NANG SENG NOM - A police officer from Burma’s anti-narcotic department was shot dead in Hsipaw town, located in northern Shan state, this Monday (September 28).

According to an account provided by an eyewitness, three gunmen opened fire on the officer at 4 p.m. at the 9.5 checkpoint in town.

A resident, who spoke with SHAN on condition of anonymity, said the officer was part of a anti-narcotic team sent from Lashio to investigate illicit drug trafficking. “Three unknown male assailants drove up to the checkpoint before shooting the officer.”

Police arrested two of the gunmen, but one escaped. A murder investigation has been opened.

“I don’t exactly know the reason why it happened,” said Ko Myo, from Volunteers Without Borders in Hsipaw. “Police officers are investigating the case.”

SHAN called the Hsipaw police station multiple times for comment but no-one responded.

Although gun attacks in Hsipaw Township are frequent, police almost never catch the perpetrators.

The Burma Army and several ethnic armed organizations maintain troops in northern Shan State.