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. The PDF members — 67 males and 16 females — entered the legal fold together with arms and munitions yesterday.
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.
The 83 individuals from different townships of Mandalay Region entered the legal fold, and were accepted by responsible officials. At the handover ceremonies, they were handed over to their parents or guardians at Yan Aung Myin Hall of Central Command and General Administrative Office of Madaya township yesterday.
Officials presented cash prizes K50 million for 10 automatic rifles (K5 million for one rifle), K2 million for one pistol, K1.5 million for three homemade gun (K500,000 for one homemade gun), K1.8 million for six grenade and homemade mines (K300,000 for one grenade and homemade mine), K4,150,000 for 83 individuals (K50,000 per person), totalling K59,450,000 to the returnees.
They inspected the arms and munitions and cordially greeted the attendees and served them with foodstuffs.
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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