By Ko Paing / MPA
Local People Defense Forces (PDF) are working to clear landmines planted by the military junta around the Gamone Dam in Okpho Township, Bago Region, according to reports.
On the morning of 23 October, military troops planted landmines around the Gamone Dam before retreating. Later that day, around 3:00 PM, they set fire to Kan Ni village, resulting in the destruction of 24 houses, according to the Okpho Township Guerrilla Force.
“It is not yet clear how many landmines there are. Nearby villages, including Sintae Kone, Kan Ni, and Ta Nga Kone, are now deserted, and the villagers have become homeless. Six women were taken to Wine Police Station as human shields. As of yesterday evening, five were released, but one remains in custody,” Ko Dewa, commander of the Okpho Township Guerrilla Force told MPA on the evening of 24 October.
The six women were reportedly arrested from the Baw Bin forest area.
After setting fire to Kan Ni village, the military column retreated to no.6 Light Infantry Battalion (Tain Myoke battalion) via the Waim Yae Police Station, according to sources.