At least 20 political prisoners killed in Mandalay’s Obo Prison following Sagaing earthquake

Mizzima

At least 20 political prisoners were killed in Mandalay’s Obo Prison after Myanmar’s devastating 28 March earthquake, according to a joint statement released by seven political prisoner advocacy groups.

The statement revealed that aging and poorly maintained prison structures collapsed or were severely damaged during the powerful 7.7-magnitude quake, resulting in over 280 injuries and the deaths of 30 inmates, 10 male and 10 female political prisoners among them.

“Around 12 people died instantly during the quake. Others died in the following days while receiving medical treatment. The junta has actively suppressed information about the incident. We are continuing to verify the situation and will release updates accordingly,” said Ko Thaik Htun Oo, a member of the Steering Committee of the Political Prisoners Network-Myanmar (PPNM).