Statement of CSO Forum on recent deathly attacked to un-armed Community Led Anti-Drugs Campaign while eradicating opium fields

Date: 26th February 2016
Escalating drugs abuse problems in the eras of bygone juntas have created tragedy for the whole nation especially to the young generation and societies on the ground.
Recent world recorded seizure of drugs has been declared no owner and hundreds thousands acres of poppy cultivation across the country stressed the connection of high ranking military personnel and their allied groups in drug economy which has adverse impact on the dignity and sovereignty of the State and its own citizen.
We command and support community led anti-drugs campaign (Pat Jasan) in Kachin and Shan State as their non-violent measure is decent and targeting the common enemy of mankind conscientiously where State failed to take effective measures.
Pat Jasan campaign members had encountered violent attacked by unmarked armed groups holding military weaponry at the entrance of Sin Chyai village in Kam Pai Ti Township and 40 of them have been severely injured. Thus we, CSO Forum strongly condemn to the violent attack.
The area is strong hold territory of border guard forces (BGF) and under control of Northern Command of Kachin State government and violent attack was broke out in front of the state police force who declared to take security for the campaign. We want government of Myanmar to take immediate measures to investigate criminals and their supporters in accordance with the laws. We also demand to take full responsibility for the victims and provide adequate supports for their healthcare, social and security concerns.
We demand respective inter-governmental agencies to ensure the security of Pat Jasan members and their supporters including civilian currently taking peaceful demonstration against violent attack.
We recommend Pat Jasan leaders and concerned community leaders to refrain from the harmful act/activities vigilantly and strongly encourage developing strategic leadership and direction to help support.
We want new government to set priorities to address poppy cultivation and production including production, distribution, sale and consumption of all different substances to ensure rules of law and collaborate with Myanmar Thatmadaw, Police Force, Border Guard Forces, judiciary branch and including ethnic armed groups to fight against corruption and promote integrity.
Contact,
Aung Myo Min – 09448015306 (myominburma@gmail.com)
Theinni Oo – 09261207261 (theinnyoo@gmail.com)
Khon Ja – 09425288899 (khonja2014@gmail.com)