour from the local people in Min Su, Shan Su, Daw Noe Koo, Daw Tama and Damayone quarters were held on 3 November 1995.  [Source:  ABSDF/Khun Marco Ban]

6.10. Life in Eastern Pegu Division and Karen State

The SLORC troops were more active in Shwegyin, Kyaukkyi and Mone townships in Pegu Division in 1995, compared to the previous years. Wherever they went, they did not carry rice or rations with them. They took rice or whatever food they could get from any village they came across and destroyed all the rest of food by burning down or scattering them on the ground, leaving nothing for the villagers. They also eat all domestic animals, including pigs, chickens and ducks. Many villages were totally destroyed. In Shwegyin Township, the hardest hit areas or villages were Htee Klay, Htee Blah, Maw Kee, Meh Yeh Kee, Reh Thaw Kee, Ler Way, Sa Mu Tar and Ko Pet.

In Kyaukkyi Township, the SLORC troops forcibly relocated many villages and most of the rural villages were destroyed. The rest of the villagers fled to the forest where they must play hide-and-seek with SLORC. They were facing a severe shortage of food.

In other townships, the SLORC troops launched a major offensive the whole summer. Most of the villages in the hilly regions were all destroyed or abandoned. Only a few villages in the plain remained un-destroyed. The villagers that fell under SLORC control have to provide porters. Each village-tract had to provide 150-200 porters, every week, regardless of gender basis. The SLORC sometimes conscripted porters. If they didn’t get the men, they took the women and forced them into portering. If they didn’t want to go, they had to pay 3,000 Ks as a ransom. Many of the villagers who fled from SLORC had no more pots or utensils at all. They didn’t want to leave their homeland. If they left, SLORC would bring in Burman people to the Karens’ land and take as their own. These villagers tried to buy rice from nearby villages at 500 Ks per kerosene tin. They had to sell whatever they had to be able to buy rice. Many of the villagers took refuge with their relatives in other villages.

Those villagers in Papun, Nyaunglebin, Thaton and Taungoo districts who fled from the SLORC troops had no adequate shelter or food. They were suffering from all kinds of diseases. One peculiar happening was that the villagers in all the villages that the SLORC troops passed through were suffering from a certain kind of disease, which was similar to dysentery.  Many villagers died of this. Between March and mid-July 1995, more than 100 lives were lost in Meh Way village-tract in Papun District alone.

Most of the people in these districts earn their living by slash and burn farming.  In 1994, as the rain came very early, those farmers did not have a chance to burn their plots, causing them having no usable land to cultivate. At the end of 1994, they had nothing to harvest or store.  In Thaton Township, most people earn their living by cultivating paddy. As the rain came early and it was so heavy, all their fields were flooded for too long, destroying all their paddy plantation. They too ended up with very little to harvest.

Due to shortage of food and the activities of SLORC troops in the area, many schools were closed down in the 1995-1996 school year. In Papun Township, all the schools were closed. In Papun District, as many as 50% were shut down, and in other townships lesser numbers were closed.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.  Life along the Coast

6.11.1. Paddy Buying Centre

Local farmers in Burma have had to sell the paddy with low prices since the reign of BSPP (Burma Socialist Programme Party). Since December 1994, SLORC has opened “Paddy Buying Centres” at several places in Mon State and Tenasserim Division and forcibly bought paddy from farmers to meet fixed amount of the products. During the 1994 rainy season, as various crops were destroyed by the floods, the production of paddy reduced and many farmers could not supply their quota. Majority of the peasants there were not able to cultivate again because the rainy season was longer in 1994 than the previous years.

When the farmers from Klortsot, Htonemine, Kwankhabawe and Yaungdawn villages in southern Mudon Township, Mon State, failed to sell them as of February 1995, SLORC alleged these farmers of being encouraged not to sell the rice by Mon troops. As a consequence, in the second week of February, SLORC troops from LIB 209 and local authorities confiscated many baskets of paddy from those farmlands. [Source: HURFOM]

Each farmer in 4 Townships — Thayetchaung, Launglon, Tavoy, and Yebyu — of Tavoy District, Tenasserim Division, has to sell the paddy to SLORC at the price of 50 Ks per basket while its market price is 250-300 Ks.  If a farmer fails to sell his quota, SLORC and Village LORC officials come to his/her house and force him/her to surrender the quota.  If he/she still does not provide the required amount, they arrest him/her and stop him/her from working on his/her farm. As a result, many farmers were arrested and massive farms were confiscated by SLORC and Village LORC officials, forcing many farmers to become landless and jobless.  [Source:  KHRG]

In Kyun Su Township, Tenasserim Division, SLORC issued orders and forced the peasants to sell six baskets of paddy per acre at the price of 70 Ks. Those whose farmland were destroyed were not exempted from those orders. They were forced to buy hill-side-cultivated paddy and sell three baskets per acre to SLORC.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.2. Forced Cultivation

In June 1995, Comdr Capt Thein Myint from Coy 3 of SLORC IB 97, stationed at Ku Dune Camp in Kawkareik District, Karen State, forced villagers from five villages — Hsan Pa Lan, Mi Pa Nya, Kauk Hsin Gone, Thein Pa Laing, Mi Pa Laing — to till three acres of land. The seeds had to be provided by those villagers themselves. On 11 July 1995, Capt Thein Myint was replaced by Capt Kyi Toe, Coy 3 Comdr of LIB 310. Before he went away, Capt Thein Myint ordered those villagers to pay him 10,000 Ks in advance for the rice to be reaped in the field and to distribute the crops among themselves. Therefore, the villagers had to collect 2,000 Ks from each village to meet the demand.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.3. Illegal Rice Mills

Every private rice mill owner who has a registration receipt from Mergui Agricultural Inspection Authorities has regularly to pay 1,600 kg of unmilled rice as a tax to Tenasserim Agricultural Authorities for every year. The owners of rice mill who don’t have the receipts from agricultural authorities are not allowed to operate their rice mills.  Some owners of rice mills who do not register at Mergui Agricultural Inspection Authorities were arrested. Moreover, the owners of rice mills have to buy unmilled rice in the market and pay the authorities as the tax according to the fixed price.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.4. Sell More Crops to the State

SLORC has also increased paddy quotas to be bought from farmers in 1996 up to 500%, from two tins per acre to ten tins per acre.  SLORC only pays 70 Ks per tin while the market price at the moment is 410 Ks.  This is partly to feed the expanding army, and partly to support SLORC for 500% increase in rice exports in 1996, from 265,000 in 1995 to 1.2 million tonnes in 1996.  This increase in export intended for SLORC's profit and one of its international public relations move caused an extremely serious shortage of rice throughout Burma. Prices of rice have doubled in many areas and people are subsisting on rice-soup or starving.  Traders from coastal towns in Burma are even coming to hard-pressed ethnic-controlled areas to see if they have any rice to sell.

Although SLORC is supposed to cease all kinds of forced portering and porter fees from the villages under the terms of the cease-fire deal between SLORC and NMSP, villagers confirm that all these things continue at least as much as before.  SLORC has responded the NMSP’s complaints about this by stating that porters are being taken by the Township LORCs, not by the army, and that this is acceptable because only the army is covered by the cease-fire terms.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.11.5. Army Farm

All villages in four townships of Tavoy District — Thayetchaung, Longlon, Tavoy and Yebyu — have been ordered to supply various domestic animals to the SLORC battalions for their animal husbandry projects. Each village was order to give 200 ducks, 200 chickens, three pigs and one buffalo or one cow without fail to the IBs 25 and 104 and LIBs 267, 268, 269, 273, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407, 408, 409 and 410.

Some local cattle traders were accused of smuggling cattle to Thailand and arrested and fined by the SLORC troops. Their own cattle were also seized and taken as ration for the battalions.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.6. Compensation

The area along the railroad in Hnain Htway village in Yebyu Township, Tenasserim Division, was declared by SLORC LIB 407 that cattle found on the embankment of the railway line would be shot and the owners of cattle would also be fined. Moreover, it said that if the owner wanted his/her dead cattle back, he/she must pay the current price of that cattle to the SLORC battalion.  Everyday the soldiers from LIB 407 shot the cattle on the embankment of the railway line and the owners had to pay them 500 Ks for ammunition which those soldiers used for the cattle.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.7. Exploitation

Since the construction for proposed gas pipeline has been re-started, persons very close to the SLORC officers are granted the contracts. Although TOTAL company pay the salaries to local workers in dollar, SLORC officers exchanged them into Burmese currency before given to the workers. Official exchange rate for US$ 1 is 6 Ks while it is as high as 120 Ks in the black market.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.8. Check-point Fee

Each person who wanted to enter Thailand had to pay 300 baht to the SLORC army officers at Nat Ei-Taung outpost on the Burmese side of the border in Tenasserim Division. Sometimes those who wanted to enter Thailand were conscripted and forced into portering.  [Source:  KNU]

6.11.9. Collect More

There was a conflict between an officer and other ranks within the SLORC troops which were deployed from the mining area to Thein Daw village in Tenasserim Township. The troops were ordered to levy tax on the boats travelling along the Tenasserim River. In October 1995, there was a problem between the soldiers and their captain. The captain owed all the collected money and ordered the soldiers to levy tax again with the reason that the amount did not meet the demand.  The soldiers returned their guns and refused to take further orders. [Source:  KNU]

6.11.10. Life of Fishermen

Since SLORC has begun to sell the fishing licenses to the Thai companies to fish in the Burmese water, the life of traditional Burmese fishermen in Tenasserim Coast is deteriorating. Many Thai fishing vessels fish in shallow waters close to the coast and exploit the areas traditionally fished by the local people. The Burmese fishermen there who have relied on local fishing resources for generations are now exactly facing starvation. Many of these villagers, displaced by the activities of Thai fishing boats, have been forced to move inland to seek a new livelihood. Many fishermen could not meet their daily need so they moved to other places working all kinds of odd jobs.  The introduction of modern sonar, radar and electronic devices by the Thai vessels completely change the nature of fishing and cause the local fishermen who used small vessels and locally produced fishing gear unable to compete. Heavy mining in the seas has been reported killing all species in the areas and destroying the ecosystem for years to come.

After the brutal murder of Burmese fishermen by their Thai counterparts on a vessel, Burmese authorities has stopped renewing contracts or extension of licences to the Thai fishing companies. But the  fishing licenses were re-granted in the beginning of November 1995 with some restrictions. Previously Thai fishing vessels could fish and sell without any restriction after they pay tax to the Burmese fishing authority. According to the new regulation, all the foreign fishing vessels operating in the Burmese waters have to be scrutinised one by one and have to sell the fishes to the Burmese Fish Buying Centres designated by the authorities, and any vessel found off-limits would be shot.

In reality, none of these regulations are adhered to. Hundreds of Thai fishing vessels are using one official license and duplicate to other vessels numbering from six to ten with the same name and size. Many are operating illegally in the Burmese waters and sometimes reach as far as Mon State. They sell very small amount of fishes to the Burmese authorities as mentioned in the regulation while large amounts are smuggled out by the Thai illegal vessels and sold in Ranong in Thailand.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.11.11. Tax for Upgrading Tavoy College

Since it came to power, SLORC has been attempting to build new colleges in order to disperse the students who have been the sparks of popular uprisings in Burma's history.  Some two-academic-year colleges have been upgraded into four-academic-year universities in every State and Division in Burma. It seems SLORC has been promoting the education sector and all the regions are in the process of development in the country. However, one of the main reason is to undermine the student movement and make the students scatter all over the country. The bottom line is to handle anticipated student-led movement easily in case of occurrence. Tavoy College was opened in 1977 and giving two-academic-year courses. SLORC has been upgrading Tavoy College into a four-academic-year degree college. Unsurprisingly, local people in Tenasserim Division have been ordered to contribute for the upgrading costs.  All townships in Tenasserim Division are obligatory to donate 15,000,000 Ks.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.11.12. Taxation for “Student Sports Festival 1996”

“Student Sports Festival 1996”, a yearly festival since SLORC took over power in 1988 is scheduled to be held in Tavoy, capital of Tenasserim Division. As a preparation for the "success" of  the festival, SLORC ordered each township in Tenasserim Division to contribute 5,000,000 Ks. A special fund collecting and receiving committee led by U Htay Aung (Secretary of Township LORC) in Palaw Township was formed. According to Order No 2/95 dated 22 December 1995, the committee would levy taxation on all businessmen and people in accordance with the fixed rate until the end of October 1996. Small business like tailoring, beauty saloon, hair-dressing, book rental shop, betel-nut shop have been ordered to pay 5-10 Ks daily while restaurants, grocery and stores are required to pay 20-30 Ks daily. All government corporations and departments are also ordered to levy the fixed rate such as 150 Ks for one trip of passenger car in the township, 500 Ks for one trip by boat to Rangoon, 50 Ks for one acre of rubber plantation per day. The rate depends on the size of business. Even the animal are not spared form taxation. Each pig or cattle that passes through the township is levied at 15 Ks. Anyone who need to get a recommendation letter from the Township LORC is forced to pay 500 Ks for the “Student Sports Festival”.  [Source:  ABSDF]

[See also under “Personal Accounts”, interview 3, 22-36,43-44, 47-84, 86-109, 111-131, 133-155, 157-159, 178-188, 191-196, 199-201, 205-224, 227-228, 231-242, 251, 255-263, 265-297, 299-305, 307-309]

6.12. List of Incidents

6.12.1. On 15 December 1993, SLORC troops led by Capt Tin Zaw Hla of Mareit-wa military outpost under the command of LIB 374 burnt down Khone village of Khami ethnic minority after accusing the villagers of having contact with the insurgents. The village was located inside Burma, 15 km south of the tri-junction of Indo-Burmese-Bangladeshi border. The whole village — a total of thirty seven households — was burnt down. The villagers, including women and children, were beaten and expelled into the triangle area. Two thousand and seven hundred baskets of paddy, 250 baskets of sesame, 50 baskets of rice, 64 cattle, 40 pigs, 300 chicken and all the furniture were plundered and brought to the Trawn-ai military outpost by the SLORC soldiers. The villagers were threatened that they would be shot dead if they were found in that area again. Thus the whole village with a population of 317 moved to India.  The new site of Khone village is situated on the Indian side of the Triangle area.

Local people from five Arakanese villages — Khone village, Pagawa, Foaylawa, Kaki (upper) and Kaki (lower) — have recently sheltered in Mizoram State of India to escape from the harassment of SLORC troops. [Source:  ASC]

6.12.2. On 28 October 1994, as SLORC troops from IBs 31 and 62 led by Deputy Comdr Lt-Col Than Win, Capt Aung Lwin and Capt Aye Min fired some artillery shells into Kyaukapin, Kawgo, Palaingkamort and Line villages in Kyaikmaraw Township, Mon State, Nai Nyein, Mehm Hla Tin, Mehm Kon Htaw and Mi Aye Kyi were hit and wounded.  [Source:  HURFOM]

6.12.3. Since December 1994, local SLORC authorities in Victoria Point (Kawthaung Township) in Tenasserim Division issued an order for the people living in Myo Pat Street to use zinc plate for roofing.  In Mergui Township, such order was announced through loud speakers that those who failed to comply with the order would be fined raging 3,-6,000 Ks. [Source: ABSL]

6.12.4. On 3 December 1994, 80 troops led by Capt Maung Ngue from LIB 518 from Langhko arrived at Nong Oi village, Mong Nai Township, southern Shan State.  They ordered all the villagers to gather in one place and looted the village; taking away over 3,000 Ks worth of rice, groundnut and two chickens from Pa Lake; one pig worth 2,000 Ks from Lung Ti; 2,000 Ks worth of two baskets of peanut and two tins of cooking oil from Lung Nya and Pa Ki; cane sugar, palm sugar, paddy and 4,000 Ks worth of household utensils from Lung Pan Aung and Pa Mart; a young cow worth of 1,000 Ks from Lung Tun and Pa Phit; and pots, pans, knives and 1,000 Ks worth of other household utensils from Lung Khan Ti and Pa Lake. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.5. On 6 December 1994, while 80 troops from led by Capt Maung Ngue from LIB 518 were heading for Non Tong Lor village, Langhko Township, southern Shan State, they met Lung Kyang Lee (80) on the way and without any provocation, they took away his betel pot, plastic sheet, knife and 400 Ks in cash. They then beat him with a stick before releasing him.  [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.6. At 8.30 a.m. on 9 December 1994, while an MTA unit was patrolling the area of Mongnim and Mongkut, Mong Hsat Township, eastern Shan State, they came across a SLORC soldier named Pvt Ye Lin Tet (Serial No. 906402; Kun Dy village, Dedaye Township, Irrawaddy Division) from IB 527.  The soldier, who was seriously ill, had been abandoned by his fellow troops on 7 December after they had taken away his gun.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.7. In Mong Pan, at one night in January 1995, some SLORC soldiers and their pocket-militias came into Sai Po Yin and Nang On’s Cafe and created a disturbance by banging tables, smashing tea-cups and other things into pieces, and then kicking all the young men who were about to drink coffee there at the time. At dawn, they came back and broke all the rest of the utensils, cursing and pointing guns at the owners. From that time onwards, the shopkeepers dared  not open their shop during night time.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.8. From the beginning of 1995, SLORC ordered the farmers from every village-tract in Namsang Township, southern Shan State, to come and sell their crops at the rate of 3.5 tins per acre at 70 Ks per tin while the outside rate was 150 Ks per tin. [Source: SHRF]

6.12.9. Since 7 January 1995, SLORC troops at Mong Nai have been forcing vehicles, including bullock carts, to convey stones to the site of Namsang-Mong Nai railway construction every day.  [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.10. On 17 January 1995, SLORC troops from Coy 4 of  Laihka-based IB 64 led by Capt Aung Myo came to know that five owners — Long Yawt Sorn, Tsai Lurn Kham Poi, Kham Tsing Ngo, Tsai Yee and Long Khin — of rice mills in Laihka had closed down their mills. The captain then fined them 500 Ks each, and ordered each mill after the harvest to grind (15) tins of their own grain for the Burma army without charges.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.11. In February 1995, local people in Mergui District were forced to contribute labour by LIB 358 for the construction of a road that links The Phyu and Moetaung. A villager, age 35, from Kyauk Gone village, stepped on a land-mine on 12 February 1995 and one of his legs was hit. He was left for 2 nights at Nyaung Pin Kwin village where the villagers there were forced to pay an expense of 2000 Ks for treatment. Then the victim was transferred to Tenasserim Township Hospital. Although it passed 2 weeks, the victim was left as it was with the reason that SLORC has no money for the treatment.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.12. In Kalay Town, Sagaing Division, all the bicycle owners need to get licences from SLORC authorities. The authorities levy tax on each bicycle at the rate of 20 Ks. [Source:  Inside Source]

6.12.13. In February 1995, the SLORC troops entered Lay Po Kaw Hteet, Keh Pay and Per Kee Der village tracts in Papun District and burned 545 baskets of rice (1 basket = 2 kerosene tins).  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.14. On 1 February 1995, 2 military columns from SLORC LIB 261 committed a robbery at Bel Si village and took away household utensils, livestock and 28,400 Ks in cash including other valuable items.  [Source:  KNPP]

6.12.15. On 4 February 1995, 2 military columns from SLORC LIB 261 [see 11.14. above] ransacked Dae Wah Htar village and took away household utensils and animals.  On the same day, the same troops rounded up Hel Si village and looted three and a half tickle of gold, one gold chain, 40 silver coins, 13,000 Ks in cash, 2,000 Bt in cash, household utensils and livestock.  [Source: KNPP]

6.12.16. On 11 February 1995, about 50 SLORC troops from LIB 525 entered Warn Tsa Larng village, Warn Hart village-tract of Langhko Township, southern Shan State, and shot two pigs belonging to Nang Kham (30) for their rations.  When the owner tried to ask for compensation, the soldiers threatened to fine her. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.17. On 13 February 1995, 50 troops led by Capt Khin Kyaw Thu from Coy 2 of SLORC LIB 525 raided Warn Parng Kho Yop village, Mong Nang village-tract, Laihka Township, ransacked Tsai Ne Win’s house and took away clothes, livestock and 1,200 Ks in cash. [Source: S.H.A.N]

6.12.18. On 18 February 1995, six-hour-long-fighting broke out between SLORC IB 32 led by Maj Min Aung and a military column from 16th Bn of KNLA at Shwe Toe village, Kyar Inn Seik Gyi Township, Karen State. After SLORC troops being suffered 20 men wounded, IBs 31 and 62 were sent as reinforcements. Because of the fighting, local people at Shwe Toe village left their belongings and ran for their lives.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.19. On 20 February 1995, a joint military column of IBs 31 and 62 razed Nyaung Gone village to the ground without any reason. That village was two hour’s walk from Shwe Toe village. Seventeen houses and more than 2000 baskets of paddy were burned down and 20 families became homeless. Moreover, SLORC troops robbed valuable things from the monastery in the village. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.20. On 21 February 1995, about 150 troops from SLORC IB 68 arrived at Worn Na-kor village, Mong Tom village-tract, Tanyan Township, northern Shan State and demanded beef from the villagers. When the villagers delayed to give it to them, the troops seized two bulls worth 15,000 Ks each, and slaughtered. These bulls belonged to Parn Sarn Vi and Long Laii Tsarm.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.21. On 22 February 1995, about 50 SLORC troops from LIB 525 entered Warn Tsa Larng village, Warn Hart village-tract of Langhko Township, southern Shan State, again.  They cut down all the 90 banana plants belonging to Loong Nu (55). The soldiers told the owner of the garden to collect all the bunches of bananas for them, and warned the victim not to steal any ripe ones.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.22. On 23 February 1995, SLORC troops from Lashio-based IB 68 raided villagers of Koon Morng village, Murng Tom village-tract, Tanyan Township, northern Shan State.  The villagers ran away and hid themselves in the nearby fields.  Unfortunately, one of the villagers named Nang Tsum, aged 20, was caught by the soldiers who later robbed a necklace (one bath weight) worth of 60,000 Ks and a ruby ring (1/2 bath weight) worth of 30,000 Ks that she had hidden in her hut. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.23. On 25 February 1995, DKBA troops took away 10 baskets of rice from Mae Paw Hta village in Pa-an Township, Karen State.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.24. Ma Khine Soe, a girl, from Ye Nan Dane village of Kyaukpyu Township went psychosis after a soldier from IB 34 In March 1995 opened fire close to her ear without any reason. [Source:  ABSDF]

6.12.25. In March 1995, Lt Aung Naing and Maj Thein Zan from SLORC IB 96 came up to K’Tee Bu village in Thaton Township, Mon State, and ordered the parents or relatives of Karen soldiers in the village and all the nearby villages to give them 500 Ks per person.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.26. SLORC troops guarding prisoners working on the road between Mong Ping and Kengtung, eastern  Shan State, since late March 1995 have been robbing the prisoners’ belongings donated by sympathetic passers-by.  Passengers passing along the motorway in trucks have moved in pity by the sight of the emaciated prisoners and given them food, cheroots and pocket money. However, as soon as the trucks pass, the SLORC soldiers force the prisoners to hand over all the donated items. [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.27. On 1 March 1995, approximately fifty soldiers from SLORC LIB 525 raided Warn Na Kong village in Warn Hart village-tract, Langhko Township, southern Shan State, and looted rice and livestock from Sarng Loo, Nang Tsor Mung and Loong Oo. [Source:  S.H.A.N] 

6.12.28. At night on 2 March 1995, a group of armed men from DKBA entered Maw Lu Khaw Refugee Camp, located near Mae Tha Wah village, Tha Song Yang District of Tak Province, Thailand. Then they took away five cassette recorder, one video recorder, one camera,  20000 Ks in cash and clothing.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.29. On 4 March 1995, 117 SLORC troops from Langhko-based LIB 299 with 17 porters and 7 mules led by Maj Myo Myint arrived at Worn Tsieng Kham village, Loi La village-tract, Namsang Township, southern Shan State, and accused a couple named Sai Wunna and Nang Sar of running a rice mill belonged to MTA. Their rice mill was confiscated without compensation and all the grains in barn were thrown into Nam Teing River. [Source: SHRF]

6.12.30. At 10:00 p.m. on 4 March 1995, SLORC Maj Tin Aung accompanied by 2nd Lt Aung Than Htway, Sgt Mya Sein and Sgt Soe Zaw Oo, robbed Sai Pang, who recently moved from Won Pui to Pok Goong Hor Ner, Ke-hsi Mansam Township.  The victim lost valuable items worth about 150,000 Ks. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.31. On 4 March 1995, while a man named Sai Pang was attending a meeting at Mongtuan, Tanyan Township in northern Shan State, some soldiers came to his house and robbed his possession at the presence of his wife, Nang La Yin, and an elderly woman.  When Sai Pang arrived back from the meeting, SLORC summoned him and tried to take action against him. But as he was innocent, SLORC could not charge him. SLORC then forced Sai Pang to take responsibility for building a local school. SLORC had been allocated 600,000 Ks for this purpose, but of this amount Maj Tin Aung had already taken a personal share of 400,000 Ks. Therefore, Sai Pang had to try and manage the building with a budget of 200,000 Ks. As a consequence, Sai Pang became so fed up that he decided to enter the monkhood. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.32. On 5 March 1995, SLORC put up an announcement on a signboard in Nga Man Chaung village, Kyun Su Township, Mergui District, saying that each family in the village would have to give 3,600 Ks for “development”.  The first instalment 2,000 Ks was to be paid to the Village LORC chairman.  It said anyone who failed to comply with the order would severely be punished.  Since SLORC has planned to build a motorway in Kyun Su Township, the Township LORC officials have been collecting money from all the villagers to cover the expenses.  As the villagers are poor and cannot afford to pay this money, they have to live in a state of fear because SLORC officers in the area never hesitate to punish anybody who fails to comply with their orders.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.33. On 5 March 1995, SLORC troops from Coy 4 of Laihka-based IB 64 led by Capt Aung Myo forced farmers from the following villages to come and sell their grains at the rate of 70 Ks per tin while the actual rate was 325 Ks per tin.

1. Warn Parng                                      120 tins

2. Norng Ya Sai                                                128

3. Norng Kar                                            8

4. Warn Mau                                          12

5. Nam Main                                             8

6. Norng Woe                                           8

7. Koong Tsam Kar                                   8

8. Mok Tsarm                                           8

9. Warm Heng                                         24

                                                               324

[Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.34. On 19 March 1995, 80 SLORC troops from LIB 525 and IB 71 from Kengtung entered Wan Khai village, Kengtong village-tract, Mong Nai Township and destroyed a rice mill belonged to Loong War Ling (40). After that, they poured petrol on the rice and paddy in the mill and set it afire. Moreover, they also stole two pigs.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.35. On 20 March 1995, SLORC troops from Laihka-based IB 64 raided Warn Parng village, Warn Hen village-tract in Laihka Township, and took away livestock belonged to Nang Yoong, Loong Kham Hurng, Loong Zawana, Poo Loi Tsurn, Khing Oong, Pantamoo, Loong Dima, Loong Dima (short) and Loong Dima (headman).  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.36. On 26 March 1995, a land-mine exploded on the road that links Nyaung Pin Kwin and Moe Taung in Tenasserim Township. That place was about four miles from Tha Baw Leik village.  Eight SLORC soldiers from LIB 358 who were responsible for the security of the road died while nine others were wounded.  On 27 March 1995, that column reduced the houses in Tha Baw Leik village to ashes and took away valuable things. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.37. On 29 March 1995, camp commander of Palaw Gone army camp demanded 1,200 bamboo posts and 100 wooden posts from Zarde Win village, Papaw Township. [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.38. Since April 1995, each family living in any village close to motorway in Thaton Township has been forced to pay one pyi [about 1.5 kg.] of rice and 1/4 kilo of chillies every month.  After collecting, they give them to the DKBA soldiers.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.39. On 3 April 1995, SLORC troops from Coy 4 of LIB 424 captured 20 cattle belonged to the traders in Ho-pong, southern Shan State, at Fang Porn, east of Loi Sao. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.40. On 6 April 1995, each household in every village-tract in Tachilek Township, eastern Shan State, was ordered to come out with 300 packets of candy and garlands in order to greet the SLORC soldiers from IB 331 which had an engagement with MTA at Khon Hsar and Ping Kor villages, 7-8 miles west of Tachilek. Anyone who failed to comply with the order had to pay a fine of 300 bahts. [Source: S.H.A.N]

6.12.41. On 11 April 1995, Thaw Mena, a soldier from DKBA, ordered the villagers to go and take two big buffaloes from Noh Aw Lah village in Pa-an Township, Karen State.  On the same day, another DKBA soldier, Saw Tha Gwih, forcibly took about 20,000 Ks from Maung Kyi Win of Moulmein and Maung Soe Soe of Du Yin Seit.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.42. On 12 April 1995, a column from SLORC IB 103 demanded 1,000 Ks from Zarde Win village in Palaw Township so that the soldiers could enjoy themselves during water festival [April 12-15].  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.43. On 13 April 1995, SLORC troops from Coy 4 of LIB 424 captured another 34 cattle belonged to the traders in the Parng Orn area, Hsi-hseng Township, southern Shan State.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.44. On 16 April 1995, Thaw Mena of DKBA ordered his men to go and take four oxen from Noh Aw Lah village, two oxen from Bo Kyo village and another two oxen from Ga Maw Ko village, in Pa-an Township. [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.45. On 20 April 1995, camp commander at Palaw Gone army camp demanded 1,000 Ks from Zarde Win village, Palaw Township, for cement to be used in reconstruction of the army camp.  On 2 June 1995, he further demanded 1,500 Ks from the same village for timber to repair the camp.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.46. On 21 April 1995, Thlamphei, as a village in Thlantlang District was burned down by the SLORC Army, the villagers not only became homeless but also their valuables were stolen by the perpetrators.  Every Christian Mission throughout Chinland had to support  them with essential commodities, money and food.  It was estimated that the villagers lost at least  500,000 Ks in that incident. [Source:  Independent Chin Report]

6.12.47. Throughout May 1995, SLORC troops moved around and committed looting, eating or destroying the rice, livestock and other belongings of villagers in the villages including Nya Pi Hta, Meh Way Kee, Naw Po Kee, Ku Ree Hta, Lay Klay Day, Ma Nyu Hta and Kler Ber Ko in Papun District.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.48. On 1 May 1995, Coy 1 from Mong Pan-based SLORC LIB 520 took away rice, whiskey and livestock from Long Per Ta (51) of Mai Poke village, Tongkwai Wolai village-tract, Mong Pan Township. [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.49. On 9 May 1995, Coy 1 from Mong Pan-based SLORC LIB 520 took away livestock from Loong Kang (49) of Mai Poke village, Tongkwai Wolai village-tract, Mong Pan Township. [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.50. On 9 May 1995, SLORC troops stationed near Tee Nya Baw and Ma Ee Sah villages in Thaton Township demanded one cow and other livestock. The villagers had to fulfil the demand and then pay money to the owners.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.51. On 9 May 1995, a column from SLORC IB 103 arrived at Kyauk Leik village, Palaw Township, Tenasserim Division, and demanded 500 bamboo posts to fence their camp at Pa Lan Gone village.  The column also forced local people in the area to fence the camp. [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.52. On 15 May 1995, Saw Tha Gwih from DKBA ordered the Mon traders in sampans to pay him 28,000 Ks at Kyaun Sein village in Pa-an Township, where there is a trading stop along the river.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.53. On 16 May 1995, Coy 1 from Mong Pan-based SLORC LIB 520  took away livestock from Pi Su Na (43) of Mai Poke village, Tongkwai Wolai village-tract, Mong Pan Township. [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.54. On 16 May 1995, Coy 1 from Mong Pan-based SLORC LIB 520  took away a herd of cattle worth 7,000 Ks from Kaw Saing Ta (47) of Mai Poke village, Tongkwai Wolai village-tract, Mong Pan Township. [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.55. On 17 May 1995, SLORC LIB 513 from Panglong ransacked Na Law village, Kho Oot village-tract, Mong Nai Township in southern Shan State, at which Pi Sang Su lost 4,100 Ks worth of rice and paddy, Pa Loi Ing lost 3,000 Ks worth of paddy, Pi Nan Taw lost 1,650 Ks worth of rice, paddy and cooking oil, Pi Nan Tar lost 10,750 Ks worth of livestock and rice and Pi Su Nan Ti lost 2,675 Ks worth of rice, paddy and cooking utensils.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.56. On 17 May 1995, SLORC troops led by Maj Sa Thun from Mong Nai-based LIB 518 arrived at Worn Loong Murng village, Worn Norng village-tract, Namsang Township, southern Shan State. The villagers were ordered to hand over five 4-gallon tins of rice, two bottles of cooking oil, two chickens and 15 viss of pork. [Source: SHRF]

6.12.57. On 19 May 1995, SLORC troops from LID 77 and IB 76, reached Thay Ko Der village, Papun District.  They spent 3 days in the village and committed looting the belongings and livestock of the villagers. They also tortured some villagers they had captured in surrounding villages. On 20 and 21 May, skirmishes broke out between SLORC and KNLA troops in the area.  On 22 May, the SLORC troops burned 12 of 15 houses in the village and several rice barns.  Rice which was not burned was either taken by the troops or thrown on the ground.  When they left, they took three men and five women with them.  The victims were tied with rope and with soldiers’ packs on their backs.  The soldiers used them as guides, porters and human mine-sweepers along the way to their camp near Papun, and then released.  On the same day, they also burned several houses in Lay Wah village.  Later on, most villagers fled from Thay Ko Der. But they were blocked by SLORC troops on the way and along the road that linked Papun and Kyauk Hnyat to prevent the villagers from reaching the Thai border.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.58. On 21 May 1995, SLORC and DKBA troops came to Kaneh Haw Hta village in Papun District, burned down two houses and destroyed paddy, rice, fish-paste and cooking pots throughout the entire village. They took one gold chain and a pair of earrings from a family.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.59. On 25 May 1995, SLORC soldiers ordered all villages in De Kaw Poh village-tract, Pa-an Township, to pay a total of 272,000 Ks for the construction of a motorway between Waw Dreh and Ka Ma Maung.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.60. On 29 May 1995, Palaw Township LORC issued an order to nine villages — Du Yin Pin Chaung, Palaw Pya, Shan Doh, Mi Kyaun Thet Kyeh, Tamay Me Sa, Bee Cha, Wa Zone Owt, and Sin Toh (name of ninth village not provided) —  around Palaw [50 km. north of Mergui] that each village must pay 10,000 Ks for “football fee” by 15 June 1995.  In Palaw Township, there were 23 villages which had to compete in the “Palaw Township Rainy Season Football Match”.  Each village had to pay 30,000 Ks for its team while any village which was not able to send a team also had to pay the same amount.  Each of these villages also had to pay 10,000 Ks for “Tenasserim Division Sports Fund”.  [Source: KHRG]

6.12.61. On 30 May 1995, a new railroad that linked Tavoy-Yebyu in Tenasserim Division was opened by SLORC.  The train ticket for each passenger cost 10 Ks which is the same price as the bus fare before the railroad was built. Local people are now very disappointed because they have expected cheaper fare than the private bus when the government-owned railroad finished.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.62. In June 1995, IB 17 Comdr Maj Tun Hla gave orders to the farmers, who cultivated rice on the hill-side around Ba Ta Nya village, Mergui District, that they were even in the daytime not allowed to go to or stay or sleep in their fields.  Then he led his troops into the fields and burned down all the huts there.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.63. In June 1995, the SLORC troops entered Thay Ko Der village in Papun District, burned down all houses and rice barns, forced the villagers to move to Wah Mee Day village (6 miles away) at gun point and left them there without food. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.64. On 1 June 1995, about 150 soldiers from IBs 101 and 103 went to Mi Chaung Thike village, Palaw Township and column Comdr Maj Hla Kyi demanded ten chickens, five ducks, ten bottles of cooking oil and 2,000 Ks in cash.  The village head had to collect these items from the villagers.  On 15 June, the same column returned to the village again in order to conscript the villagers for portering.  When the villagers escaped, the soldiers entered their houses and stole a total of 71,000 Ks worth of properties belonged to eight people.  Losing most of their belongings plunged the people into a very difficult situation.   [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.65. On 4 June 1995, Township LORC office in Palaw demanded 10,000 Ks from Zarde Win village for “Rainy Season Sports Fund”.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.66. On 5 June 1995, SLORC Coy 1 of LIB 520 arrived at Mai Hung Ek village, Torng Kwai Wolai village-tract in Mong Pan Township, southern Shan State, and forcibly took away rice, paddy, livestock and household utensils belonged to Saw Ping Na (42) & Nang Hong (31), Nang Sai (29), Loong Sara Mard (55), Nang Kit (28), Ee Toong (25), Mae Tao Mone (66), Loong Rang Wuna (57), Pi Khin (46), Pi Kan Ti La (44), Pala (53), Pa Nang (54), Loong Khin Min Ta(59) and Loong Mong without compensation. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.67. On 8 June 1995, a SLORC Army camp in Palaw Township demanded 300 sheets of roofing thatch from both Kyauk Leik and Palaw villages to roof the buildings there.  Moreover, each village had to provide 50 bamboo posts and 25 wooden posts for repairing of those buildings.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.68. On 9 June 1995, a column from SLORC IB 103 arrived at Bee Cha village, Palaw Township, and met with the Village LORC chairman and his group.  The column commander ordered the chairman to take responsibility in providing food for the soldiers.  The chairman and his group collected money from about 150 houses and raised 15,000 Ks.  Then they bought two pigs costing a total of 10,000 Ks.  They had to send 2 pigs and the remaining 5,000 Ks to the major of the column.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.69. On 11 June 1995, about SLORC 50 troops form IB 103 led by Lt Myint Aung entered Oke Pone village, Palaw Township, and forcibly took seven baskets of rice, 50 chickens and two pigs from the villagers.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.70. On 12 June 1995, Coy 1 of SLORC LIB 520 ransacked Wan Mai Longtong village, Tong Kwai Wolai village-tract, Mong Pan Township in southern Shan State, in which Paw Tao Pan (58) & Pa Nyunt (54), Me Tao Leng (61), Pa None (57), Loong Kong Oong (53), Zaw Ta (46), Me Tao Larn (65) and Loong Sai (62) were victims who lost their livestock. [Source:  S.H.A.N.]

6.12.71. On 15 June 1995, a column from SLORC IB 101 went into Bee Cha village, Palaw Township, and looted 64,000 Ks worth of properties from the villagers.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.72. On 16 June 1995, SLORC troop from Lai Hka-based IB 64 plundered Na Law village, Kho Oot village-tract, Mong Nai Township in southern Shan State, at which Me Pa Pe lost 1,170 Ks worth of rice and household utensils, and Pi Kaw Ling lost 600 Ks worth of cooking oil.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.73. On 20 June 1995, it was announced over the SLORC media that 200 viss of raw opium were seized in Tueng Taek and Thilalue villages, in Pinlaung Township, southern Shan State. It was not stated whom the opium belonged to.  On 29 June 1995, S.H.A.N. was able to find out the reality — Maj Khin Yee and Maj Chit Than from Hpe Khon-based SLORC LIB 336 ordered local people from La Teng village to provide 37 viss of raw opium, those from La Ee village to provide 150 viss and those of Thilalue village to provide 50 viss, in a total of 267 viss. The villagers were ordered to gather the opium and hide it in a particular place in the forest.  They were also threatened by the SLORC troops of searching houses and arrests in case of disobeyed.

The villagers were afraid of all their belongings being confiscated and of being punished for growing opium.  They therefore had no alternatives, instead just placed the opium at the designed place which led SLORC to be able to fabricate the media a seizure of 200 viss of opium. The remaining 67 viss was kept by the SLORC commander himself.

The commander was apparently very pleased with the success of the operation, and he gave a speech to the villagers saying, “Don’t grow opium on your foreheads. Grow it in the backyard of your houses and keep it away from any camera.”  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.74. On 22 June 1995, SLORC troops from Kunhing-based LIB 196 and Namsang-based LIB 247 arrived at Loi Oon village, Loi La village-tract, Mong Nai Township in southern Shan State, and forcibly took away some cattle belonged to Pi Koo Na, Loong Yi, Loong Moo Ling, Pa Ong, Nang Lao and Loong Ong Kham.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.75. On 23 June 1995, SLORC IB 25 bombarded Thet Byu Chaung village, Tavoy Township, because some KNLA soldiers were harboured there.  All the villagers ran away. The SLORC soldiers took away their belongings and burned down the village, including a primary school and a monastery. The loss was about three million kyats.  There were about 160 families with 600 people, predominantly Buddhist, in that village.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.76. On 23 June 1995, farmland (three miles east to west and four miles north to south) located in the west of Hpe Khon Township, Shan State, was confiscated by SLORC and designated for a military base.  Nobody is allowed to cross (or enter) that confiscated farmland.  Local people and owners of that land not only lost about 8,000 acre of cultivating farm but also they were barred from entering into it.  Nobody dared to complain anything since those who did so were sent to jail.  [Source:  NLD-LA]

6.12.77. On 26 June 1995, 100 SLORC troops from IB 17 led by Maj Tun Hla arrived at Tha Kyet village, Tenasserim Township.  They entered and searched the houses of Naw Heh Naw and Saw Ben Jeh Moo under suspicion of having contacts with the rebels.  They stole 10,000 Ks in cash and 5,000 Ks worth of properties from Naw Heh Naw’s house, and about 10,000 Ks worth of properties from Saw Ben Jeh Moo's house.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.78. In July 1995, each owner of the private motorboat in Tavoy Township, Tenasserim Division, whose boats running in Gamon Stream from Myitta village to other villages was ordered to pay a tax of 1,000 Ks to No. 19 Military Intelligence Unit in Taung Thonlon area.  The owners of 17 motor boats collected 17,000 Ks and sent to them. Unfortunately, members of the village LORC handed over the money to a battalion which was later known by MI 19. Then, owners of the boats were again ordered in October 1995 to pay the tax directly to MI 19.  Therefore, they had to collect another 17,000 Ks again, and gave it to the intelligence unit.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.79. Local SLORC Army ordered the people from the entire part of Hpe Khon Township, Shan State, to give the equivalent money to buy 90 horses within the set deadline in November 1995.  Therefore, each household in Hpe Khon was subjected to pay at least 350 Ks. The fees rose in the less populated quarters.

Similarly, the people there had to pay 300,000 Ks for the Student Sports Festival. The people from five quarters of Hpe Khon Township, including Nyaung Gone Quarter, in spite of poor living condition, were subjected to pay against their will for both porter fees and funds for sports festival.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.12.80. On 9 July 1995, SLORC LIB 425 commanded by Bn Comdr Nyunt Aye and Deputy Bn Comdr Tin Nyein, forced each village-tract in Demoso Township, Karenni State, to pay five baskets of rice and five viss of cooking oil for the army ration.  [Source:  NLD-LA]

6.12.81. On 12 July 1995, 200 SLORC troops from IB 101 led by Coy Comdr Kain Za Lay penetrated Bee Cha village in Palaw Township and forcibly took 21,750 Ks worth of properties from the villagers.  Moreover, the villagers had to pay a monthly porter fees of 5,000 Ks.

The following day, this company commander seized a motorcycle belonged to Saw Kwen Pho, 40 years old. He asked the village headman to find the key for him and then the headman did it. He accused Saw Kwen Poh of passing SLORC’s information to the rebels.  Then, the commander said if Saw Kwen Poh wanted to take his motorcycle back, he must pay 10,000 Ks at Pe Loh army camp. But Saw Kwen Poh had to spend 15,000 Ks for the demand plus food for the soldiers.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.82. On 23 July 1995, the SLORC troops ordered the villagers from Ee Heh and Kyone M’Thweh village-tracts in Thaton District to bring all their rice to Ee Heh village and gathered at an intended place. The villagers were then delivered the food on a daily basis. To get their food, the villagers had to go twice for everyday to cover breakfast and dinner. The villagers were told that the order came from Tha Htro Kyaw, a DKBO leader.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.83. On 24 July 1995, SLORC penetrated into Htee Pa Doh Hta and Kyone Waing in Thaton District and ordered the villagers to bring them wooden and bamboo posts and to build huts for the soldiers. Furthermore, the soldiers ordered local people from Ler K’Ter and Ker Po villages to make a fence for them.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.84. Between July and August 1995, a group of militia in Mong Pan accompanied with 60 troops from SLORC LIB 520 led by Bn second-in-command Maj Nyan Win penetrated into villages such as Tung Tsu, Warn Hwe Tsoi, Warn Torng Kaii, Warn Wo Laii and Warn Pung Khur of Mong Pan Township, southern Shan State. Accusing the villagers of supporting MTA, all the headmen and males were arrested.  The militia acted as mediators between the captives and captors. Those who could afford to pay 20,000 Ks were released. From each of the captive, the militia got a share of 5,000 Ks while the captors got 15,000 Ks. Unable to bear this extortion, the villagers have now deserted their villages.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.85. Since August 1995, SLORC troops from IB 35 led by Maj Kyi Soe and DKBA have been staying in Meh Naw Ther, Ee Thu Kee and Wah Kay village-tracts in Thaton District.  They have regularly entered the villages, eaten the villagers’ rice and livestock and looted whatever they wanted.  They frightened the villagers by beating and accusing them of collaborating with KNU.  Some villages have been forced to move to Ler Ka Sha.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.86. In August 1995, Cpl Sew Oo (Serial No. 565954) from LIB 401 had an argument with his officer over the unfair treatment between the officers and other ranks, and hit him. Cpl Swe Oo was sentenced to one year and a half imprisonment by the Comdr of LIB 401 and was sent to Tavoy prison.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.12.87. On 2 August 1995, household utensils and money from villagers in Zarde Win village in Palaw Township, Tenasserim Division, were looted by a SLORC military column commanded by Maj Hla Kyi from IB 101 and Maj Soe Win from IB 17. Of which the following persons were the victims.

No.      Name                 Loss of household utensils      Loss of money in cash

1. Saw Thar Shell                      5,000 Ks                                   6,000 Ks

2. Saw Kya Lay                                    2,000 Ks                                   8,500 Ks

3. Saw Me De                          3,000 Ks                                   1,000 Ks

4. Saw Pe Kay                        15,000 Ks                                  1,500 Ks

5. Saw Te De                           4,500 Ks                                   1,000 Ks

6. Saw Mu Say                                     4,000 Ks                                      500 Ks

7. Saw Say Lwal                       2,000 Ks                                   1,000 Ks

8. Daw Taw Hla Myain                        40,000 Ks                                 10,000 Ks                                  —————————————————————————————                                         Total                                                    75,500 Ks                                29,500 Ks

When the SLORC military column went into the village, all the villagers fled in order to escape from portering.  Then the SLORC troops entered the houses and took away money and household utensils such as radio, cassette recorder, traditional silver bowl, new clothes, sewing machine and etc.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.88. On 10 August 1995, Daw Naw Jew (40) from Myitta village in Tavoy Township was fined 10,000 Ks by a Company of IB 25 for absence to inform the army that two guests were sleeping in her house.  The army fined her at 5,000 Ks for each guest.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.12.89. On 16 August 1995, 80 SLORC troops commanded by Capt Than Sein from IB 101 penetrated into Nawbal village in Palaw Township and seized a 70-kg-weigh pig, fifty chickens, 16 kg of fish and 2,000 Ks worth of commodities from a small store, causing the owner lost about 12,000 Ks.  [Source:  ABSDF]

6.12.90. On 22 August 1995, more than 60 troops from SLORC IB 33 which was stationed at the camp of Larng, Mong Tom village-tract, Lashio Township, northern Shan State, forced the people in Mong Tum village-tract to buy them three horses. As each horse cost 40,000 Ks, different villages had to share for the horses.  Koon Morng, Fa Laii, Na Kor and Ho-kor villages were responsible for one horse and Norng Kham, Norng Tsarn, Korng Lom and Fai leng villages had to buy another while the third one went to Peng Karng Korng Kham, Norng Hee and Worn Kao Long village.

The rest of the villages had to submit their bullock-carts for use by the SLORC troops for five days.  The Burma Army made their demands to the villagers by sending letters with bullets. If the villagers delayed in sending the letters, they would receive doubled punishment. If the bullets in these letters were lost, the villagers would have to pay 10,000 Ks for missing of a single bullet. [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.91. In September 1995, SLORC LIB 408 confiscated about 750 acres of farmland and rubber plantation in Chaung Zon village, Yebyu Township, without giving any compensation. These confiscated lands were designated as belongings of the army. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.92. More than 200 troops from a joint military column of SLORC IBs 17 and 101 led by Bn Comdr Hla Kyi, Coy Comdr Soe Wein, Capt Tan Sein and Capt Than Tor Oo entered Zarde Win village, Palaw Township, Tenasserim Division, and committed looting to the families there.  All the villagers were subjected to looting — 1,660 Ks worth of belongings and 8,500 Ks in cash from Saw Ju Lay, 1,480 Ks worth of properties from Saw Pan Dain, 6,560 Ks worth of valuable items from Saw Lah Shan, 15,340 Ks from Saw Pe Kain, 35,000 Ks from Saw Tan Dain, 2,960 Ks from Saw Mu Sain and 51,800 Ks from Naw Aung Lar Pyo. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.93. For the construction of a bridge between Kye Nan Taing and Pa Taung village, District LORC of Mergui ordered local people from Ma Zaw village in Mergui Township to send them 60 tonnes of timber under an ultimatum saying that failure to meet the demand would face harsh punishment.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.94. Local people from Ta Kar village in Mergui who were forced to contribute labour for the constriction of Mergui-Kawthaung  motorway were also forced to send chickens everyday to the troops from IB 17 based at Khone Maw village.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.95. For the of construction of Kye Nan Taing and Ban La Mut village (Mergui Township) part of the road that linked Mergui and Kawthaung which is still under construction, needed rocks were ordered to be sent from village-tracts in Mergui Township on compulsory basic by Mergui LORC or those failed to meet the demand were fined 2,000 Ks for one stone pitch. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.96. Each household in Tenasserim Township was forced to pay a monthly porter fee ranging 500 Ks to 1000 Ks.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.97. SLORC IBs 267 and 269 have been making their new bases near Ze Lone, Ze Har and Tha Bye Chaung villages in Tavoy Township.  To cover the required space, they have forcibly taken some of the plantations and farmlands belonged to the villagers.  They have also cut down mango, durian and other trees in the villagers’ orchards for wood.  They have ordered the villagers to saw wood for them without pay.  The villagers are forced to cut down their own mango and durian trees and then saw for SLORC.  No compensation is paid for the land, orchards or trees. [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.98. On 7 September 1995, SLORC troops from LIB 516 stationed at Namsang pillaged Nong Turk village, Wan Nong village-tract in Namsang Township, at which Loong Wi lost 45,160 Ks worth of belongings including two muskets, 20 silver coins, eight baskets rice, five baskets of soya bean, one Buddha image, one tape recorder and other household utensils; Pu Nyar lost 13,300 Ks worth of belongings including one musket and other household utensils and livestock; and Loong Ti Ya lost 1,775 Ks worth of household utensils and domestic animals.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.99. In  mid-September 1995, over 170 troops from SLORC LIB 516 patrolling from Keng Tung happened to meet with MTA at a place called Worn Loi Un village, Worn Norng village-tract, Namsang Township, southern Shan State. After a battle, SLORC troops demanded five oxen as a punishment from the villages for failing to inform them about the movement of MTA.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.100. On 16 September 1995, domestic animals and rice owned by Karen villages on Bosar Khee range in Taungoo District were seized by a SLORC column from IB 48 led by Maj Myint Han without any compensation.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.101. On 17 September 1995, a SLORC column from IB 35 torched Baw Naw Htar and Ah Le Gaw Htar village in Papun District, Karen State, and took away all the belongings of the villagers.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.102. On 18 September 1995, SLORC troops from Namsang-based LIB 247 entered Phar Sont village, Loi La village-tract, Mong Nai Township in southern Shan State, and committed a robbery at which Loong Ta lost  24,250 Ks worth of household utensils and clothing, two muskets and 6,000 Ks in cash; Loong Sun Ta lost 500 Ks worth of blankets, Loong Loi lost 1,500 Ks worth of one Buddha image; Pa Nyo lost 700 Ks worth of clothing and household utensils; Sai Thark On lost 2,000 Ks worth of rice-mill tools; and Ven. Saw Nan Ta, abbot of Phar Sont village monastery, lost 3,000 Ks in cash.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.103. At about 5:45 a.m. on 18 September 1995, Kho-lum-based 29 SLORC troops penetrated into Won Pha-Sorn village, Kho Oot village-tract of Namsang Township, southern Shan State, and found 5-6 members of MTA there when they swept the village. A fighting then broke out in the village.  Being afraid of the villagers killed in the battle, MTA had to retreat. After the battle, the SLORC troops savagely ransacked and looted property of the villagers which estimated at 200,000 Ks. The SLORC troops also arrested three girls — Nang Swe, Ee Lu and Ee Yuk, and asked the villagers to come up with five baht weight of gold in exchange for the girls within three days.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.104. On 25 September 1995, Bale Gaw village, Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division, was burned down and belongings of the villagers were seized by a SLORC column from IB 60.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.105. In October 1995, at Kler Ka, Kaw Thaway Do, Klay Sho Koh, Ler Joet, Wah Tho Koh, Ku Ler Doy, Maung Koh Do, Daw Doh, Pae Kaw Doh, Maung Pah Do, and Maung Sho Koh villages in the southern part of Papun Township, Karen State, each household had to pay a monthly fee of 200 Ks for ammunition baskets.  If any household attempted to escape, his or her family would be fined double for every month. These villagers have been conscripted to carry heavy loads of ammunitions and pieces of artillery without food.  [Source: KNU]

6.12.106. In October 1995, Township LORC in Tenasserim Township issued an order that all villages in the township to gather and send necessary pieces of rocks to the places fixed by the authorities for the construction of a motorway that linked Mergui and Victory Point (Kawthaung). The authorities also warned that if a village was not able to send necessary quota of rocks to the fixed place, the villagers would be taken effective action. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.107. In October 1995, Ya Wa Ta (village-level SLORC authority) chairman U Kyaw Myint and his committee resigned following his conflict with the civilians.  This problem occurred in Pa Hla village, Palaw Township, Tenasserim Division, when concerned Ya Wa Ta chairman was responsible to collect 6000,000 Ks from his village.  That money was to be used as social welfare, porter fees to SLORC, donations for sports tournaments and for the military column which was responsible for security of the village. According to the account statement, 2,000,000 Ks was missing.  The statement disclosed all the amounts of money forcibly collected by SLORC.  Then, SLORC threatened U Kyaw Myint not to reveal the realities regarding forced collection of money.  Therefore, U Kyaw Myint had to resign from his post as Ya Wa Ta chairman. According to the local source, the villagers were not satisfied with U Kyaw Myint and accused him of misappropriation. [Source: KNU]

6.12.108. In October 1995, Brig-Gen Kyi Aung of Southern Command sent IB 26, strength five companies, with orders to destroy villages and food supplies in Taungoo District.  Lt-Col Aung Naing Htun, Commander of 2nd MSC from Western Command, who based in Bawgali since August 1995, ordered all villagers in Bawgali, Kaw Thay Der, Klay Soe Kee, Ler Ko, Wah Tho Ko, Ku Lu Der, Maw Ko Der, Der Doh, Ku Plaw Der, Maw Pa Der, Gamu Der and Beh Khaw Der to pay 200 Ks per household per month as porter fees.  Anyone who tried to refuse was fined 2,000 Ks.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.109. On 5 October 1995, about 60 men from a combined forces of Kunhing-based SLORC IB 196 and soldiers from a breakaway faction of MTA led by Phoo Mar plundered the Palaung village of Tard Lai, Wan Lao village-tract in Kunhing Township, southern Shan State, at which Loong Zerm (45) lost three horses which worth 60,000 Ks and Loong Kyong (50) lost 13 pigs, a National-model tape recorder, 56 baskets of paddy and one sewing machine.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.110. On 8 October 1995, SLORC LIB 244 from Kengtung forced people in Murng Puk area, Kengtung Township, eastern Shan State, to buy mules for them — one mule per village. Tong Long village, Kho Ken Na Noi village, Pung Sai village, Wan Ping village and Wan Urm village had to collect money among them. Each village had to pay 6-70,000 Ks.  SLORC then forced the villagers to change any mule which was not in their satisfaction. The villagers had to feed and look after the mules and also had to serve as muleteers. Those who could not go were fined 200 Ks per day.  If any mule fell sick, people had to buy a new one.  This has been going on until now.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.111. On 14 October 1995, SLORC troops from IB 101 entered Taung Paw village in Palaw Township, Tenasserim Division, razed all houses and a church to the ground. It was burned after a clash between 7th Bn of KNU and IB 101 was occurred.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.112. On 17 October 1995, about 70 soldiers from IB 25 led by Coy Comdr Mya Nyin entered Pe Ta Ka village, Tavoy Township and took 3,050 Ks worth of properties from Saw Maung Toe, Saw Than Kain, Saw Kain Myint, Saw Tain Tong, Saw Tong La, Saw Tin Lin, Saw Thaung Nyo, Saw Tin Maung and Saw Than Myint. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.113. On 18 October 1995, after killing eight innocent villagers at Saw Wah Der village in Taungoo District, SLORC troops from IB 26 commanded by Lt-Col Myint Aung burned down seven huts, 27 paddy barns and paddy fields. Then, they went into Saw Wah Do village and took away everything belonged to the people. They killed 15 cows on that day for a big feast for themselves. The troops were also ordered to shoot, kill, and destroy every paddy field belonged to Karen civilians.  [Source:  KNU/KHRG]

6.12.114. On 23 October 1995, all the paddy fields and belongings of the villagers in Khaw Bu Htow village, Taungoo District, were destroyed by SLORC troops from IB 26 commanded by Maj Aye Kyaw.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.115. On 24 October 1995, SLORC troops from LIB 20 together with DKBA soldiers Mo Kyo, Maw Ler and Ber Kha entered Klaw Hta village in Thaton District and stole five cattle and two calves from Naw Kyaw.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.116. On 25 October 1995, the house of Kha Laela village headman in Thandaung Township was dismantled by SLORC soldiers commanded by Lt-Col Aung Naing Htun, Comdr of 2nd MSC from Western Command.  Moreover, all the houses from Wabo Kho, Kalay So Khee and Ka Pudae villages in the same township were also dismantled and moved to Kha Laela village.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.117. On 27 October 1995, after Columns 1 and 2 of SLORC IB 26 led by Lt-Col Myint Aung and Maj Aye Kyaw killing Saw Heh Tha Blay (male, 30) from Ta Aye Kee village, Taungoo District, they burned down the entire village of Ta Aye Kee, a Roman Catholic Church, and all the surrounding fields, and shot all the livestock they saw in the village.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.118. At the end of October 1995, township-level LORC (Ma Wa Ta) chairman held a meeting with village-level LORC authorities (Ya Wa Ta) in Palaw Township, Tenasserim Division.  The purpose of that meeting was to collect “donation” from all the villages in Palaw Township in order to upgrade Tavoy College to a Degree College. Each village had to pay 22,000 Ks to  Township SLORC office.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.119. Since November 1995, SLORC has intensified its campaign of attacking villages in Papun District, ordering the villagers to move to army camps, killing local people, burning houses, churches, fields and harvested paddy on the threshing floors, and stealing or destroying people’s belongings.  Villages subjected to attacks in November 1995 included Saw Wah Der, Maw Thay Der, The Ay Kee, May Daw Ko, Per Loh, Hoh Thu Toh, Go Heh Der and Saw Mu Der.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.120. In Saw Mu Plaw village-tract (northern Papun District), SLORC troops from IB 30 have been encamping at Lu Thaw Ko and Paw Day Ker villages.  They moved throughout the area, taking the villagers’ rice and burning down rice barns.  Whenever they saw villagers outside the villages, they shot at them.  Most villagers no longer dared to stay in their villages and had been living in hiding in the jungle, not daring to tend their rice-fields.  They could not carry away enough food from their villages when they fled, and they were living on very little rice mixed with roots, fruits and leaves they were able to find in the forest.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.121. On 7 November 1995, Coy 3 of Lai Hka-based SLORC IB 64 went into Nong Phar village, Kho Oot village-tract, Mong Nai Township in southern Shan State, and robbed Loong Thoon Marn and Pa Thorn’s house at which the couple lost 150,000 Ks worth of properties.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.122. On 17 November 1995, SLORC troops from Lai Hka-based IB 64 penetrated into Kieng Kham village, Loi La village-tract, Mong Nai Township in southern Shan State, and committed looting at which Loong War Ling lost a total of 44,190 Ks worth of properties including three horses, rice, livestock and other household utensils.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.123. On 20 November 1995, Capt Nyan Lwin, a Coy Comdr from SLORC LIB 520, ordered the people from Nong Lomke village (about 40 houses), Tong Zu village (50 houses), Hui Zoi (50 houses), Wan Kyong (20 houses), Pung Zun (20 houses) and Nar Won (10 houses) in Mong Pan Township, southern Shan State, to provide horses for the army.  Each village was responsible for provision of one horse or money which was enough to buy one horse within ten days. 

Later on, LIB 332 again ordered the people from these six villages to do the same thing.  Thus, each village had to provide money for two horses (2-50,000 Ks for one horse).  SLORC told the villagers that the army would use these horses to carry their things instead of forcing people into portering.  Even after they had received the money, they still asked for porters and no horse was seen.

The people from Hui Zoi village said that because of the disturbance created by SLORC, two scheduled and planned religious ceremonies to be held in October 1995 was cancelled.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.124. Starting from 21 November 1995, SLORC troops led by Column Comdr Tin Aye went to Saw Bweh Der, Day Taw Kee, Kaw Meh Law Kee and Toh Wih Der villages, Papun District, looted everything they wanted and destroyed everything they didn’t want.  Villagers in this area were not able to harvest their paddy this year (1995) because they had to run away and hide in fear of SLORC troops.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.125. On 26 November 1995, SLORC LIB 512 at Mawkmai, southern Shan State, ordered five village-tracts in the area to buy two horses for the army and bring four teak logs each to make boats to launch an offensive in the MTA-controlled areas.  Unable to bear the burden, Nar Sai village headman, Pu Heng Thum Yane, had to abandon his house and flee.  There are seven quarters and about 30 villages in Mawkmai Township.  [Source:  S.H.A.N]

6.12.126. On 10 December 1995, SLORC troops led by Lt-Col Khin Maung Win of IB 55 ordered several villages in Taungoo District to move to a settlement at Tha Pyay Nyunt army camp, and said that any village failing to move would have to pay a fine of 30,000 Ks and a cow worth 5,000 Ks.  On 19 December 1995, the villagers paid the fines as ordered rather than moving. But on 23 January 1996, orders were given that food and commodities were no longer allowed to flow to their villages.  Villagers who had gone to Taungoo to buy supplies were not allowed to return home, and are currently living stranded in other villages.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.127. On 16 December 1995, Strategic Commander Myo Hla of Western Command called a meeting at Bawgali, Taungoo District, and ordered that all villages near the motorways will have to provide security for the road.  In the area along the way from Bawgali to Bu Sah Kee, no sound of a gunshot or mine explosion must be heard — otherwise, they will cut off the flow of all food and goods between Taungoo and the villages, and all the villagers will be forced to move to the side of motorway.  He ordered that no villager can sleep in their farm huts, and if seen there at night he/she will be killed.  Moreover, local people from Kaw Thay Der village are not allowed to go to or stay in Taungoo Town, and those who are currently in Taungoo are not allowed to return home.  He said if the soldiers saw any villager from Kaw Thay Der village in the car to or from Bawgali, that car would be burned.  [Source:  KHRG]

6.12.128. On 17 December 1995, a column from SLORC LIB 551 led by Bn Comdr Kyaw Kyaw entered Yeh Mu Plaw and Say Peh Hta villages in Papun District and reduced some houses to ashes.  One Church and 199 baskets of paddy were also burned.  Moreover, some poultry and buffaloes were taken away by the troops.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.129. On 17 December 1995, SLORC troops from IB 53 entered Yeh Mu Plaw area, Papun District.  At Dta Ku Der village, the soldiers looted the villagers’ belongings, including 740 baskets of paddy, three baskets of rice, livestock and cooking pots.  They stayed in the area until 23 December 1995.  [Source:  KNU/KHRG]

6.12.130. At 1:00 p.m. on 28 December 1995, about 30 armed men from DKBA crossed into Thailand and committed a robbery at Butukaloe village.  They robbed a gold necklace from Nanta, 5,000 bhat in cash from schoolteacher Si Kya and arrested Lee Cha, son of Saw Phaw Thay. [Source:  KNU]

6.12.131. On 28 December 1995, SLORC troops which was attacked by KNU near old Khaw Phoe Pa Leh village and suffered one soldier seriously wounded took away two cows belonged to the villagers from Michaung Ai village in Thaton District.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.132. At 4:00 p.m. on 29 December 1995, about 150 SLORC troops from IB 63 led by Maj Than Win arrived at Saw Phoe Khee village in Papun Township, attacked the village and took away all the money donated during the Christmas, crops and other valuable belongings of the villagers. Some villagers who were not fast enough to escape were arrested by the troops and beaten up.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.133. On 29 December 1995, a joint military column of SLORC LIB 105 and DKBA arrived at Khae Par Htar village in northern Papun District, razed four houses and all rice barns to the ground, took away properties of the villagers and killed the livestock.  [Source:  KNU]

6.12.134. On 29 December 1995, SLORC troops from IB 63 entered Meh Way area in Papun District and looted the villagers’ belongings, household items and rice from Meh Paw Kee, Pway Bwa Kee, Toh Meh Kee, and Noh Boh Law villages.  [Source:  KHRG] 

6.12.135. On 30 December 1995, SLORC troops from LIBs 391 and 105 (both are under LID 77) led by Lt-Col Tin Yu went into the Yah Kee forest in Papun District

I. Extra-judicial, Summary or Arbitrary Executions

II. Arbitrary Detention and Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances  III. Rights of Child

IV. Forced Labour and Slavery  V. Forced Relocation and Internally Displaced Persons

VI. Deprivation of Livelihood  VII. Minority Protection

VIII. Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, Degrading Treatment or Punishment

IX. Freedom of Belief:  Discrimination Against the Right to Practice Religion and Intolerance

X. Freedom of Opinion and Expression  XI. Freedom of Assembly and Association  XII. Freedom of Movement   
XIII. Abuse of Women   XIV. The Refugees Situation and Forced Repatriation

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