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Fatal shooting sparks fear of conflict in Kutkai

The family of a teenager who was shot in Kutkai Township, Shan State, in July is demanding an investigation into his death.

Sixteen-year-old Martee, who is also known as Brang Nan, was sitting in his family’s farm hut, while recovering from an illness, when he was shot in the stomach.

Two friends who were with the boy got away unscathed, but Martee’s wounds were fatal.

The victim’s father, Naw Bauk, believes the Burmese Army shot his son and wants someone to be held accountable.

On 28 of July, I left my son at the farm hut with two of his friends, and Tatmadaw [Burmese Army] soldiers shot at them. I want an investigation into my son’s death,” he said.

The shooting has sparked fear among local residents in Lwengwin village and many are too afraid to work on their farms. 

Now people are too afraid to go work with army columns active in the area. People are afraid to go pick mushrooms in the forest,” said one farmer.

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Residents say the Burmese Army has been active in the area for the past few months and have clashed with Palaung rebels, the Ta-ang (Palaung) National Liberation Army (TNLA).

In June, Burmese troops fired artillery into a village in Kutkai, burning one house to the ground. Hundreds of villagers fled and are now living in displacement camps in the area.

The residents in Lwengwin village fear Martee’s death is a sign that the conflict is moving closer to them.

 

 

 

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