May 20, 2008 (DVB), Despite the Burmese military regime's claims that anyone found to have misappropriated aid intended for cyclone victims will be punished, investigations into allegations of corruption have not moved forward.
The junta announced in the state-run media that complaints of domestic or international aid and cash donations being kept or sold, could be sent to the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement.
Those who are responsible for the hoarding or appropriation of aid and cash donations will be charged, according to an SWRR official.He told DVB that once complaints have been received, local authorities would conduct further investigations into the claims and "take action against" those responsible. He also said that there were local special investigation teams to look into reports of misappropriation of aid and donations.
When asked what kind of action would be taken on the already-documented cases of the selling of relief supplies from military trucks, the official said the ministry would task local authorities to investigate the cases.
Reporting by Yee May Aung
