Apr 4, 2008 (DVB), An official from the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army has denied accusations that the group was involved in the theft of a revered monk's body from a monastery on Tharmanya Hill.

The body of U Winiya, which has been displayed in a glass coffin at a monastery on Tharmanya Hill since his death four years ago, was stolen on 1 April by a group of armed men in combat uniforms.

There was speculation after the incident that members of DKBA had been responsible for the theft, but a DKBA official has denied any involvement by the group.

The Karen National Union has also stated that its members did not play any part in the theft.

Reporting by Naw Say Phaw