Armed forces arrested about eleven university students in western Chin State, suspected of participating in protests against the military regime.

Authorities detained the students in Matupi town, located in the township of the same name, from April 7-8. Their computers, phones and some documents were seized.

According to a youth knowledgeable about the situation, armed forces arrested the students after raiding two homes. It is believed the second home was targeted after an informer told authorities where the students were hiding.

Khonumthung News learned that Salai Timothy, Salai Titus, Salai John Ahta and Salai Naung Naung and Tun Lin Oo, chair of a local civil society organization, were picked up on April 7 but couldn’t confirm the names of those arrested the following day.

At least eight people who were released reported police beating them during questioning at the station.

Religious leaders are negotiating with authorities for the release of remaining students detained at Matupi Police Station. The junta’s State Administration Council plans to charge the students.