SAC soldiers from Northeastern Command (Lashio) providing security for militia mining firm at Hoya tract. It situates between Tangyarn and Mongyai townships, northern Shan State. Hoya tract is the resource-rich area, the forest and the Namlong river are lifeline for the local people.

“The mining firm belongs to Manpang People Militia. Now, they are using backhoe clearing land. There were about 40 SAC’s soldiers providing security at the place”, said a local source.

According to the local source, the militia group got concession do mining through bribing and pay tribute to the Northeastern commander so that SAC’s soldiers provide security.

For security concerns, villagers do not confront and oppose mining firms in the area but issue the letter.

A source said, “There is no informed consent from the militia group. We oppose the mining firm by sending letter local authority but there is no response and progress”.

Hoya tract comprises over 20 villages. The livelihood of the people have been relied on the forest and Namlong river for their agriculture. The local people concern about the damaged ecosystem will affect their lives in the future.