The military junta has sentenced a young woman from Arakan State’s capital Sittwe to two years in prison under Section 505 (B) of the Penal Code for inciting unrest, according to sources close to her family.
The person sentenced is Ma Saw Khin Aye (aka Abu), a 27-year-old from Min Gan Ward, who was sentenced by the Sittwe District Court in the last week of February.
“We understand she was sentenced after being found guilty. She is currently in Sittwe Prison,” said a woman who is one of her family members.
The military junta prosecuted her for allegedly sharing “false news” that could cause public alarm. She was arrested at her home by junta soldiers in December 2024.
Ma Saw Khin Aye is also the owner of the “Khaing Htoo Air Ticket Sales” shop located north of Lawkananda Pagoda Pogada in Sittwe.
As conflicts intensify in Arakan State, local residents report that the military junta is arresting locals through various means and threatening their right to information.
“During this period, the military council is arresting people under various pretexts. They file cases with their preferred charges and impose prison sentences. They’re doing whatever they want. People have no right to speak,” said an Arakanese youth.
According to data collected, the military junta has arrested more than 16 residents from Sittwe and Kyaukpyu for sharing information, including posting, sharing, commenting, and uploading photos and videos on Facebook in 2024.
Among those arrested and charged, some have been sentenced, some have been released, and others are still facing ongoing legal proceedings.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG).