THE government is extending an invitation to those involved in various armed groups, including the PDF, to return to the legal fold. Those who do so are being provided with necessary assistance and support.
A total of 16 members of the PDFs entered the legal fold yesterday. These returning members stated that they could no longer accept the terrorist acts committed by the armed groups and PDF, such as forced conscription, threatening, arresting, and killing innocent civilians and civil servants for the benefit of terrorist organizations, planting mines and destroying non-military infrastructure like roads and bridges. They also cited discrimination, internal hierarchical oppression, torture, killings, violence, poor living conditions, and demoralization due to an inability to resist Tatmadaw operations as reasons for leaving. Moreover, they expressed trust in the State and Tatmadaw’s peace processes and a desire to live peacefully under the law, hoping to contribute back to the State and people whom they had caused losses to.
The 16 individuals from Insein township of Yangon Region, Lemyethna, Ingapu, Yekyi and Pathein of Ayeyawady Region reentered the legal fold yesterday and were accepted by responsible officials. At the handover ceremony, PDF members were handed over to their parents or guardians at Ayeyawady Hall of the South-West Command Headquarters yesterday.
At the event, the region chief minister and the commander gave an opening speech and briefed on legal matters. Then, the returnees handed over two rifles and four grenades to the commander.
The region chief minister and commander rewarded K5 million for one rifle, totalling K10 million for two rifles, K300,000 for one grenade, totalling K1.2 million for four grenades and K300,000 per returnee, totalling K4.8 million for 16. The reward amounted to K16 million.
The region chief minister, the commander, and the officials cordially greeted the participants and had a documentary photo taken together with them. There are still individuals who wish to return to the legal fold. Those who intend to do so are encouraged to promptly contact and report to the nearest Tatmadaw bases or police stations. They will be welcomed and accepted, provided with the necessary assistance and support, and cash rewards for any arms and ammunition. — MNA/KTZH
