At least six female political prisoners from Obo Prison in Mandalay Region were killed in a powerful earthquake, the Political Prisoners Network-Myanmar (PPNM) announced on 5 April.
The six confirmed victims are Ma Moe Thuzar Naing, Daw Lei Lei Moe, Daw Khin Ohn Shwe, Ma Kay Kay Win, Ma Pa Pa Win, and Ma Phu Wai Wai. At least 40 people have not received medical treatment, PPNM said.
Ko Thaik Tun Oo, a member of the PPNM steering committee, said the deaths were caused by the collapse of women’s dormitories 1 and 2 in Obo Prison during the powerful earthquake that struck on 28 March.
“They died in the earthquake because they were living in overcrowded conditions. It coincided with lock-up hours. The high death toll can be attributed to the fact that people were confined to their rooms at the time. They died from their injuries, though some did not die immediately. There were also those who passed away outside,” said Ko Thaik Tun Oo.
Six political prisoners were killed in the earthquake on 28 March. PPNM stated that the announcement was only made on 5 April due to the prison authorities withholding information.
In addition, nine others are in critical condition. Currently, it is difficult to distinguish between the number of prisoners and prison staff.
“These six are the confirmed minimum number, and the remaining figures are still being verified. We are working to release the information we receive and can confirm in a timely manner. However, due to restrictions imposed by the prison authorities on the flow of information and access, our statement has been delayed,” said Ko Thaik Tun Oo.
On 28 March, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Sagaing, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, and the southern Shan State, killing 12 people in Obo Prison, including six prison staff.
PPNM stated that the prisoners at Obo Prison who were injured in the earthquake are in urgent need of emergency medical supplies, such as antiseptic, cotton, wound dressings, and bandages. Additionally, they are prohibited from contacting their families.
Sent by NMG
