A civilian named Ko Aung Lwin was severely injured and hospitalized in critical condition after being attacked with swords by members of the Pyu Saw Htee (also known as People’s Militia) in Ward 6 of Nyaungdon Township, Ayeyarwady Region. The incident occurred on June 25 at around 10 PM when Ko Aung Lwin and his wife were talking at their home. After hearing shouts about a thief, Ko Aung Lwin went downstairs to investigate. Upon checking, Pyu Saw Htee leader Bo Chit initially attacked Ko Aung Lwin’s face with a sword, followed by other Pyu Saw Htee members who joined in the assault using numbered clubs, police batons, and swords.
According to local residents, the Pyu Saw Htee members involved in the attack were identified as Bo Chit, Than Soe, Bone Ngo (aka) Zaw Min Aung, Raza Min, Sein Kular, Zin Oo, Naing Lin, Aung Zaw Htet, Zin Htet Ko, Karen Gyi, Than Oo, Soe Thein, Myint Maung, Nga Me, Kyaw Than, and Aung Ko Min. As a result of the attack, Ko Aung Lwin is currently receiving treatment as an inpatient at Maubin Hospital with severe injuries that are considered life-threatening.
Local residents suggest that the Pyu Saw Htee group’s presence at a civilian’s house late at night might have been intended for theft, and they resorted to violence when discovered by the homeowner. Furthermore, as the Pyu Saw Htee groups are militia forces maintained by the military junta, local police face difficulties in taking legal action against their crimes and offenses without military approval. Currently, the Nyaungdon Township Police Station has not filed any cases or taken action regarding this incident. The Pyu Saw Htee groups continue to operate with impunity as they are protected by the military council, making it challenging for law enforcement to prosecute their criminal activities.
