Group of 10 people including five Indians, one MP missing in western Myanmar

03 November 2019
Group of 10 people including five Indians, one MP missing in western Myanmar

The authorities are searching for a group of ten people including five Indian citizens and a Chin State MP, who have gone missing between Platwa and Kyauktaw townships in western Myanmar since this morning. 

The military, police and townships officials are searching for any information about their whereabouts.

Five Indian citizens, Chin State Upper House MP U Hwai Tin, two translators and two drivers left Platwa, Chin State for neighbouring Kyauktaw in Rakhine State at 8:00 am on Sunday but contact was lost in between. They were traveling by two speed boats and were supposed to arrive in Kyautaw at  about 10:00 am. 

Residents have expressed concern about their safety, noting they have not heard any news as of 4:00 pm. The area is notorious for armed conflict, notably between the Arakan Army (AA) and government troops. 

Former Energy and Municipal Development minister of Chin State Salai Issak Khin confirmed his fears. “I was shocked when I heard the news. I pray that this not happen what we are worried. If it happens, it will be something that is historic mistake. It will be something which residents of Platwa and Chin can never forget. I am in my prayer service for the safe return of them." 

Although he doesn’t refer directly to the AA, there is fear that the AA could abduct the group. However, there is no independent verification available to Mizzima so far. 

U Hwai Tin is a member of the ruling party National League for Democracy.