Weekly Update in HURFOM Targeted Areas (1-6 June 2021)

June 7, 2021

A weekly update by the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) on the situation on the ground. Summary data includes Mon State, Karen State, and Taninthayi Region.

24+ arrested
22+ detained
3+ injured
13+ motos were seized in Ye, Paung, Yebyu, and Hpa-an townships by the junta
12+ arrest warrants issued for civilians in hiding

Analysis

HURFOM field workers are increasingly at risk for their reporting and documentation activities. This week, two reporters from HURFOM target areas were sentenced to two years imprisonment by the military courts after being detained for nearly three months in jail. The persecution and unlawful rulings against civilians who are simply doing their jobs is disgraceful. Further, the fabrication of evidence against citizens only discredits the military’s war on the people further. The image of the Tatmadaw is one of terror, and no one is fooled by their state propaganda messaging which indicates otherwise.

Of those tortured, a 5-year-old boy is included. His mother was killed by the junta. Families are speaking out about the unlawful arrests and their loved ones. Many have not been seen or heard from since their arrest, as pro-bono lawyers appeal for their release and do as much as they can within the limitations of the junta. Homes are still be raided, property being violently destroyed and confiscated.

Four months since the Myanmar Coup, and HURFOM can say that the impacts in our target areas have indeed been devastating. However, the people remain resilient and showing defiance in creative ways through protest and boycotting of military products. We will continue to support them.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under Analysis, News