MNDAA Forces Arrest and Beat Two Local Men in Namphatkar

Two local men were reportedly abducted and beaten by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) in Namphatkar Village, Kutkai Township, Northern Shan State, according to one of the victims. 

One of the victims, identified as U Nyi (name changed for safety), a resident of Ward 4 in Namphatkar, told the Ta’ang Women’s Organization (TWO) that he was detained by Kokang (MNDAA) forces while on his way to cut firewood at 9:30 a.m. on March 16.

“I was going to chop wood near the police station where Kokang soldiers were hoisting their flag,” U Nyi (not his real name) recounted. “They arrested me and took me to the station. They accused me of spying them, and interrogated me, asking who the wood was for and if I was cutting it for soldiers. They tied my hands behind my back and beat me with bamboo sticks while questioning me about the location of Ta’ang military leaders. They didn’t believe me when I said I didn’t know. I was beaten so many times I lost count.”

U Nyi sustained injuries to his face, mouth, back, and both legs. He reported that he is still unable to eat properly due to his injuries and has visible wounds on his legs. 

He was eventually released after a local acquaintance intervened and guaranteed. 

In addition to U Nyi, another 40-year-old local man from Loi Gone Village was also reportedly detained and assaulted.

“A man from Loi Gone was also arrested and held with me. He was beaten with sticks as well,” U Nyi added. “I don’t know his name, but he was arrested about 12 P.M.. He was also badly injured.”

Reports indicate that there have been additional cases of Ta’ang youths being detained in Namphatkar. The exact number of detainees remains unconfirmed, and further investigations are ongoing and will be released.