A civilian group resisting the military regime has detained a Catholic monk and a Baptist pastor, claiming both religious leaders are helping the military in Chin State.

“During interrogation, the father has confessed he is working with the Burma Army (BA),” an official from Chinland Defence Force informed Khonumthung News.

Both of the men who live in Surkhwa town, Hakha Township, were detained on July 26 while they were on their way to Hakha town to visit the military, the official said.

On May 8, the CDF chapter in Hakha attacked and seized a police station in Surkhua, later torching it. The incident attracted the attention of the BA, which sent soldiers to the town to attack CNF on May 31.

Almost everyone fled into the jungle, including residents living in ten villages nearby, along the Hakha to Matupi road.

According to CDF, the Catholic monk and pastor stayed behind because they maintain good relations with the military.

At press time, Khonumthung News could not independently investigate the accusations levelled against the two men.