22 PDFs, including one AA member, rejoin legal fold with arms

The government is extending an invitation to those involved in various armed groups, including the PDF, to return to the legal fold. Those who do so are being provided with necessary assistance and support.

A total of 21 PDF members — 20 males and one female, and one AA male member — totalling 22 individuals entered the legal fold yesterday. They were handed over to their parents or guardians at the Aye Chan Phyo Hall of the Southern Command Headquarters.

These returning members stated that they could no longer accept the terrorist acts committed by the armed groups and PDF, such as forced conscription, threatening, arresting, and killing innocent civilians and civil servants for the benefit of terrorist organizations, planting mines and destroying non-military infrastructure like roads and bridges. They also cited discrimination, internal hierarchical oppression, torture, killings, violence, poor living conditions, and demoralization due to an inability to resist Tatmadaw operations as reasons for leaving. Moreover, they expressed trust in the State and Tatmadaw’s peace processes and a desire to live peacefully under the law, hoping to contribute back to the State and people whom they had caused losses to.

These 22 individuals from Nyaunglebin, Shwegyin, Shwedaung, Yedashe, Padaung, Okpo, Minhla, Pyu and Paukkhaung townships of Bago Region entered the legal fold, and were accepted by responsible officials.

At the handover ceremony, PDF members were handed over to their parents or guardians at Aye Chan Phyo Hall of the Southern Command Headquarters yesterday.

The returnees handed over 13 assorted firearms, 569 bullets, 16 magazines, four grenades, seven 40MM grenade shells and 88 lead bullets. Authorities provided cash rewards and assistance worth K58 million to the returnees.

The returnees signed pledges and were handed back to their parents or guardians.

There are still individuals who wish to return to the legal fold. Those who intend to do so are encouraged to promptly contact and report to the nearest Tatmadaw bases or police stations. They will be welcomed and accepted, provided with the necessary assistance and support, and cash rewards for any arms and ammunition.

MNA/KTZH

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