Tun Mon Thet (NSS) - April 19

Spokesperson of the State Administration Council of Myanmar Major General Zaw Min Tun denounced the falsely report of the Indian Express that Islamic terror group holding over 1600 Hindus and Buddhists directed by the Myanmar Tatmadaw.  

The Indian Express reported an unknown and unidentified source quoting that "With unrest and instability expanding to Buthidaung, the volatility has taken a new turn with Islamic terror groups working on behest of the military to kill and terrorise ethnic groups on the basis of religion. There are over 1600 Hindus and over 120 Buddhists who have been held hostage by them there at present,” on 15 April. 

Major General Zaw Min Tun also affirmed that Tatmadaw, security forces, police and civil servants never initiated or instigated to occur racial conflict. In reverse, the Rakhine insurgent AA creates racial conflicts in Rakhine State. 

Major General Zaw Min Tun said, “The Buthidaung Town holds Muslim population in majority. The town usually has the ability to maintain stability and control the potential racial crisis by collaboration of Muslim community, Rakhine community, Tatmadaw, Myanmar Police Force, security forces and civil servants. There might be disputes and minor clashes between different communities in Buthidaung but no major conflict is rarely happened. Now, the AA portrays to happen racial conflict in Buthidaung.” 

It is also reported that the AA, from time to time, forces locals from Muslim villages in surrounding of Buthidaung. 

Major General Zaw Min Tun said, “On 6 December 2023, the AA terrorists arrested Alman (a Muslim man’s name) who lives in No. 4 Ward of Buthidaung Township alleging that the victim was collaborating with the Myanmar Military. He (the arrested Muslim man) has not been released yet. What is more, the AA threatens the Muslim community that they will arrest like him if they coordinate with the Myanmar Military. 

Major General Zaw Min Tun did not confirm or mention the Indian Express’ report of 1600 Hindus and 120 Buddhists holding hostage.   

What is more, reports state that the AA insurgents launched heavy weapons to the non-military soft target on 17 April (on the new year day of Myanmar when Buddhist people conducted good merits and auspiciousness) in Buthidaung. In the incident, at least four were killed and nine others were injured by the explosions.