Myanmar Junta Steps Up Arrests of Supporters

Criticism of junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has sparked arrests within pro-military circles, including prominent regime supporter Zaw Phone Hein.

The well-known junta backer gained attention for vowing to self-immolate if the Northeastern Command in the northern Shan State capital, Lashio, fell. He was arrested at his home in Pyin Oo Lwin, Mandalay Region, on June 2 and sent to Mandalay for interrogation.

A Pyin Oo Lwin resident told The Irrawaddy: “He is facing charges under Article 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law in Yangon. But no one knows the exact reason for his arrest.”