The members of the People's Commission reported on their findings regarding the tragic incident where nine individuals were killed in Lawa village, Hpakant Township, Kachin State, that had been shared with the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO/KIA) in April.
Alongside the findings obtained through the investigation conducted by the People's Commission, a list containing the names of individuals who were involved in instigating and promoting the incident was also submitted.
On April 25, the three-month anniversary of the tragic incident that claimed the lives of nine individuals was commemorated. The following day, the KIO/KIA was informed about the establishment of a special judicial commission tasked with further addressing and investigating the case. According to a member of the aforementioned commission, it was disclosed to the Myitkyina News Journal that the KIO/KIA had been informed only about the establishment of a special judicial commission. However as of now, no formal meetings or discussions have taken place with the commission formed by the people.
The aforementioned commission member further expressed that despite the case having been ongoing for four months, no definitive response has been provided. Therefore, it was suggested that the KIO/KIA should conduct official meetings and discussions with the commissions formed by the people, aiming to establish trust and address the concerns of the community effectively.
"So far they have not had a formal discussion or meeting with the commission. Treating this matter lightly will only exacerbate the problem. The key concern is that the reputation of the KIO/KIA will be impacted, leading to a decrease in people's trust," said a member.
In pursuit of uncovering the truth, both the People's Commission and the KIO/KIA have taken the initiative to form their respective commissions and are actively engaged in conducting investigations.
The Myitkyina News Journal has reached out to the KIO/KIA information officer regarding this matter, but as of now, they have not received a response.
The nine individuals who tragically lost their lives were in the age range of 20 to 50.
Their names are U Kyaw Soe from Mogaung Township, Ma Khawn Bu and Ma Nan Lwam from Sarhmaw Village, U La Zun Tu Lwan, Tun Aye (also known as Ma Shaung), U Shei, U Tun Yon, U Tun Yon, Phoe Tote from Bhamo Township, and U Yaw Han from Namti Township.
The nine individuals who tragically lost their lives were detained by the KIA/PDF on January 24 while they were fishing near an agricultural farm owned by U Kyaw Soe in Lawa village. U Kyaw Soe, hailing from Mogaung, was not only the owner of the farm but also a victim of the incident.
Following the arrest, seven bodies were discovered in a pit, measuring 7 feet in width, located approximately 2 miles away from Lawa village. Additionally, two bodies were found buried in a separate pit.