Nov 8, 2007 (DVB), Three members of Human Rights Defenders and Promoters in Bago division have each been sentenced to two years in prison, said the network’s leader Myint Aye.

The three were sentenced yesterday under section 505 (b) of the penal code, which covers causing public alarm and inciting offences against public tranquility.

Thet Oo, Zaw Htun and U Panita (also known as U Myint Aye), a monk who has now been disrobed and is treated as a layman, were sentenced to two-year prison terms by district judge U Maung Maung at Prome prison court.

"This is not according to the law and is a violation of human rights. This happens every day in our country," said Myint Aye.

Myint Aye said the three had been detained since at least 17 September.

Reporting by Naw Say Phaw