Outcry mounts over deaths in custody in Myanmar's Rakhine State

Outcry regarding deaths in custody in Rakhine

The deaths of three Rakhine men while being held in military custody and the secret cremation has led to widespread outcry among local communities in the restive state. According to reports, the three men were arrested during a raid conducted in Mrauk-U Township two weeks ago. It was reported that two of the men died from “heart failure”, according to the military-run Myawady. A third man was confirmed killed by local authorities, an AFP report said, but no reason was given. “We were told by police they had already been cremated,” said Maung Nyan Thar, the nephew of one of the deceased, Thein Htun Sein, adding that the families wanted to take “legal action” against anyone found responsible for the deaths. The Myanmar army has been involved in heavy fighting with the Arakan Army in northern Rakhine State in recent months. There are concerns that the killings will further heighten much of the anger many Rakhine people have towards the government and the military.

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