Dec 27, 2007 (DVB), The father of a protestor jailed in August has said he will file charges against Union Solidarity and Development Association and Swan Arr Shin members for unlawfully arresting his son.

Than Zaw Myint was arrested by USDA and Swan Arr Shin members on 28 August at Hle Dan junction in Kamar Yut township, Rangoon after joining a protest against the increase in fuel prices.

San Win, Thant Zin Myo, Kyaw Soe Win and another protestor from Hle Dan junction were arrested along with Than Zaw Myint.

The five are currently being held at Insein prison in Rangoon and are due to appear before Kamar Yut court on 31 December charged with violating sections 505 (b) and 147 of the penal code.

Section 505 (b) outlaws incitement to offences against the public tranquility and carries a maximum two-year prison sentence, while section 147 covers rioting and also mandates up to two years' imprisonment.

Tin Yu, Than Zaw Myint's father, said he intended to file charges against Swan Arr Shin and USDA members for their violent arrest of his son and the other demonstrators.

"There are photos everywhere of the event, which give evidence of the USDA and Swan Arr Shin members' behaviour," Tin Yu said.

"Since Swan Arr Shin and USDA claim to be civilians, they don't have the authority to make arrests , in fact, only the ministry of home affairs of the riot police can do that."

Tin Yu said he would also send a letter of complaint about the incident to junta leader senior general Than Shwe.

Reporting by Aye Nai