Sources from nationalist circles involved in following Zaw Bhone Hein’s case have confirmed that he will be transferred to Obo Prison in Mandalay after receiving an 11-year prison sentence for insulting military leader Min Aung Hlaing and other military officials in Yangon. The court handed down the sentence on August 7th without prior notice, reportedly due to concerns about potential protests from his supporters. The decision to transfer him to Obo Prison comes amid ongoing efforts by his family and supporters to secure visitation rights.
Zaw Bhone Hein faces four separate cases and has been sentenced to 11 years of imprisonment with hard labor for each case. His supporters are currently working to arrange prison visits, which they have been informed will be possible once he arrives at Obo Prison. The military arrested him on June 2nd in the afternoon at his residence in Pyin Oo Lwin. On June 12th, he was charged under multiple sections including Section 505(a) of the Penal Code for sedition and Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law.
Additionally, Zaw Bhone Hein faces another case filed by Ma Moe Moe Khaing, a supporter of the military and Ma Ba Tha (Buddhist nationalist organization), at the Dagon Myothit (South) Township Police Station in Yangon Region under Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law for allegedly insulting Min Aung Hlaing and other high-ranking military officials. He will have to continue fighting this case online while in prison. His family members and supporters have criticized the sentences as unjust and politically motivated, highlighting the ongoing suppression of dissent by the military authorities.
