FAMINE CRIMES Military Operations, Forced Migration, and Chronic Hunger in Eastern Burma/Myanmar (2006-2008)
BY KEN MACLEAN
Cover Photo
Woman fleeing attacks in Kyaukkyi Township, Nyaunglebin District (Bago Region) Free Burma Rangers (2007)
Maps
1. Myanmar States and Regions, available at: http://asiapacific.anu.edu.au/mapsonline/base- maps/myanmar-statesregions (accessed 3 March 2018).
2. Township Map, International Human Rights Clinic, Legal Memorandum: War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity in Eastern Myanmar (Cambridge: Harvard University Law School, 2014), p. 11.
3. Government and KNU Administrative Boundaries, available at: http://khrg.org/sites/default/files/maps/Locally_defined_Karen_State_1_North_Final.jpg (accessed 3 March 2018).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 2
This report is published by Ken MacLean © Ken MacLean 2018. All rights reserved. Contents may be reproduced or distributed on a not-for-profit basis for media and related purposes. Commercial reproduction is prohibited.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 3
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments...... 7 Differences in Transliteration ...... 8 Acronyms and Terminology ...... 10 Map 1 Burma/Myanmar ...... 11 Map 2 Township Map ...... 12 Map 3 Government and KNU Administrative Boundaries...... 13 Introduction ...... 14 Famine Crimes ...... 19 Methodology ...... 22 Northern Offensive ...... 26 2004-2005 Forced Migration Summary ...... 29 2006 Forced Migration Summary ...... 34 2007 Forced Migration Summary ...... 40 2008 Forced Migration Summary ...... 46 Conclusion ...... 52 Appendix 1 Tatmadaw Command Structure...... 57 Appendix 2 Destroyed, Relocated, or Abandoned Villages (Thandaung Township) ...... 59 Appendix 3 ERA Reports ...... 60 Appendix A Thandaung and Tantabin Townships (Toungoo District, Karen State) ...... 61 Report Number KORD-2004-02...... 62 Report Number KORD-2004-06...... 70 Report Number CIDKP-2004-02 ...... 78 Report Number CIDKP-2004-09 ...... 83 Report Number CIDKP-2005-01 ...... 88 Report Number CIDKP-2005-08 ...... 93 Report Number KORD-2005-02...... 103 Report Number KORD-2005-05...... 114 Report Number KORD-2006-03...... 123 Report Number KORD-2006-04...... 132 Report Number CIDKP-2006-15 ...... 144 Report Number CIDKP-2006-16 ...... 152 Report Number KORD-2007-05...... 160 Report Number KORD-2007-06...... 169 Report Number CIDKP-2007-19 ...... 176 Report Number KORD-2008-09...... 184 Report Number KORD-2008-13...... 190 Report Number KORD-2008-21...... 201 Report Number CIDKP-2008-11 ...... 207 Report Number CIDKP-2008-12 ...... 217 Report Number CIDKP-2008-16 ...... 227 Report Number Et Tu Hta IDP Camp ...... 239 Appendix B Mone Township (Nyaunglebin District, Bago Region) ...... 247 Report Number CIDKP-2004-05 ...... 248 Report Number CIDKP-2004-07 ...... 252
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 4
Report Number CIDKP-2004-12 ...... 256 Report Number KORD-2005-03...... 259 Report Number KORD-2006-08...... 267 Report Number KORD-2006-16...... 277 Report Number CIDKP-2006-02 ...... 285 Report Number CIDKP-2006-14 ...... 292 Report Number KORD-2007-09...... 297 Report Number KORD-2007-15...... 305 Report Number CIDKP-2007-06 ...... 319 Report Number CIKDP-2007-21 ...... 326 Report Number KORD-2008-10...... 334 Report Number CIDKP-2008-05 ...... 341 Report Number CIDKP-2008-06 ...... 348 Appendix C Kyaukkyi Township (Nyaunglebin District, Bago Region) ...... 355 Report Number KORD-2006-02...... 356 Report Number KORD-2006-06...... 366 Report Number KORD-2006-13...... 377 Report Number CIDKP-2006-06 ...... 385 Report Number CIDKP-2006-13 ...... 391 Report Number KORD-2007-10...... 402 Report Number KORD-2007-11...... 410 Report Number CIDKP-2007-09 ...... 416 Report Number CIDKP-2007-22 ...... 426 Report Number CIDKP-2008-04 ...... 431 Report Number CIDKP-2008-07 ...... 436 Report Number CIDKP-2008-13 ...... 441 Appendix D Hpapun Township (Hpapun District, Kayin State) ...... 449 Report Number KORD-2006-05...... 450 Report Number KORD-2006-10...... 460 Report Number CIDKP-2006-09 ...... 470 Report Number KORD-2007-08...... 481 Report Number KORD-2007-12...... 489 Report Number KORD-2007-13...... 498 Report Number CIDKP-2007-01 ...... 504 Report Number CIDKP-2007-05 ...... 514 Report Number CIDKP-2007-17 ...... 521 Report Number KORD-2008-04...... 530 Report Number KORD-2008-06...... 538 Report Number KORD-2008-11...... 545 Report Number KORD-2008-12...... 553 Report Number CIKDP-2008-09 ...... 560 Appendix E Pasaung and Pruso Townships (Bawlahke and Loikaw Districts, Kayah State) 565 Report Number KSWDC-2004-01 ...... 566 Report Number KSWDC-2004-05 ...... 572 Report Number KSWDC-2005-03 ...... 578 Report Number KSWDC-2005-07 ...... 585
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
Report Number KSWDC-2006-01 ...... 589 Report Number KSWDC-2006-05 ...... 595 Report Number KSWDC-2007-03 ...... 602
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 6
Acknowledgments
First and foremost, I wish to acknowledge the extreme hardships and suffering of the tens of thousands of individuals whose experiences constitute the basis of the report. It is my hope that the report provides a fuller account of what occurred and, should transitional justice initiatives ever become possible, be of practical use in the future. I also thank the brave and dedicated staff at KORD (Karen Office for Relief and Development) and CIDKP (Committee for Internally Displaced Karen People). KORD and CIDKP staff, as part of their efforts to provide emergency humanitarian aid to these IDPs, carefully documented the human rights violations the state’s armed forces (Tatmadaw) committed against civilians in eastern Burma/Myanmar during the military operations known as the “Northern Offensive” (2006-2008). I am also grateful to the Thai Burma Border Consortium (TBBC), now The Border Consortium (TBC), for making it possible to gain access to the KORD and CIDKP documents. I would additionally like to thank the International Human Rights Clinic (IHRC) at Harvard University for allowing me to review 1) the interviews its research team conducted with Karen IDPs who fled from the conflict area to Thailand seeking refuge; and 2) the expert testimony three specialists provided them.
The report is intended to complement and to expand upon the work of the above organizations and individuals. However, the views expressed and conclusions reached are entirely my own, as are any errors, which are fully mine.
On a final note, IDPs developed a wide range of self-protection strategies that are still inadequately understood and, according to some, are undermined by traditional approaches to delivering humanitarian aid in conflict settings.1 The report is not meant to downplay the significance of these strategies or the agency of IDPs more generally. This important topic is simply beyond the scope of this analysis.
1 For academic studies, see, e.g.: Kevin Malseed, “Networks of Noncompliance: Grassroots Resistance and Sovereignty in Militarized Burma,” The Journal of Peasant Studies 36, no. 2 (2009): 365-391; Ashley South, “The Politics of Protection in Burma: Beyond the Humanitarian Mainstream, Critical Asian Studies 44, no. 2 (2012): 175- 204; Stephen Hull, “The ‘Everyday Politics’ of IDP Protection in Karen State,” Journal of Current Southeast Asian Affairs 28, no. 2 (2009): 7-21.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 7
Differences in Transliteration
Significant differences exist across Karen dialects—the two most widely used ones being S’gaw and Pwo. The differences are such that speakers of one dialect cannot always understand the speakers of another. Additionally, the script is a modified version of the Burmese alphabet. Consequently, the transliteration of village and place names varies.2 In January of 2011, fourteen leading Karen civil society organizations (CSOs) reached a consensus on a new standardized transliteration system.3 Previous spellings remain in widespread use, however, and nearly all of the source material included in this report predates the new system. The variant spellings that exist in the sources reflect this history, which is compounded by the fact that fact-finders are often writing in their third or fourth language. Minor inconsistencies should not be used to challenge the credibility of the people who documented the human rights violations featured in the report.
The small size of many of the villages in conflict-affected areas complicates matters further. Historically, agricultural practices (e.g. swidden) and poor soil fertility in upland areas contribute to repeated instances of village “fission” (i.e. out-migration of multiple, but not all of the households) to settle other areas. For the past four decades, military operations have been the driving force behind out-migration in conflict-affected areas. Approximately twenty-five percent of the villages across the country lack official GPS coordinates as a result. A number of Karen CSOs maintain their own geospatial databases, in addition to the Karen National Union (KNU). But most of the databases are relatively new due to the lack of equipment and technical expertise prior to this point. Moreover, these groups generally do not make their geospatial data publicly available due to security concerns. Thus, the exact coordinates of many small villages (especially those abandoned, relocated, or destroyed in remote areas) are not precisely known. Instead, the locations of such villages are approximations based on the testimonies of local people, typically IDPs who fled them. Again, minor discrepancies should be regarded as a result of this history.
Finally, government and KNU administrative boundaries overlap, but they are not the same, which can be a source of confusion for people unfamiliar with these territorial distinctions (see Map 3).4 The table below provides both names for the districts and townships mentioned.5
2 Similarly inconsistencies are found in transliterations of Burmese village and place names into English. See The Permanent Committee on Geographical Names, “An Introduction to the Toponymy of Burma” (2007), available at http://pcgn.org.uk/Burma%200907.pdf (accessed 15 July 2014). 3 Copy on file with author. 4 Compare MIMU, “South East States/Regions and Townships” (2013), available at http://www.themimu.info/search/node/south%20east%20region%20and%20township (accessed 22 December 2017) with KHRG, “Locally Defined Northern and Central Karen Districts (2012), available at http://khrg.org/sites/default/files/maps/Locally_defined_Karen_State_1_North_Final.jpg (accessed 22 December 2017). 5 States and Divisions are divided into districts. These districts consist of townships. Village tracts, the smallest administrative unit in rural areas, are groups of adjacent villages that range anywhere between 5 and 25 in number.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 8
Government and Locally Karen-Defined District and Township Names
District District Township Township (Burmese) (Karen) (Burmese) (Karen) Toungoo Taw Oo Thandaung Daw Pa Kho Toungoo Taw Oo Tantabin Taw Ta Tu Nyaunglebin Ker Lwee Htu Mone Mu Nyaunglebin Ker Lwee Htu Kyaukkyi Ler Doh Nyaunglebin Ker Lwee Htu Shwegyin Hsaw Htee Hpapun Mu Traw Hpapun Lu Thaw
Local informants use KNU-designations when providing testimony. The report follows this practice when referring to events at the village tract and village levels.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 9
Acronyms and Terminology
CIDKP Committee for Internally Displaced Karen People (Humanitarian organization) DKBA Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (NSAG) FBR Free Burma Rangers (Humanitarian organization) fonds An aggregation of documents originating from the same source KHRG Karen Human Rights Group KNLA Karen National Liberation Army (Military wing of the KNU) KNPLF Karenni National Peoples’ Liberation Front (NSAG) KNPP Karenni National Progress Party (NSAG) KNSO Karenni National Solidarity Organization (NSAG) KNU Karen National Union (Non-state political organization) KORD Karen Organization for Relief and Development (Humanitarian organization) KSWDC Karenni Social Welfare and Development Center (Humanitarian organization) Kyat Myanmar currency IHRC International Human Rights Clinic at Harvard University Law School NSAG Non-State Armed Group SPDC State Peace and Development Council (Military junta from 1988 to 2011) Tatmadaw Myanmar State Armed Forces TBBC Thai Burma Border Consortium (Humanitarian organization)
Measurements
Basket 2 tins Tin Standardized unit of volume, approximately 10.5 kg (paddy) or 16 kg (milled rice) viss 1.6 kg
Military Terms
Baw Bi Doh “Short Pants” (Guerrilla Retaliation Units) BC Battalion commander Camp Basic military unit (10-11 soldiers) Company 100 soldiers (at full strength) Column Combination of companies IB Infantry Battalion LIB Light Infantry Battalion LID Light Infantry Division (10 battalions for combat operations) MOC Military Operations Command NSAG Non-State Armed Group ROC Regional Operations Command SOC Strategic Operations Command (3-4 battalions for defensive operations) TOC Tactical Operations Command (3 battalions for combat operations)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 10
Map 1 Burma/Myanmar
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 11
Map 2 Township Map
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 12
Map 3 Government and KNU Administrative Boundaries
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 13
Introduction
“They stayed quite close to the village, and they came back and told us the military came to camp in our village. I did not hear how many soldiers were in the village. On November 28, 2005 we saw the smoke. We slept on the hill and then in the morning we saw from this place the smoke. It was in the morning about 7.30 a.m. The smoke we saw was at first blue and black in color, later on we saw the red colored smoke. It was in the distance so we did not see the fire but we saw the smoke. I stood together with my wife and children. We stood up and watched for just a moment about 2-3 minutes. I estimate that the fire lasted about two hours - this is my guess because there were many houses in the village. The villagers who were watching also came back and told us that the village had been burned down.”6
Tatmadaw battalions carried out dry-season offensives in eastern Burma/Myanmar for decades. The offensives primarily targeted civilian populations, displacing tens of thousands of people each time they occurred. The goal: to cut the ability of the Karen National Union (KNU) to obtain the food, money, intelligence, and recruits needed to maintain a degree of autonomy in a context where successive military regimes sought to destroy it. 7 The Northern Offensive, which lasted approximately two years (2006-2008), was the biggest one to date. The military operations connected with it provide the conflict setting for this report.
The Northern Offensive, according to many observers, began with an attack on Hee Daw Kaw, a remote village in the rugged mountains of Thandaung Township, Toungoo District.8 Fortunately, the residents, as the above quote indicates, had some advanced notice of the troop movements before the soldiers fired mortars and automatic weapons into the village. Approximately three hundred people fled with limited belongings and about two weeks worth of food, to nearby hiding sites in the forest. Nearly six hundred more people from surrounding villages fled as well. 9 Columns 1 and 2 of IB-73, under Southern Regional Command, camped in Hee Daw Kaw for two days before burning twenty-five to thirty homes to the ground. The soldiers also killed all the animals, destroyed food supplies and whatever personal property remained, then buried anti- personnel landmines before departing to prevent the IDPs from returning.10
Systematic and widespread attacks on civilians did not begin in earnest, however, until late January and early February following the arrival of at least seven combat divisions (See Appendix 1 for
6 Clinic Database, Interview no. 124. See also interview nos. 87 and 128. Other local sources identified IB-75 as participating in the attack. See KORD-2006-03. 7 Ashley South, Burma’s Longest War: Anatomy of the Karen Conflict (Amsterdam: Transnational Institute, 2011). 8 Tatmadaw units began to impose severe travel restrictions in Toungoo and Nyaunglebin Districts to isolate KNU/KNLA areas in early October of 2005 as part of preparations for the Offensive. “KNU Says Junta Carries Out All Cuts Policy in Karen Areas,” BBC Burmese Service (2 October 2005). See also, “Burmese Troops Shell and Burn Five Villages,” Irrawaddy, 30 November 2005. 9 For further details, see KHRG, “Recent Attacks on Villages in Southeastern Toungoo District Send Thousands Fleeing into the Forests and to Thailand” (16 March 2006), available at http://khrg.org/2006/03/khrg06b3/recent- attacks-villages-southeastern-toungoo-district-send-thousands-fleeing (accessed 11 January 2018). 10 FBR Report: Burma Army Attack in Karen State (28 November 2005), available at http://www.freeburmarangers.org/2005/11/28/900-idps-as-villagers-flee-burma-army-attacks/ (accessed 1 December 2017).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 14
details on the Tatmadaw Command Structure).11 More than fifty battalions then commenced large- scale clearance operations targeting rural populations in townships across northern Kayin State, eastern Bago Region, and southwestern Kayah State.12 Military operations damaged and destroyed homes and means of livelihood of civilians in more than 100 villages in Thandaung Township alone, several of them on more than one occasion, over the next two years (Appendix 2).13 The Offensive left more than 160,000 people in urgent need of food aid according documentation two cross-border humanitarian organizations—the Karen Organization for Relief and Development (KORD) and the Committee for Internally Displaced Karen People (CIDKP)—gathered as part of their relief missions during the Offensive. KORD, formed in 1993 following a major military offensive, is a fully independent CSO. CIDKP, created in 1998 after another major military offensive, is the humanitarian wing of the KNU.14 However, the staff of CIDKP, although part of the KNU’s administrative status, operates according to international humanitarian principles. More than two decades of foreign donor support, including grants from Western governments, for cross- border humanitarian assistance to IDPs demonstrate a high degree of confidence in the documentation practices of both organizations and their professionalism more generally.
The report relies on KORD and CIDKP field data. But it also expands upon an earlier report. The International Human Rights Clinic (IHRC) at Harvard University Law School published an influential legal memorandum in 2014. The field-based research, upon which the memorandum was based, sought to determine, first, whether the abuses committed during the Northern Offensive (2006-2008) violated international criminal law and, second, whether sufficient evidence existed to assert that specific Tatmadaw (i.e. Myanmar state armed forces) officers could be charged with these crimes.15 IHRC focused its investigation on two military units – Southern Regional Military Command and Light Infantry Division 66 (LID-66) – in Thandaung Township.16 The 150 in-depth interviews generated more than 1,000 pages of witness statements. The content of which led IHRC to assert that that three commanding officers could be charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes, as defined in Articles of 7 and 8, respectively, of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC). 17 The officers, the Clinic further concluded, could be held legally responsible for these crimes under two theories of liability: individual criminal liability under Article 25 and command responsibility under Article 28. In the Clinic’s view, the evidence already
11 The divisions, each of which consists of ten battalions, augmented the 22 garrison battalions already quartered there. Local reports indicate that many of the battalions were severely undermanned; nevertheless, best estimates place the total number of troops in or near KNLA-controlled areas at between 10,000-15,000 at the start of the Northern Offensive. Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 3, para. 36. 12 Such operations were not limited to these three areas. Tatmadaw battalions carried out similar ones elsewhere in northeastern and southeastern Burma/Myanmar (Shan State, Mon State, and Tenasserim Division, now known as the Tanintharyi Region), but on a smaller scale. 13 Thai Burma Border Consortium (TBBC), Internal Displacement Survey (Bangkok: TBBC, 2007), pp. 68-70; TBBC, Internal Displacement and International Law (Bangkok: TBBC, 2008), pp. 55-57. The lists also include the names of villages damaged, destroyed, or relocated in the other affected townships. Villages in these areas are often referred to as “hiding (ywa bone) villages,” as their inhabitants flee whenever Tatmadaw troops approach. 14 For background, see Burma Ethnic Research Group, Forgotten Victims of a Hidden War: Internally Displaced Karen in Burma (Chiang Mai: BERG and Friedrich Naumann Foundation, 1998). 15 IHRC, Legal Memorandum: War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity in Eastern Myanmar (Cambridge: Harvard Law School, 2014a). 16 Light Infantry Divisions normally operate independently. But during the Northern Offensive, LID-66 fell under the de facto control of the Southern Regional Command. 17 ICC (2011), pp. 5-42; IHRC (2014a), pp.1-2, 7. IHRC had equally strong evidence on several lower-ranking officers but chose not to focus on them.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 15
gathered is “sufficient to satisfy the standard required for the issuance of an arrest warrant by the ICC as set forth in Article 58 of the Rome Statute.”18 The individuals are:
Major General Ko Ko, the commander of Southern Regional Command during the Offensive. He was promoted afterwards to Myanmar’s Home Affairs Minister;
Brigadier General Khin Zaw Oo, the commander of LID-66 during the offensive until May 2006. He was promoted afterwards to Myanmar Army Bureau of Special Operations (BSO) 4; and
Brigadier General Maung Maung Aye, the commander of LID-66 during the Offensive after May 2006.
The data corroborate IHRC’s findings, which documented nine underlying crimes: 1) attacking civilians; 2) displacing civilians and forcible transfer; 3) destroying or seizing the adversary’s property; 4) pillage; 5) murder and execution without due process; 6) enslavement; 7) torture and other inhumane acts; 8) rape; and 9) persecution.19 KORD and CIDKP field data, reproduced in Appendix 3, provide further evidence of these crimes.20
Particularly notable is the information on indiscriminant attacks on and the willful killings of civilians by Tatmadaw units, the subject of a second policy memorandum by IHRC.21 International humanitarian law requires “Parties to the conflict shall at all times distinguish between the civilian population and combatants… and accordingly shall direct their operations only against military objects.”22 Violations of the principle of distinction, which applies to non-international as well as international conflicts, constitute war crimes.23
KORD and CIDKP data again supports IHRC’s conclusion that indiscriminant attacks reflect long- standing operational policy, which dictates how (non-) commissioned officers command soldiers under their tactical control.24 Civilians in “black areas,” i.e. areas where government control is “weak or non-existent,” are reportedly subject to being shot-on-sight, for example. Based on IHRC
18 IHRC (2014a), pp. 3, 7-8. The question of guilt, of course, would be determined by the court. 19 IHRC (2014a), pp. 47-57. 20 IHRC interview also identified IB-48, under the command Zaw Tun, as being particularly brutal (2014a), pp. 65- 67. ERA requests also documented the involvement of IB-48 in numerous attacks on civilians, including willful killings, during 2004 and 2005 (KORD-2005-02, KORD-2005-5, CIDKP-2004-02, CIDKP-2004-09, and CIDKP- 2005-08). IB-48 appears to have ceased operations after 2005 according to KORD and CIDKP data. 21 IHRC, Policy Memorandum: Preventing Indiscriminate Attacks and Wilful Killings of Civilians by the Myanmar Military (Cambridge: IHRC, 2014b). 22 Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and Relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts (AP I), adopted 8 June 1977 and entered into force 7 December 1998. See, in particular, Article 51(4)(a). 23 Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and Relating to the Protection of Victims of Non-International Conflicts (AP II), adopted 8 June 1977 and entered into force 7 December 1998. The Burma/Myanmar government did not sign this protocol. Many of the provisions are now part of customary international law and thus apply, even without the government’s ratification. 24 For further discussion, see Section III, “Causes of Attacks on Civilians at Three Levels of Military Authority” (IHRC 2014b), pp. 26-37.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 16
interviews, Tatmadaw units considered nearly all of Thandaung Township to be a “black area” during the Northern Offensive.25
Three-quarters of the documents examined for this report (seventy fonds total 26 ) include allegations of indiscriminate attacks, with automatic weapons and mortars being the most commonly used weapons. Furthermore, the data indicate that such attacks, which often result in injury or death, are not limited to the criminal actions of battalion troops operating in Thandaung Township under LID-66 or Southern Regional Command orders. These indiscriminant attacks occurred on a widespread basis in Tantabin, Mone, Kyaukkyi, Shwegyin, Hpapun, Pasaung, and Pruso Townships.27
The report, however, focuses on an important, but under-examined grave breach of the Geneva Conventions—namely, “the extensive destruction or appropriation of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly.”28
According to one military expert, Tatamdaw units carry out counter-insurgency operations in four phases: “(1) An ‘assault’ that drive out insurgents and inhabitants; (2) ‘clearing,’ which involves the destruction of homes, fields, and property; (3) ‘gleaning’ of information, including capturing villagers; and (4) ‘mining,’ whereby landmines are placed to make areas uninhabitable.”29 Military columns commonly “move in tandem along parallel courses to drive civilian populations from a given area” as well.30
The goal is to depopulate contested areas. Thus, the temporal patterns of these operations typically follow the agricultural cycle. Farmers plant upland paddy fields between May and June, and harvest their crops between October and November.31 Tatmadaw units routinely target villages during these critical periods, and the destruction of food supplies and seeds have a devastating impact of the ability of farmers to cultivate enough food to survive from season to season. The
25 IHRC (2014a), pp. 25-29. 26 A fonds is an archival term for the aggregation of documents originating from the same source. KORD and CIDKP fonds typically contain an “Emergency Ration Assistance” (ERA) request, which functions as a situation analysis and IDP needs assessment; an ERA Distribution Summary, which provides an updated situation analysis and details on aid delivery, and, in some cases, and ERA Impact Assessment. 27 Thandaung Township (KORD-2006-03, KORD-2006-04, CIDKP-2006-15, CIDKP-2006-16, KORD-2007-05, CIDKP-2008-11, CIDKP-2008-12); Mone Township (KORD-2006-08, KORD-2006-16, CIDKP-2006-02, KORD- 2007-09, KORD-2007-15, CIDKP-2007-06, CIDKP-2007-21, KORD-2008-10, CIDKP-200806); Kyaukkyi Township (KORD-2006-02, KORD-2006-06, CIDKP-2006-06, CIDKP-2006-13, KORD-2007-09, KORD-2007-11, CIDKP-2007-09, CIDKP-2007-22, CIDKP-2008-04, CIDKP-2008-13); Hpapun Township (KORD-2006-05, KORD-2006-11, CIDKP-2006-09, KORD-2007-08, KORD-2007-12, CIDKP-2007-01, CIDKP-2007-05, CIDKP- 2007-17, KORD-2008-04, KORD-2008-06, KORD-2008-11, CIKDP-2008-09); Pasaung and Pruso Townships (KSWDC-2006-01, KSWDC-2006-05, KSWDC-2007-04); and Ei Htu Hta IDP Camp. 28 Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (1998), Article 8 (2)(a)(iv), available at http://legal.un.org/icc/statute/99_corr/cstatute.htm (accessed 8 January 2018); Convention (IV) relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War 12 August 1949, Article 147,” International Committee of the Red Cross International Humanitarian Law Database,” available at https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/ihl/WebART/380- 600169 (accessed 8 January 2018). 29 Clinic Expert Declaration, Expert 1, cited in IHRC (2014a), p. 25. For additional details, see Free Burma Rangers (FBR), A Campaign of Brutality (Chiang Mai, Thailand: FBR, 2008), p. 17. 30 FBR (2008), p. 17. 31 Interview Saw Barnabas, Karen Environmental and Social Action Network (3 June 2003).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 17
destruction of cash crops, especially cardamom, further exacerbates the situation because villagers often sell them to purchase rice when stores run low.32
One hundred percent of the KORD and CIDKP fonds provide highly detailed accounts of how Tatmadaw units destroy, remove, or otherwise render useless objects indispensable to survival— namely, agricultural areas, crops, food stuffs, and livestock.33 The primary purpose: to deprive the KNU of food, funds, intelligence, and popular support, a strategy known as the “Four Cuts” (Pya Ley Pya).34 The deliberate starvation of civilians as part of the Four Cuts qualifies as a war crime and a crime against humanity under the Rome Statute.
32 According to local producers, between 65-75% of all farmers in Thandaung Township cultivate cardamom. China is the primary market for its seeds. Heavy government and KNU taxation, as well as landmine contamination, constrain larger-scale production. PeaceNexus Foundation, An Assessment of Business Opportunities in the Kayin State (Prangins, Switzerland: PNF, 2013), pp. 15, 24. In terms of the annual cycle, villagers harvest and sell betel leaf (January-May), durian (March-June), cardamom (August-September), dog fruit (August-September), and then betel nut (October-December). Caring for the crops between harvests requires a significant time and labor commitment year-round. Travel restrictions and clearing operations often make doing so extremely difficult to impossible. 33 The practice violates Article 14 of Protocol II, which prohibits the starvation of civilians. See also, ICRC, “Customary International Humanitarian Law,” Rule 54, available at https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/customary- ihl/eng/docs/v1_rul_rule54 (accessed 8 January 2018). 34 IHRC (2014a), p. 25; Maung Aung Myoe, “The Counter-Insurgency in Myanmar: The Governments Response to the Burma Communist Party,” PhD Dissertation, Australian National University, 1999, pp. 134-138. Tatmadaw units have employed the tactics since the 1960s, and they remain in use today in conflict-affected areas, e.g. Kachin State and northern Shan State.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 18
Famine Crimes
The right to food in situations of armed conflict has its origins in elements of humanitarian law, human rights law, and international criminal law.35 However, efforts to hold individual state actors responsible for using food as a weapon of war remain extremely difficult in large part because the concept of “famine crimes” is not yet codified into a single, comprehensive legal framework.36 Several factors contribute to this situation. Famine, as a concept, has no universally agreed upon definition, for example. Some experts regard famine as an “event,” whereas others view it as a “process.” Consequently, different methodologies using different indicators exist, and they measure different aspects of a food security crisis, predominantly in quantitative terms.37 But the number of deaths is not a definitive indicator of famine, though these figures are often used as a proxy for it. In reality, famines vary in intensity and magnitude, and they have complex and multi- faceted “macroeconomic, socio-cultural, psychological, and other consequences” on affected populations.38 The report adopts this more expansive understanding as a rejoinder to the biggest obstacle to prosecuting famine crimes. The obstacle requires a substantive shift in thinking—from a long-standing preoccupation with questions regarding the causes of and responses to instances of extreme man-made food insecurity to ones that ask whose actions cause or contribute to famine and what can be done to hold them legally accountable?39
Currently, the deliberate starvation of civilians is criminalized under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC)—directly, in the case of war crimes, and indirectly, in the case of crimes against humanity and genocide.40 The crimes under the Rome Statute require both the requisite prohibited act (actus rea) and intent (mens rea).41 The latter legal concept, which must be present for prosecuting alleged perpetrators, requires either proof of intent to commit a crime
35 Jelena Pejic, “The Right to Food in Situations of Armed Conflict: The Legal Framework,” IRRC 83, no. 844 (2001): 1097-1109; Diane Kearney, “Food Deprivations as Crimes Against Humanity,” International Law and Politics 46 (2013): 253-289. 36 Several cases, one in Cambodia and another in Rwanda, have resulted in convictions of defendants charged with withholding food from imprisoned populations. See, e.g., Co-Prosecutor v. Kaing Guek Eav alias Duch, Case No. 001/18-07-2007/ECCC/TC, Judgment (26 July 2010) and Prosecutor v. Kayishema & Ruzindana, Case No. ICTR- 95-1-T, Judgment (21 May 1999). 37 Stephen Devereux, Theories of Famine (London: Harvester Wheatsheaf, 1993). 38 Paul Howe and Stephen Devereux, “Famine Intensity and Magnitude Scales: A Proposal for an Instrumental Definition of Famine,” Disasters 28, no. 4 (2004), p. 362. 39 For background, see, e.g.: Alex de Waal, Famine Crimes: Politics and the Disaster Relief Industry in Africa (Bloomington: University of Indiana Press, 1997), p. 152; Amartya Sen, “Famines and Other Crimes,” in Development as Freedom (London: Anchor Books, 1999); Jenny Edkins, Whose Hunger? Concepts of Famine, Practices of Aid (New York: University of Minnesota Press, 2002); Jenny Edkins, “The Criminalization of Mass Starvations: From Natural Disaster to Crime Against Humanity.” In The New Famines: Why Famines Persist in an Era of Globalization, ed. Stephen Devereux (London: Routledge, 2007), p. 52. 40 Article 8 (2)(b)(xxv) of the Rome Statute specifically lists starvation as a war crime. Article 7 (1)(k) defines “Other inhumane acts of a similar character intentionally causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or to mental or physical health,” as a crime against humanity. This report argues that famine crimes, although not an enumerated act itself, is a means of committing one. The charge of genocide is not applicable in the case under discussion (see below). Finally, a consensus on the definition of crimes of aggression, which also falls under the jurisdiction of the ICC, was not reached until 2017. The ICC has no authority to investigate alleged crimes of aggression, which could include famine crimes as an element, prior to this date. 41 International Criminal Court, “The Elements of Crimes” (The Hague: ICC, 2011), available at https://www.icc-cpi.int/resourcelibrary/official-journal/elements-of-crimes.aspx (accessed 2 December 2017).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 19
or knowledge that one’s (lack of) action would permit a crime to be committed. Proving mens rea is very challenging due “to the evidentiary requirements and the ability of defendants to assert plausible intervening causes.” Frequently, this is the case where contributory factors, such as natural disasters (droughts and flood), as well as logistical challenges (poor roads and insufficient transport vehicles), are present.42
Legal scholar David Marcus has proposed two changes to address the evidentiary problem with regard to famine crimes. The first proposal involves elevating famine crimes to a stand-alone top- level offense that falls under the ICC’s jurisdiction.43 The second proposal entails lowering the mens rea requirement solely for famine-related prohibited acts.44 The concept of “faminogenesis,” he argues, offers the means to achieve this end.
State conduct that contributes to the creation and/or the perpetuation of famine is “faminogenic,” according to Marcus. 45 He divides faminogenic conduct into four categories, which he differentiates in terms of degrees of intent. Fourth-degree and third-degree faminogenic conduct do not meet the mens rea requirement, however, as poor governance characterizes the former and indifference to starvation defines the latter. Both types of (in-) action are reprehensible, but not criminal at the international level due to the absence of demonstrable intent. By contrast second- degree and first-degree faminogenic conduct do satisfy the mens rea requirement and may qualify, if other conditions are also met, as a mass atrocity crime under the 1998 Rome Statute. “Governments [that] implement policies that themselves engender famine, then recklessly continue to pursue these policies, despite knowing that they are causing mass starvation,” are guilty of second-degree faminogenic crime Marcus states.46 Whereas, first-degree faminogenic conduct, he continues, displays clear intent to “deliberately use hunger as a tool of extermination to annihilate troublesome populations.”47
42 Renee Dopplick, “Famine and International Criminal Law Under the Rome Statute,” Inside Justice (27 April 2009), available at http://www.insidejustice.com/intl/2009/04/27/famine_rome_statute/ (accessed 2 December 2017). 43 The Preparatory Commission for the ICC included draft text proposing that it would have jurisdiction over acts that affect the “conditions of life [which] may include, but is not necessarily restricted to, deliberate deprivation of resource indispensible for survival, such as food.” Report of the Preparatory Commission for the International Criminal Court, Addendum, Part II, Finalized Draft Text of the Elements of Crimes, UN Doc. PCNICC/2000/1/Add.2, Art.6(c) n.4, available at http://www.icls.de/dokumente/icc_elements_crime.pdf (accessed 2 December 2017). 44 For an assessment of the pros and cons of both proposals, see Dopplick (2009). She points out that the wording of Article 30 is such that it is unclear whether “recklessness,” the key element of second-degree faminogenic conduct, satisfies the “intent and knowledge” requirement set out in the Rome Statute. 45 David Marcus, “Famine Crimes in International Law,” The American Journal of International Law 97, no. 2 (2003), p. 245, fn. 1. 46 Marcus (2003), p. 247. The difference between third- and second-degree faminogenic conduct appears at first glace to be slight but is in actually significant. Both forms of conduct involve indifference. However, the former concerns instances in which the government fails to respond to non-anthropogenic famine, such as droughts and floods. The latter concerns instances in which the government knowingly continues to implement a policy or policies that cause the famine. 47 Ibid.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 20
The counter-insurgency tactics Tatmadaw soldiers historically utilized in eastern Burma/Myanmar do not meet the threshold of first-degree faminogenic conduct, which is genocidal in intent.48 Instead, the Tatmadaw’s deliberate destruction and confiscation of civilian food supplies and objects is second-degree in nature and, as the prima facie evidence indicates, is a mass atrocity crime.49 As the conduct, which inflicts “great suffering or serious injury to body or to mental or physical health by means of an inhumane act,” is one of the prohibited acts.50
A crime against humanity differs from an ordinary crime in that it must have been committed in the context of a widespread or systematic attack against any civilian population, and was knowingly carried out “pursuant to or in furtherance of State or organizational policy,” the mens rea requirement. 51 The report details these tactics, the strategic goal of which was to starve civilians out of the mountains, denying Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs) the ability to obtain material support (e.g. food, money, information, and recruits) from them in the process.
The report focuses on famine crimes in Thandaung Township and neighboring Tantatbin Township, which is also part of Toungoo District. The report also makes reference to similar patterns in three neighboring districts: Nyaunglebin District (eastern Bago Region), Hpapun District (northern Kayin State), and Bawlakhe District (southwestern Kayah State). The details pertaining to the affected townships in these districts appear in Appendix 3. The field data contained therein provide further documentation of the widespread and systematic nature of the famine crimes Tatmadaw units committed in eastern Burma/Myanmar prior to and during the Northern Offensive (2006-2008).
48 Article 6, “For the purposes of this Statute, ‘genocide’ means any of the following acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group…” ICC (2011), p. 3 49 Such objects include: “foodstuffs, agricultural areas for the production of foodstuffs, crops, livestock, drinking water installations, and supplies and irrigation works.” Article 54 of Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts (Protocol 1), 8 June 1977, available at https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/applic/ihl/ihl.nsf/INTRO/470 (accessed 2 December 2017). Additionally, “destroying or seizing the property of an adversary unless such destruction or seizure be imperatively demanded by the necessities of the conflict” constitutes a war crime in non-international armed conflicts. See Article 8(2)(e)(xii), ICC (2011), p. 41. 50 Article 7 (1) (k) Crime against humanity of other inhuman acts, ICC (2011), p. 12. 51 Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 3, para. 57. Quoted in IHRC (2014a), p. 6.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 21
Methodology
The IHRC report draws from several sources. First, the research team, with the assistance of local partners, conducted interviews with more than 160 people who fled Thandaung Township during the Northern Offensive and could report on events that primarily occurred between January 2005 and December 2006. Informants included villagers, village leaders, former porters, and former soldiers. The transcripts generated more than 1,000 pages of witness statements, which prosecutors could use as a stating point for their own research. Second, the report includes information from expert declarations conducted with four individuals with extensive knowledge of the key issues examined: Tatmadaw counter-insurgency strategy and tactics, the humanitarian impacts of the state-sponsored violence on civilian populations in the affected area, and international criminal law. Third, the Clinic also referenced reports prepared by internationally known and respected third-party local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), such as Free Burma Rangers (FBR) and the Karen Human Rights Group (KHRG). Both NGOs conducted human rights fact-finding work in some of the affected areas during the Northern Offensive.52
This report supplements the one IHRC prepared both spatially and temporally. It does so by covering a much large geographic area than Thandaung Township, though I feature events in it, and a somewhat longer period of time (2004-2008). The additional details indicate that the patterns the IHRC report documented were not isolated. Rather, the patterns were widespread and systematic, and evinced clear evidence of command responsibility, which is also critical for proving individual criminal liability.53
IDP profiles, generated by KORD and CIDKP, provide the core data for this report. IDP profiles rely upon enumerative techniques. Quantitative methods are geared towards the rapid collection of demographic information, the statistical accuracy of which varies depending of the type utilized, such as: 1) aerial or satellite imagery for areal surveys, 2) flow monitoring (counting the number of people passing a fixed point when IDPs are on the move), 3) dwelling counts, and 4) headcounts. These methods are ideal when speed is critical and/or access to displaced populations is difficult or impossible due to natural disasters, government restrictions, armed conflict, and so on. The results provide the core data for the profile, which minimally consists of the number of displaced persons, often disaggregated by age and sex, as well as the geographic location(s) of the IDPs. Qualitative methods utilize focus group discussions and key informant interviews with which they generate supplementary data, most often: cause(s) of displacement, patterns of displacement, protection concerns, humanitarian needs, and potential solutions.
The data in Appendix 3 contain information derived from both quantitative and qualitative methods. The data are redacted to include only relevant information on military activities and humanitarian needs. Administrative and financial details are removed. The same is true of the supporting information the profiles contain: township maps (indicating the location of the affected villages), letters of recommendations from local administrative officials, and photographs. The excerpts are lightly edited for clarity.
52 IHRC (2014a), pp. 15-20. 53Appendix 3 contains the names of alleged perpetrators to demonstrate these command-and-control relationships. The officers identified should be regarded as innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 22
The profiles, which are archived as fonds, consist of three primary parts. First, the emergency ration assistance (ERA) request, normally prepared within sixty days of the displacement. Information provided to KORD and CIKDP teams by district- and township-level officials, as well as village heads and IDPs, serves as the basis for the ERA requests. Second, the ERA distribution summary, usually submitted three-four months after the request. The summary also includes further details on military operations and abuses that occurred after the submission of the ERA request. Third, an ERA impact assessment, when included, is typically submitted seven-nine months after the distribution of cash aid. Impact assessments were rare prior to 2008, when they became a standard part of the ERA reporting.
Villagers typically flee either in response to a direct attack or ones nearby.54 They are rarely able to bring much with them in terms of personal items (e.g. clothing, blankets, and mosquito nets) or food. Tatmadaw units, as the ERA documents indicate, destroyed and/or confiscated whatever was left behind. Villagers maintained several secret food caches, especially bags of rice wrapped in plastic and buried underground, in the forest for this reason.55 The amounts stockpiled were not sufficient for any length of time, however. IDPs reported that they commonly ate thin rice porridge mixed with bamboo shoots, wild yams and/or roots for weeks or months on end, which contributed to increased morbidity and mortality from preventable diseases, especially diarrhea and malaria, the result of sleeping in the forest without mosquito nets.
ERA funds provide IDPs with some emergency financial support, which enabled them to make decisions about their livelihood options. Cash assistance was calculated by multiplying the number of IDPs times the amount needed to provide each of them with a three-month supply of food, the cost of which was calculated using the local price of a big tin—a standardized unit of volume weighing approximately 10.5 kg., if paddy, and 16 kg., if milled rice. 56 (The report uses 1 tin/person/month for calculations.) Cash, in sharp contrast to heavy sacks of rice, was much easier to transport across rugged terrain into conflict-affected areas. Additionally, providing IDPs with funds to purchase rice and other urgently needed necessities locally prevented inflationary pressures, which would otherwise have reduced food security in the surrounding region by raising prices.57
The cash assistance totals in paddy/rice kilogram equivalents thus functioned as a proxy for the impact of the military operations on food security. The totals are somewhat misleading, however, as they do not take into account future losses. Existing fields may become permanently unusable because of landmine contamination and/or the construction of new Tatmadaw camps nearby, which posed an ongoing security threats to those civilians. Commercially valuable spices (e.g. cardamom), the most important cash crop in upland areas, and trees (e.g. areca palms), also
54 Other villagers are the primary source of information about nearby military patrols and attacks according to one survey: 64% of the time in IDP hiding areas. TBBC (2005), p. 53. 55 According to the same survey, 60% of the villagers living in IDP hiding areas cache food supplies or crops in case they need to flee on short notice. Ibid., p. 54. 56 Paddy, because it retains its protective hull, is less likely to spoil or rot when it becomes damp as a result of humidity or rain. However, it can be difficult to remove the hull (typically by pounding) when in hiding. 57 KORD and CIDKP, like other local cross-border humanitarian organizations, convert Thai baht into Burmese kyat using money-changers based on the border. The market rate during 2006 fluctuated around 1,300 kyat per 1 US dollar (author’s field notes).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 23
required years of cultivation before they produced seedpods and betel nuts, respectively. (The former takes 3-4 years, while the latter requires 4-5 years.). Nevertheless, tracking the cash totals provides a useful, if imperfect, measurement of severity and magnitude of the famine crimes that occurred.
The statistics that follow offer additional baseline data on living conditions in the conflict-affected townships prior to the Northern Offensive. The findings illustrate how precarious food security already was at the time (2004-2005).
The Back Pack Health Worker Team (BPHWT), a multi-ethnic cross-border humanitarian organization made up of mobile medics, conducted a rapid health assessment survey in 2004. The researchers collected basic mortality and morbidity data from two thousand households (approximately 140,000 people) in eight zones in southeastern Burma/Myanmar, many of them within the boundaries of KNU-delineated Karen State. 91.7% of the households responded, nearly one-quarter of them in areas the Tatmadaw targeted during the Northern Offensive.58 Notably, 71.6% of the people surveyed in Toungoo District, where Thandaung and Tantabin Townships are located, reported the destruction and/or looting of their food supplies by Tatmadaw units.59 45.4% of them stated that they abandoned their homes at least once over the previous year because of military operations.60 Unsurprisingly, BPHWT found that health status of people in the zones surveyed – using standard indicators such as child malnutrition frequencies, protein deficiencies, mortality rates, and the prevalence of preventable diseases – were broadly consistent with those documented in war-torn Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo.61
The Thai Burma Border Consortium (TBBC), an international humanitarian organization, also conducted a large-scale, multi-cluster survey during 2004 (6,070 people in 1,071 households in sixty areas across six states and divisions (now known as regions). 62 The households were variously located in relocation sites, mixed administration areas, IDP hiding areas, and ethnic ceasefire areas. TBBC’s cross-border CSO partners carried out the data collection, and they documented the prevalence of the following patterns over the past year among those surveyed:
Protection Issues
57% of households forced to provide labor for authorities; 52% of households ordered to pay arbitrary taxes and/or other forms of extortion; 24% of households with crops or food stocks damaged and/or destroyed by authorities; 17% of households with a member arbitrarily detained without cause; 12% of households forcibly evicted; and 1.2% of population wounded or killed by military assault in past two years.63
Coping Strategies
58 Back Pack Health Worker Team [BPHWT], Chronic Emergency: Health and Human Rights in Eastern Burma (Chiang Mai, Thailand: BPHWT, 2006), p. 29. 59 Ibid., p. 43. 60 Ibid., p. 46. 61 Ibid., p. 65. 62 TBBC, Internal Displacement and Vulnerability in Eastern Burma (Bangkok: TBBC, 2004), p. 1. 63 Ibid., p. 5.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 24
71% of households accessing loans to survive disruptions to livelihoods; 30% of households accessing aid to survive disruptions to livelihoods; 17% of households migrating for work to survive disruptions to livelihoods; and 22% of households selling assets to survive disruptions to livelihoods.64
All of the protection threats have a direct impact on the food security of households in eastern Burma/Myanmar, as the statistics on civilian coping strategies makes clear. These patterns also inform two further troubling findings. The survey found that only 23% of all households had access to two meals/day for every month in the past year, and the chronic shortages contributed to a 16% rate of acute malnutrition (moderate to severe wasting) in children under the ages of five.65
TBBC conducted another multi-cluster survey in 2005, covering 1,044 households residing in Tatmadaw relocation sites, mixed administration areas, IDP hiding areas, and ethnic ceasefire areas.66 TBBC published the results in October, shortly before the Northern Offensive began. Forced labor as well as travel restrictions to fields and markets, 51% and 30% respectively, posed significant challenges to food security for civilians in mixed administration (also known as brown) areas. 16% of them reported the destruction or confiscation of food by authorities as a problem. Travel restrictions also affected 19% of IDPs in hiding areas. But the destruction or confiscation of food, at 30%, was by far the single largest threat to their livelihoods in the past year.67
64 Ibid., p. 5. 65 Ibid. p. 6. 66 TBBC, Internal Displacement and Protection in Eastern Burma (Bangkok: TBBC, 2005), pp. 10-12. 67 Ibid., p. 49.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 25
Northern Offensive
The Northern Offensive affected a wide-swathe of KNU-delineated Karen State, primarily Daw Pha Kho, Htaw Ta Htu, Lu Thaw, Mu, Ler Doh, and Hsaw Hti Townships.68 The boundaries of these locally recognized administrative units roughly correspond with Thandaung, Tantabin, Hpapun, Mone, Kyaukkyi, and Shwegyin Townships on government-delineated maps. 69 The KORD and CIDKP data sets make it possible to describe the Tatmadaw’s widespread and systematic use of faminogenic practices across all six townships, the details of which appear in Appendix 3. But Thandaung (Daw Pha Kho) and Tantabin (Htaw Ta Htoo) Townships, both of which fall within the boundaries of Toungoo District on KNU-delineated maps, are the primary geographic focus of the report. Many of the operations simultaneously targeted villages on both sides of the township boundary—hence, the decision to analyze them concurrently. Battalions under Southern Regional Command also operated further south in Mone Township, which borders Tantabin. Details regarding their activities are included in the forced migration summaries for this reason as well.
Tatmadaw units have carried out attacks against civilians in Toungoo District for decades. The earliest reports of Four Cuts operations in the district date back to 1974-1975, and major offensives occurred again in 1992 and 1996-1997.70 The latter offensive enabled the Tatmadaw effectively to divide the region in half, with the various commands in control of areas north of the Toungoo – Kler Lah – Maw Chi Road and the Southern Command in areas south of it. Road construction, completed using considerable amounts of civilian forced labor between 1995 and 1998, contributed to the increased militarization of Thandaung and Tantabin Townships.71 The process resulted in a significant rise in the number of Tatmadaw bases and camps, as well as the number of villages forced to relocate closer to them.72
Much of the district is mountainous, especially in the southeast. Elevations in this area often range from 1,000-2,500 meters above sea level. With few exceptions, remote areas are accessible only on foot or, in places where rivers drain the Ka Ser Lu Range, small boats. The KNU/KNLA still retained a significant presence in the both townships following the above offensives. But Tatmadaw military operations conducted during 2002, 2003, and 2004 further eroded the ability of the KNU to administer daily affairs and Brigade No. 2 of the KNLA to retain territory.73
68 See Map 3. For more detailed maps, see KHRG, “Location,” available at http://khrg.org/reports/location. 69 See Myanmar Information Management Unit, “GIS Resources,” available at http://themimu.info/gis-resources for official maps. 70 KORD and CIDKP informants routinely reference these offensives when recounting local conflict histories. 71 IHRC (2014a), pp. 30-31. 72 KHRG, False Peace: Increasing SPDC Military Repression in Toungoo District of Northern Karen State (25 March 1999), available at https://khrg.org/1999/03/khrg9902a/false-peace-increasing-spdc-military-repression- toungoo-district-northern-karen (accessed 18 December 2017). 73 See ERA requests in: CIDKP-2002-13, KORD-2002-15, KORD-2003-04, KORD-2003-06, KORD-2004-02, CIDKP-2004-02, KORD-2004-06, and CIDKP-2004-09. For background, see KHRG, Flight, Hunger, and Survival: Repression and Displacement in the Villages of Papun and Nyaunglebin, available at https://khrg.org/2001/10/anthony0103dps/flight-hunger-and-survival-repression-and-displacement-villages-papun- and (accessed 1 December 2017); KHRG, Expansion of the Guerrilla Retaliation Units and Food Shortages in Toungoo District of Northern Karen State (16 June 2003), available at https://khrg.org/2003/06/khrg03u1/expansion-guerrilla-retaliation-units-and-food-shortages-toungoo-district- northern (accessed 1 December 2017); KHRG, Enduring Hunger and Repression: Food Scarcity, Internal
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 26
According to KORD and CIDKP documentation, Tatmadaw attacks on civilians in Thandaung Township, which is sparsely populated, displaced 6,784 people in 2002, 7,570 people in 2003, and 14,838 people in 2004. Using 2014 national census data, which is the only official data available, the successive operations displaced approximately nine, ten, and nearly twenty-percent of the township’s total rural population, respectively.74
Despite the informal “gentleman’s [ceasefire] agreement” between the KNU and the Tatmadaw, reached in January of 2004, the latter’s battalions continued to expand their presence in Toungoo District, in addition to neighboring Hpapun District. The Tatmadaw did so by building dry-season roads and establishing new camps in areas where they previously had none. 75 These actions violated the terms of the agreement, which specified what areas troops could be stationed as well as rules regarding their deployment, and resulted in more than 200 skirmishes during the first six months of the ceasefire. 76 The skirmishes contributed to further displacement. According to KHRG researchers, an estimated 10,000-12,000 IDPs continued to hide in the rugged mountains of Toungoo District, with approximately half of them in Thandaung Township and the other half in Tantabin Township.77 Villagers residing in areas close to roads and/or military encampments endured a sharp increase in demands for forced labor, money, and the provision of construction materials by Tatmadaw troops as well. Together, these patterns significantly reduced the ability of both populations to grow and to forage sufficient food, engage in day labor with which to purchase necessities, travel to markets, and so on.78
One cross-border humanitarian aid expert offered three possible reasons as to why the 2004 informal ceasefire did not hold.79 First, construction of Naypyidaw, the new administrative capital began in late 2005, and the desire to create a “security perimeter” to protect it was likely a contributing factor.80 Second, the regime also wanted to build a series of hydroelectric dams along
Displacement, and the Continued Use of Forced Labor in Toungoo District (24 September 2004), available at https://khrg.org/2004/09/khrg0401d/enduring-hunger-and-repression-food-scarcity-internal-displacement-and- continued (accessed 1 December 2017). 74 The census found 96,052 people living in the township, nearly eighty-percent of them in rural areas. The average population density is population density of 26.44 people km2. See https://www.citypopulation.de/php/myanmar- admin.php?adm2id=030103 (accessed 1 December 2017). 75 In 1995, the Tatmadaw maintained 10 camps in Eastern Pegu Division (now Bago Region). By 2005, the number had increased to 17. The militarization of Karen State was far more pronounced over this same period, with the number of camps rising from 20 to 75. See map, “Militarization in Eastern Burma 1995-2005,” in TBBC, Internal Displacement and Protection in Eastern Burma (Bangkok: TBBC, 2005), p. 19. During this same period, Tatmadaw activity resulted in the destruction, relocation, or abandonment of 146 villages in Eastern Bago Region and 672 villages in Karen State. Ibid., p. 23. 76 TBBC, Internal Displacement and Vulnerability in Eastern Burma (Bangkok: TBBC, 2004), p. 32. 77 KHRG, ‘Peace,’ or Control? The SPDC’s Use of the Karen Ceasefire to Expand Its Control and Repression of Villages in Toungoo District, Northern Karen State (21 February 2005), available at https://khrg.org/2005/03/khrg05f3/peace-or-control-spdcs-use-karen-ceasefire-expand-its-control-and-repression (accessed 15 December 2017). For a time-specific map, see TBBC (2004), p. 33. 78 KHRG (2005). 79 U.S. Embassy, “KNU Letter to SPDC Appeals for Peace,” Cable No. 05RANGOON908 (5 August 2005). 80 The theory, although widely reported at the time, is not convincing. It fails to explain why large-scale clearance operations targeted Karen civilians in townships in eastern Bago Region and Karen State, both of which are quite distant from Naypyidaw.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 27
the Salween River, three of them (Weigyi, Dagwin, and Hatgyi) in Karen State.81 To do so, permanent control of the sites and the access routes to them was needed. Third, the affected areas are part of the KNU “heartland” and “hardline elements in the regime” may have wished to defeat them militarily on the assumption that they would, unlike KNU/KNLA leaders farther south, never surrender.82 The IHRC report concluded that the primary goal of the Northern Offensive was in fact to clear the targeted region of civilians, and thus deprive the KNU/KNLA of much needed resources.83 KORD and CIDKP data corroborate IHRC’s conclusion.
81 Salween Watch Coalition, “Damming Burma’s War Zone: Proposed Salween Dams Cement Military Control Over Ethnic Peoples (1 October 2006), available at https://www.internationalrivers.org/resources/damming- burma’s-war-zone-proposed-salween-dams-cement-military-control-over-ethnic-peoples (accessed 11 January 2018). 82 U.S. Embassy, “Offensive in Karen State?: A Cross-Border Aid Worker Offers Views,” Confidential Cable No. 06BANGKOK3799 (28 June 2006). For a Karen analysis of the causes behind the offensive, see KHRG, “Civilians as Targets” (30 April 2006), available at http://khrg.org/2006/04/khrg06c1/civilians-targets (accessed 28 December 2017). The October 2004 arrest of Prime Minister and Chief of Military Intelligence, Lieutenant-General Khin Nyunt, is one sign of this shift. The subsequent purge of his supporters by hardliners, led by Senior General Than Shwe, effectively ended reconciliation efforts with non-ceasefire NSAGs and political liberalization more generally. Brigadier-General Ye Win and Brigadier-General Win Myint, who oversaw combat forces in Thandaung Township were among them. Both were appointed ambassadors, which is widely seen to be a form of exile. “All Change: Burmese Junta Reshuffles Officers Again, Democratic Voice of Burma (20 May 2005). 83 IHCR (2014b), p. 35.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 28
2004-2005 Forced Migration Summary
In late 2003, three battalions (IB-53, IB-75, and IB-124), under the Southern Regional Command, carried out search-and-destroy patrols along both sides of the Day Loh River in Thandaung Township, as well as constructed new front-line camps on the Kayah Border.84 The patrols, which lasted nearly a month, affected 3,307 people (558 households) from 17 villages.85 According to one local source, General Tin Aye, the Southern Military Commander, ordered Khin Maung Oo, the Military Strategy Commander, to instruct his battalions to destroy all paddy farms, as well as paddy and rice barns. IDPs reported that troops located and destroyed 58 paddy farms and forced them to abandon more than 100 cardamom gardens. Ongoing patrols into January of 2004 prevented the IDPs from clearing new fields, and the remaining rice they had spoiled due to heavy rains. One villager from Ga Mu Der explained, “In the present situation, the living of those under the SPDC control are like living without a life.”86
Pasaung (Bawlakhe District) in Kayah State, borders Kayin State (see Appendix E). Much of the rugged and heavily forested terrain is a black zone due to the presence of a hostile armed ethnic group, the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP). Tatmadaw units have long targeted villages in it, especially those close to Thandaung and Tantabin Townships. 87 10 Tatmadaw battalions operating in Pasaung Township in late 2003 and early 2004 caused 1,998 people (402 households) from 17 villages in the Maw Chi area to flee south to 5 hiding sites in neighboring Toungoo District, located to the west, and Hpapun Township, located to the south.88 The decision to leave was, in part, prompted by an order signed by the commander of IB-55, which stated: “Those who refuse to relocate [to Pasaung, Maw Chi and Nan Kit] will be regarded as illegal people or anti-government elements, and the government will not take any responsibility on them in case of any matter occur[s].” 89 Tatmadaw soldiers, in other words, will regard them as insurgents and treat them accordingly. The IDPs were able to carry only a few weeks of food as a result, which prompted KSWDC’s request for emergency ration assistance.90
Troops under Eastern Regional Command (IB-54, IB-135, LIB-337, LIB-429, LIB-502, LIB-511) also sought consolidate village south of Maw Chi Town, another black area. The battalions carried out search-and-destroy operations in May and laid landmines throughout the area. The operations
84 IB-73, LIB-590, and LIB-599, under the Southern Regional Command, carried out clearing operations in four village tracts in KNU-delineated Mone (Mu) Township, which borders Toungoo District during this same period. (The villages are located relatively close to Mone and Paungseik Towns.) The operations affected 1,819 people (281 households) from 9 villages. CIDKP-2004-05. 85 Military activities do not always result in displacement, especially in brown areas where everyday forms of exploitation (e.g. forced labor, extortion, and theft) erode food security and generate requests for ERA. Flight is the common practice in black areas. To avoid confusion, I use the “affected” rather than “displaced,” as it applies in both conflict contexts. 86 KORD-2004-02. 87 The number of Tatmadaw camps in Kayah State as a whole rose from 12 to 50 between 1995 and 2005. Military activity resulted in the destruction, relocation, or abandonment of 270 villages during this same period. Specific figures for Pasaung and Pruso Townships are not available, however. TBBC (2005), pp. 19, 23. 88 The Toungoo Town – Baw Ga Li (Kler Lah) – Maw Chi – Pasaung Town all-season road provides the primary access route for Tatmadaw operations to the north (Thandaung Township) and south (Tantabin Township), in addition to the Maw Chi area in neighboring Kayah State. 89 KSWDC-2004-01. 90 Ibid.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 29
prompted 2,098 people (392 households) from 16 villages to flee—some to Hpapun Township (80 households), whereas others relocated south of the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road (312 households). Many of the IDPs broke into small groups (2-3 households) for hiding purposes, but that makes them more vulnerable. A KSWDC staff person explained, “many of their hiding places are known to them [the battalions] and it means that if killed, there is no one to report it.”91
Between December 2003 and April of 2004, several of the same battalions under Southern Regional Command (IB-39, IB-48, IB-92, IB-124, and LIB-589) cleared civilians out of the Western Klay War area (Thandaung Township) and the Kaw Thay Der area (Tantabin Township).92 The area is close to the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, near the Kler Lah Relocation Camp, adjacent to the Kayah State border. In addition to indiscriminant attacks on civilians, troops targeted cash crops, e.g. coffee, betel nut and, especially, cardamom. The operations affected 2,740 people (496 households) from 9 villages.93
Six battalions (LIB-94, LIB-117, LIB-508, LIB-509, LIB-511, and LIB-509) belonging to Tactical Command 551 of LID-55 carried out similar operations, which began in December of 2003 and continued until mid-March of 2004. The battalions concentrated their patrols north of Bu Hsa Khee Village and south of the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, adjacent to the Kayah State border. Two other armed ethnic groups allied with the Tatmadaw, KNPLF and the KNSO, participated as well. Between mid-March and late April, military activity led 4,457 people (750 households) from 22 villages to flee, many of them to hiding sites in the deep forest. The troops, local administrators stated, burnt homes, as well as destroyed farms and food supplies (more than 1,500 baskets of paddy were lost). For IDPs in hiding sites, the nearest place to purchase rice and other necessities (markets in Kler Lah and Tha Daw) was a twenty-mile hike through a conflict zone on foot. For people who returned to their villages by the end of the year, further militarization meant that forced labor had become a defining feature of everyday life.94
During this same period, several of the same Southern Command battalions (IB-39, IB-48, IB-55, and IB-75) conducted search-and-destroy operations in Thandaung and Tantabin Townships, west of the Day Loe and Ya Loe Rivers. The area is a black zone, as one informant explained: “When the Burmese troops meet with them [civilians] the troops open fire to them…” Local sources again stated that General Tin Aye, the Southern Military Commander, ordered Khin Maung Oo to increase the frequency of the missions and to plant more anti-personnel landmines. The joint operations, which continued into mid-April of 2004, affected 4,334 people (795 households) from 17 villages.95
In May of 2004, LID-55, led by Col. Thet Oo, launched clearance operations in the Maw Chi region of Kayah State that continued until late September. “The SPDC,” one local source explained, “labeled the Maw Chi region a black area, which means that the area is void of law and order…” Fifteen different battalions, plus KNPLF and KNSO troops, participated. LIB-135
91 KSWDC-2005-03. 92 LIB-599, also under Southern Regional Command, forcibly relocated 1,521 (152 households) from Ko Ni Village, south of Mone Town, in February 2004. Local sources report travel restrictions, torture, and indiscriminant attacks on civilians between February and May. CIDKP-2004-12. 93 CIDKP-2004-09. 94 KORD-2004-06. 95 CIDKP-2004-02.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 30
Commander, Lt. Col. Aung Aung, ordered 7 villages to relocate to Bawlahke, stating: “Noncompliance will be termed as KNPP sympathizers and threatened to be severely treated,” i.e., people who refuse will be considers supports of the insurgent group and treated accordingly. The inhabitants of these villages refused, as did thousands of others, who went into hiding. All told, 4,123 people (788 households) from 41 villages in affected areas of Pasaung Township needed funds with which to purchase emergency rations according to KSWDC.96
Battalions under Southern Command (IB-73, IB-124, LIB-53, LIB-60, LIB-590) utilized forced labor to resupply their frontline camps between September and December 2004. Patrols originating from these camps caused 3,838 people (750 households) from 16 villages in the Maw Nya Bwa and Kaw They Der areas (Tantabin Township) to go into hiding temporarily. The timing of the search-and-destroy patrols, which primarily targeted food supplies, prevented villagers from harvesting crops during November and December. CIDKP field staff were not able to document the total crop losses, including cardamom, resulting from the patrols, however.97
Troops from the same Southern Command battalions (joined by LIB-439) also conducted search and destroy patrols south of the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, adjacent to the Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road, which cuts southeast towards neighboring Hpapun Township. The patrols began in November and continued into February 2005. IDPs report that the battalions stole or destroyed the majority of the harvest, burnt paddy barns in each of the affected villages, and seized betel nut, approximately 240,000 viss, from 178 gardens in the area. Firefights with KNU troops (at least six occasions in December) made the situation increasingly unstable for the 2,906 people (457 households) from 15 villages that sought refuge in the forest. (Most of them were living in temporary groups, 5-10 households, to reduce the likelihood that patrols would find them.) The KORD assessment team wrote, “At the time we visited the area, we found that the villagers were depending on the little paddy that were not found by the SPDC, and we believe that they [the IDPs] will finish it already. Now they will have to depend on borrowing from lowland villages or working on daily labor as on any kind of work they could find.”98
Southern Regional Command battalions (IB-26, IB-48, IB-60, IB-73, IB-75, IB-92, LIB-440) continued search-and-destroy operations in Western Klay Soe area (Thandaung Township) and the Kaw They Der area (Tantabin Township) during the hot season.99 These battalions targeted upland paddy fields and cardamom gardens between February and June 2005. 3,841 people (676 households) from 9 villages abandoned their homes as a result. Villagers normally prepare their paddy fields during these months. The patrols, which prevented them from doing so, and the widespread destruction of the cardamom gardens, meant the IDPs would have little or no money to purchase rice in the Kaw Thay Der and Kler Lah markets.100
96 KSWDC-2004-05. 97 CIDKP-2005-01. 98 KORD-2005-02. 99 IB-73, LIB-590, and LIB-599 battalions, under Southern Regional Command, also conducted clearing operations in four village tracts in Mone Township between January and May of 2005. Villagers in these areas normally flee whenever troops approach. The operations, east of the Mone – Thandaung Road and north of the Kyaukkyi – Mu Theh – Saw Hta Road, affected 1,389 people (197 households) from 8 villages. IDPs reported extensive crop losses: 3,000 tins of rice burnt, which is equivalent to a three-month supply, and the destruction of more than 100 gardens used to cultivate cash crops (cardamom, betel nut, dog fruit, and durian). KORD-2005-03. 100 CIDKP-2005-08.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 31
Southern Regional Command battalions (IB-30, IB-48, IB-73, and IB-92), along with “guerrilla retaliation units” (Sa Thon Lon Dam Byan Byaut Kya), commonly known as “Short-Pants” (Baw Bi Doh) in Karen, also conducted operations farther south in the Kho Khee and Kaw Thay Der areas in Tantabin Township. The area, east of the Bu Hsa Khee – Kler Lah Road and south of the Kler Lah – Maw Chi Road, is a “hiding area,” i.e., a black area. Villagers normally abandon their homes whenever troops approach—in this instance: 2,133 people (356 households) from 11 villages. The patrols, which began in April and continued through July, destroyed 204 cardamom gardens, 33 coffee gardens, 13 durian gardens, and 14 paddy fields. The overarching goal of the operations, local sources explained, was to build further military camps and establish secure supply lines for them.101
Battalions under Eastern Regional Command targeted Pasaung Township, and conducted patrols during the hot season (June-July 2005) as well. 6 battalions (IB-135, LIB-337, LIB-429, LIB-511, and LIB-502) launched “clearing” operations north of the Pasaung – Kler Lah Road, largely in response to a KNPP ambush, which left one Tatmadaw officer and five privates killed. The needs assessment, despite its limited information, indicates that 3,503 people (623 households) from 24 small settlements were affected.102
In total, Tatmadaw battalions conducted 12 large-scale operations – variously referred to a “clearing” and “search-and-destroy” patrols in the ERA requests – in Pasaung, Thandaung, and Tantabin Townships between December 2003 and July 2005. 103 The 4 operations in Pasaung Township affected 11,722 people (1,819 households) from 98 villages and settlements. Most of the IDPs either fled west into neighboring Thandaung Township or south to Hpapun Township.104 Eight operations in Thandaung and Tantabin Townships affected 24,249 people (4,280 households) from 99 villages.105 Requests for emergency rations, which provide a three-month supply of paddy/rice, allotting three tins/person, were substantial. In the case of Thandaung and Tantabin Townships, the total amount of ERA requested was equivalent to 763,844 kg. of paddy or 1,163,952 kg. of milled rice.
Village tracts to the north and to the south of the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, which bisects Thandaung and Tantabin Townships, and connects with Pasaung Township to the east were the
101 KORD-2005-05. 102 Karenni CSOs, including religious leaders, sought to facilitate ceasefire talks at the end of the year, but SPDC officials refused. “Karenni Groups Offer to Mediate New KNPP Cease-Fire,” Mizzima News (14 December 2005). 103 Tatmadaw search-and-destroy operations were not limited to these areas prior to the Northern Offensive. Battalions targeted villages in Hpapun Township (4 times in 2004 and 5 times in 2005), and Kyaukkyi (6 times in 2004 and then 4 times in 2005). See “2004 ERA Financial Tracker” and “2005 ERA Financial Summary” (on file with author). Details on these operations can be found in Appendix 3. For related discussion, see Human Rights Watch, “The Came and Destroyed Our Village Again”: The Plight of Internally Displaced Persons in Karen State (New York: HRW, 2005). 104 See: KSWDC-2004-01; KSWDC-2004-05; KSWDC-2005-03; and KSWDC-2005-07. It is likely that one of the strategic goals of the Tatmadaw operations south of the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road was to expand military control in the area surrounding the Maw Chi Mine in Bawlakhe District. The mine is a major source of tin-tungsten, which is used to solder wires on circuit boards of computers, mobile phones, etc. 105 See: KORD-2004-02; KORD-2004-06; CIDKP-2004-02; CIDKP-2004-09; CIDKP-2005-8; KORD-2005-02; CIDKP-2005-01; KORD-2005-05.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 32
most heavily targeted “black” areas. The existing and newly established (frontline) camps in these areas would later function as staging areas for the Northern Offensive.106
Battalions under the command of Major General Ko Ko (Southern Regional Command) and Brigadier General Khin Zaw Oo (LID-66), were very active in both Thandaung and Tantabin Townships during 2004-2005.107 The battalions reportedly perpetrated a wide array of human rights violations, including indiscriminant attacks and the willful killings of civilians, in addition to the deliberate destruction of food supplies. IHRC determined both generals werer responsible for crimes against humanity and war crimes during the Northern Offensive.108 The KORD and CIDKP data indicate that they could also be held legally responsible for the crimes carried out prior to it.
106 Historically, road upgrades and new road construction are key indicators of impending large-scale clearance operations. Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 2 (IHRC 2014a), p. 31. See also, U.S. Embassy, “Food Shortages and Roadwork in Northern Karen,” Cable no. 06RANGOON624 (9 May 2006). Troops imposed a complete blockade on the import of rice into the area, according to the cable, worsening existing food shortages in advance of the rainy season. 107 See Myanmar Tatmadaw Military Command Structure 2002-2010. It is not clear from the documents when LID- 66 troops withdrew from the region, before returning as part of the lead-up preparations for the Northern Offensive. 108 IHRC (2014a), pp. 58-71.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 33
2006 Forced Migration Summary
The geographic focus of the report is on clearance operations in Thandaung and Tantabin Townships. But summaries regarding operations in neighboring Mone Township, located immediately south of Toungoo District, are also included where battalions under Southern Regional Command (IB-60, LIB-590, and LIB-599) were involved.109 These battalions, often in conjunction with those under other MOCs, carried out search-and-destroy patrols on numerous occasions between November 2005 and January 2007, affecting 12,025 people (1,796 households) from 63 villages in Mone Township according to KORD and CIDKP documentation.110
109 In 2006, roving patrols also prompted ERA requests from KORD and CIDKP throughout the region: 6 ERA requests from Hpapun Township (17,343 people from 67 villages); 8 from Kyaukkyi Township, which includes Mone Township data (28,924 people from 109 villages); 2 from Shwegyin Township (7,405 people from 38 villages); and 3 from western Kayah State (9,526 people from 45 villages and settlements). 2006 ERA Financial Tracker (on file with author). For further details, see Appendix 3. 110 CIDKP-2006-02; KORD-2006-08; KORD-2006-16; and KORD-2007-09. Map source: FBR, “Situation Map: Nov 1 2006,” available at: http://www.freeburmarangers.org/wp- content/uploads/2011/02/20061031_situation_map.jpg (accessed 2 March 2018).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 34
MOC-16 battalions, also under the Southern Regional Command, began roving patrols in Kyaukkyi Township, south of Mone Township, while its Southern Regional Command counter- part, MOC-21, targeted villages on both sides of the Yunzalin River, which bisects Hpapun Township. MOC-10 and MOC-15, both under South Eastern Regional Command, patrolled the mountains of eastern Shwegyin Township and northern Hpapun Township.111 (69,000 baskets of paddy were burnt or confiscated by these battalions in Hpapun Township alone. 112 ) TBBC, drawing upon CSO data, reported that successive operations, which involved more than 30 battalions, forced residents to abandon more than 100 villages in the three townships, displacing in excess of 22,000 civilians in the process.113
Thandaung and Tantabin
The first KORD ERA request detailed attacks on 15 villages in the Klah Wa Mu Htaw area, north of the Mo Khee – Kler Lah Road, in Thandaung Township, and the Kaw They Der and Kho Khee areas, between Mo Khee and the Bu Hsa Khee Road in Tantabin Township. Villagers in these two areas rely on hillside paddy cultivation (30%), gardening (35%), day labor (25%), as well as some animal husbandry and forest products. The operations began in November of 2005 and continued through February of 2006, affecting 2,683 people (446 households). Battalions under Southern Regional Command (four total) and LID-66 (nine total) conducted search-and-destroy patrols through this period. 114 Troops destroyed 640 baskets of paddy, 492 baskets of rice, and 26 cardamom gardens, as well as burning more than two-dozen houses. According to local sources, the troops constructed new camps and stockpiled food and ammunition with the goal of clearing the area entirely within six months. “They” [troops] spread the news to villagers in hiding areas [IDPs] that they will be the focus and shot at if there is any fighting [with the KNLA] or harm to the soldiers.”115
More than 1,300 of the IDPs made the dangerous 100-kilometer journey to the Thailand- Burma/Myanmar border following patrols by Southern Regional Command, LID-66, and MOC- 16 battalions during January and February 2006. One aid worker stated that IDPs “do not show themselves to the SPDC as the SPDC regards them as their enemies. Villagers are easy to kill if they are found. Therefore, people in this area are always running away [when] they heard that the SPDC troops come close to them.” According to the day-by-day data that KORD gathered from local sources, the troops set up successive short-term camps with the apparent goal of driving the IDPs from hiding place to hiding place, denying them access to sufficient food along the way. KORD statistics indicate that 958 of the IDPs joined the unofficial Ee Tu Hta IDP camp, which is located in northern Hpapun Township on the banks of the Salween River. Others opted to cross the river and enter the Mae Ra Ma Luang refugee camp in Mae Hong Son Province (Thailand).116
111 Ibid.; TBBC (2006), p. 37. KORD staff state that LIB-301 of LID-88, also under the Southern Regional Command, conducted an operation in Hpapun Township. KORD-2007-12. 112 TBBC (2006), p. 37. 113 Data current as of August 2006. Ibid., pp. 37, 57-58. 114 The KORD documents do not specify when the LID-66 troops arrived. IHRC dates their arrival to late January or early February, i.e., at the very end of these patrols. 115 KORD-2006-03. 116 Ei Htu Hta Camp 2006.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 35
LID-66, based in Kler Lah (Baw Ga Li Gyi), which is strategically situated along the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, carried out clearance operations in the Kaw Thay Der area (Tantabin Township) January through July. Livelihoods in the area are largely based on cash crops (e.g. cardamom, betel nut, durian, and mangosteen), as the poor soil prevents significant paddy cultivation. Many of the affected villages – 5 total – are located relatively close to the road. Civilians are routinely subject to forced labor, which reduces the time they have available to tend their crops, and extortion. Much of the road-related forced labor occurred between Kaw Ter Der Village and the Naw Soe military camp. Inhabitants were warned that soldiers would “shoot villagers on sight travelling on or within 50 yards of the road,” once all of the vegetation close it had been cleared. Troops (battalion not specified) also set the forest close to the road on fire to further reduce the risk of future KNLA ambushes. The fire destroyed many of the cash crops, especially cardamom. LID-66 troops and the other battalions in the area (IB-1, IB-10, IB-11, LIB-14, and LIB-568) additionally closed all markets and imposed tight travel restrictions, preventing people from spending the night in their paddy huts (makeshift shelters in their fields). 2,173 people (409 households) needed emergency rations due to the shortfall in food according to CIDKP staff.117
LID-66 and MOC-16, which is under Southern Regional Command, and MOC-15, from Western Regional Command, conducted search-and-destroy operations south of Thandaung Town, close to the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road between June and November 2006. During this period, the troops burned or otherwise destroyed 47 houses in 7 of the 11 affected villages, causing 2,272 people (522 households) to flee the Maw Nay Bwe area in Tantabin Township to avoid forced relocation. (Residents of three of the villager eventually relocated to military-controlled areas.) Villagers had to abandon 300 acres of paddy fields and approximately 1,400 baskets of rice, as well as 150 acres of peanuts. Patrols shot and killed 5 villagers and wounded 2 more for working in their farms or traveling between villages.118
LID-66 battalions (LIB-14, LIB-35, and LIB-108), as well as LIB-440 (Southern Regional Command), continued their patrols in Maw Nay Pwa and the Kaw Thay Der areas in February, resulting in further displacement. The village tracts are located west of the Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee Road, in Tantabin Township. The village tracts are “free-fire zones” (i.e. black) according to local sources, meaning that residents flee to the nearest hiding-sites whenever patrols approach. (At least three people were shot.) The 2,494 people (390 households from 14 villages) left behind 580 baskets of paddy, 360 baskets of rice, 445 viss of cardamom seed, and 800 viss of betel nut. Total losses are much higher, KORD staff report, but the security situation prevented them from conducting further fact-finding. During the ERA distribution in June, an IDP stated that, “currently, as the movement of the SPDC was increasing, the living area of the villagers were also getting narrow narrowed. Travel restrictions and landmines, typically placed along the paths to gardens, as well as continued indiscriminate attacks on civilians (mortars fired into fields and suspected hidings sites), made it increasingly difficult to cultivate and/or to purchase sufficient rice. Troops [battalions not specified] also forced 800 people from 5 villages to porter military rations to the Tha Aye and Naw Soe military camps to support future clearance operations in forward areas.119
117 CIDKP-2006-16. 118 CIDKP-2006-15. 119 KORD-2006-04.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 36
KNU leaders sought ceasefire discussions with SPDC officials in April and May of 2006 in response to the clearance operations in northern Karen areas.120 The officials refused to meet with them, however. Despite these refusals, SPDC Military Affairs Security Chief Lieutenant-General Ye Myint did not formally nullify the existing “gentleman’s agreement,” as the existing informal ceasefire with the KNU was known, until October. SPDC negotiators stated that new negotiations were the only option for moving forward. Further clearance operations, such as the one below, rather than dialogue, ensured, however.121
Between June and October, 6 MOC-16 battalions, 4 MOC-15 battalions, and 2 Southern Command battalions (LIB-590 and LIB-599) targeted highland settlements west of the Yunzalin River and north of the Kyaukkyi – Saw Hta Road. The villages are in a black zone, and people normally flee when patrols approach. Troops regularly fired mortars and shot indiscriminately into suspected IDP hiding areas, where many of the 3,794 people (628 households) from 21 villages affected by the operations had fled. The ongoing patrols prevented the IDPs from accessing their hidden food caches and other food sources. 3,240 baskets of paddy, 380 baskets of rice, 34 pigs, and 185 chickens were also lost.122
Seven LID-66, MOC-16, and MOC-15 battalions deployed twice. The first operation lasted two weeks (August), and the second for nearly two months (September-November). 2,285 people (358 households) from 17 villages fled, as the area, Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts in Tantabin Township, is a black (i.e. “shoot on sight”) zone. Patrols destroyed rice fields (240 total), harvested paddy (900 tins), 1,200 viss of cardamom seed, and 755 viss of betel nut. Indiscriminant attacks on civilians, including the firing of mortars into suspected IDP hiding sites, resulted in the death of at least five people. Due to the remoteness of the area, the nearest market (Kaw Thay Der) is a 2-3 day walk. Frequent patrols led IDPs seeking to buy rice to travel at night, which is very dangerous given the widespread use of landmines. The ERA distribution team, which in May of 2007, found that further attacks had killed two more civilians and wounded two others.123
LID-66 also initiated clearance operations in Klay Wa Mu Village Tract in Thandaung Township, located to the northeast of Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts. IB-1, IB-4, IB-11, and IB-14 conducted patrols from 1 September until 21 November, affecting 3,307 people (533 households) from 8 villages. The village tract is a mixed administration area (brown), and its inhabitants are dependent on shifting cultivation (swidden) and cardamom seeds of their livelihoods. During September, the battalions informed villagers that, “if they found any of [them]
120 “Junta Halts Peace Talks with KNU,” The Irrawaddy (28 April 2006). The Junta continued to allege that the KNU was a “terrorist organization,” and thus was responsible for Tatmadaw operations. Shah Paung, “KNU Denies Junta Accusations,” The Irrawaddy (10 April 2006). 121 “Myanmar Rebels Make Desperate Call for Ceasefire Talks,” Agence France Presse (17 May 2006); “Gentleman’s Agreement is Dead Says Burma Junta to KNU,” Democratic Voice of Burma (11 October 2006). KNU/KNLA infighting further hampered the ability of the factions to provide a united front on this issue. “Discord among Burma’s Karen Insurgents,” U.S. Embassy-Rangoon cable no. 06RANGOON1065 (26 July 2006); Shah Paung, “Growing Disunity among Karen Opposition Leaders,” The Irrawaddy (21 July 2006). For a broader discussion of such agreements during this period in time, see Zaw Oo and Win Min, Assessing Burma’s Ceasefire Accords (Washington: East-West Center, 2007). 122 KORD-2006-16. 123 KORD-2007-05. The ERA Impact Assessment Report (25 January 2008) indicates that ongoing operations led approximately 600 people from the affected area to relocate to the Ei Htu Hta IDP camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 37
going out of the villages, they will regard [them] as their enemy and kill them straight away. The restrictions, combined with poor weather and wild animals destroyed the harvest, resulting in the loss of an estimated 45,000 baskets of paddy and 7,000 viss of cardamom seeds. The four battalions, following orders from the LID-66 Division Commander, forced residents of the villages to rebuild and “clean” two dry-season roads linking Kaw Thay Der with Bu Hsa Khee as well as Klay So Khee with Pay Mu Kho. LID-66 and LID-88 troops began forcing people in the area to porter rations and ammunition to frontline camps, in addition to road and bridge repairs, beginning in early 2007.124
Mone
Another joint force targeted food supplies in four village tracts in Mone Township during two deployments (November-December of 2005 and February of 2006). 3 battalions under Southern Regional Command (IB-60, LIB-351, and LIB-599) participated in the roving joint patrols, which targeted villages close to the Kyaukkyi – Saw Hta Road, southeast of Mone Town. The first deployment, consisting of approximately 650 troops, lasted 25 days and resulted in the destruction of 168 farms that would typically produce 10,000 baskets of paddy, enough to feed 2,200 people for 3 months. The second deployment lasted 16 days. The troops burnt down another 42 paddy barns, destroying 3,521 of recently harvested paddy in the process. Both deployments left 3,577 people (499 households) from 20 villages in need of ERA.125
5 battalions, including LIB-590 and LIB-599, under Southern Regional Command, carried out indiscriminate attacks on civilians living in 8 village tracts in Mone Township between mid-March and mid-May. 3,484 people (566 people) from 15 villages were affected by the patrols, which resulted in the destruction of 90 homes and 19 paddy barns, containing 5,000 baskets of paddy and 200 baskets of rice. At least 17 people died, and five more were wounded. Subsequent patrols, conducted between April and September, forced villages to flee as many as 4-5 times.126
LID-66 and MOC-16 battalions, both of which are under the Southern Regional Command, and troops from MOC-15, conducted clearance operations in Mone Township in February, and into northern Hpapun (KNU: Luthaw) Township in April. They returned to the Kaw Thay Der area in Tantabin Township in June, again targeting villages near the Taungoo – Maw Chi Road, south of Thandaung Town and west of the Kayah State border. Troops continued to undermine food security through severe travel restrictions, extortion, and the destruction of gardens (cardamom, betel nut, durian, and mangosteen) upon which local livelihoods depend. (Poor soils limit paddy production.) Widespread forced labor further hindered the ability of villagers to tend and harvest cash crops, several of which (namely fresh fruit) are time-sensitive. In particular, troops required one person/household/day to help clear the road between Kaw Thay Der and the Naw Soe military camp to provide greater security from KNLA ambushes. “The SPDC announced that it would shoot villagers on sight travelling on or within 50 yards of the road,” after this section was cleared according to one local source. Ongoing military demands left 2,173 people (409 households) from 5 villages in need of emergency rations.127
124 KORD-2007-06. 125 CIDKP-2006-02. 126 KORD-2006-08. 127 CIDKP-2006-16.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 38
Change in IDPs Figures 2005-2006128
States IDPs in IDPs in IDPs in Total and Regions Hiding Sites Relocation Sites Ceasefire Areas IDPs 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 Eastern Bago 13,400 17,400 7,900 6,400 0 0 92,500 76,300 Karen 38,800 49,100 6,100 4,300 45,000 45,900 89,900 99,300
The IDP figures reported in the KORD and CIDKP documents above are part of a broader pattern of forced migration stemming from the Northern Offensive, with thousands of people opting to go into hiding rather than Tatmadaw-controlled relocation sites.129
In Thandaung, the 13 battalions operating under the command of LID-66 displaced 5,000 new individuals, while more than 13,000 chose to remain in hiding as close to their abandoned villages and fields as they dared despite the risk regular patrols and landmines posed to them. According to KORD, CIDKP, and other local CSOs, the military activities resulted in 22 civilian deaths, and the loss of “at least 160 paddy fields, 10,000 baskets of husked paddy, 1,000 baskets of milled rice, 420 cardamom gardens, 30 betel gardens, and 150 coffee gardens.”130 Travel restrictions and nation-wide inflation further undermined IDP food security, as the cost of one tin of rice rose 100% for those in hiding.131
The UN condemned the military regime on multiple occasions in 2006 as these events unfolded. The UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights Myanmar issued a series of statements to the UN General Assembly and the Human Right Council in February.132 In May, five UN Special Rapporteurs and an Independent Expert on Minority Issues specifically addressed the situation in northern Kayin State and eastern Bago Region, and called on the governing military regime “to take urgent measure to end the counter-insurgency operations targeting civilians.133 The military regime did not respond.134
128 TBBC (2006), p. 22. 129 For further discussion of displacement in Thandaung (Daw Pho Kho), Tantabin (Htaw Hta Htoo), and Hpapun (Luthaw) Townships, see American Association for the Advancement of Science, High-Resolution Satellite Imagery and the Conflict in Eastern Burma (Washington D.C.: AAAS Geospatial Technologies and Human Rights Project, 2010), available at https://www.aaas.org/sites/default/files/AAAS_Burma_Report.pdf (accessed 18 January 2018). 130 TBBC (2006), p. 36. 131 Ibid. The situation was similarly dire in the Kyaukkyi and Shwegyin Townships (eastern Bago Region) and Hpapun Township (Kayin State). Ibid., pp. 37-39. For further discussion, see KHRG, One Year On: Continuing Abuses in Toungoo District (Mae Sot, Thailand: KHRG, 2006). 132 Report of the Special Rapporteur, Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, “Questions on the Violation of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms in Any Part of the World: Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar” Report No. E/CN.4/2006/34 (7 February 2006), para. 104. 133 “UN Human Rights Experts Call on Myanmar to End Counter-Insurgency Operations Targeting Civilians in Northern Kayin State and Easter Pegu Division,” Office of the High Commission for Human Rights. Press release (16 May 2006). 134The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), which had grown more critical of the military regime by this point, did not publicly denounce the attacks on civilians either.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 39
2007 Forced Migration Summary
MOC-21, MOC-10, and MOC-9 battalions continued their efforts to expand their control over civilians in Nyaunglebin District, especially Kyaukkyi Township, for much of 2007.135 Villagers in lowland areas were subject to increased forced labor and extortion, which further undermined their food security. Meanwhile, clearance operations in the mountains east of the Sittaung River largely destroyed the food security of people in these black areas. According to KORD and CIDKP data, military activity, affecting 75 villages, left 16,566 people in need of ERA. Patrols in neighboring Shwegyin Township, resulted in 2 ERA requests to assist 8,411 people from 37 villages.
Clearance operations in northern Hpapun, specifically KNU-delineated Luthaw Township, generated the greatest need, however: 9 ERA requests for 21,688 people from 87 villages. Luthaw Township is heavily forested and contains very little flat land, leaving villagers dependent on a combination of upland paddy cultivation, cash crops, and wild food sources. The Tatmadaw considered it to be a black area, and the battalions focused their energies on two objectives. First, battalions with bases in elevated areas regularly fired mortars into villages located along the banks of the Yunzalin River to destroy homes and crops, as well as to drive civilians into the forest. Second, other battalions renewed efforts to improve existing dry season roads and to construct new ones to more easily resupply frontline camps. By the end of 2007, troops had completed a large section of road that connects with the major all-season Kyaukkyi - Saw Hta Road, effectively dividing Luthaw Township in half along a north-south axis. This development created a major security hazard for IDPs, who were no longer able to safely move through this area when fleeing roving patrols. The completion of this section was also a major step towards finishing a network of roads linking together bases and camps in southern Toungoo District, northeast Nyaunglebin District, and western Hpapun District.
Thandaung and Tantibin
Military operations in Thandaung and Tantabin Townships declined somewhat in 2007. (CIDKP issued 3 ERA requests, 2 of them coincided with the harvest.) Villagers identified MOC-10, under Southern Regional Command, in coordination with MOC-5, MOC-9, and MOC-21 battalions as the most active. Operations during 2005 and 2006 had further extended Tatmadaw control in these townships, which made forced labor, in addition to the deliberate destruction of cash crops, the primary causes of food insecurity. By contrast, operations in neighboring townships, Hpapun to the east and Kyaukkyi to the south, intensified. KORD and CIDKP submitted 9 ERA requests to support affected villagers and IDPs in the case of the former and 7 requests in the case of the latter due to urgent need for food in both townships.136
135 Some operations began in late 2006 and continued into 2007. See the KORD and CIDKP data in Appendix 3 for further details. 136 2007 ERA Financial Tracker (on file with the author). During 2007, some battalions under Southern Regional Command were also active in Hpapun Township (KORD-2007-12), Kyaukkyi Township (KORD-2007-09; KORD- 2007-10; KORD-2007-11; CIDKP-2007-09; CIDKP-2007-22), and Mone Township (KORD-2007-15; CIDKP- 2007-06). Battalions also conducted an operation in Pasaung Township (KSWDC-2007-03).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 40
The first ERA request resulted for military activity in the Maw Nay Bwa area of Tantabin Township, which is located east of the Sittaung River, adjacent to the southern boundary of Thandaung Township. During the hot season (April-June), MOC-9 battalions forced villagers to build four new outposts, porter food and ammunition to them, as well as construct a road from Tha Pye Nyung Village to Play Hsa Loe Village, a distance of approximately 16 miles. (Troops then laid landmines along it.) The battalions burnt at least 8 homes, 22 betel nut gardens, and cardamom gardens. Travel restrictions, which prevented villagers from getting their food to market, further undermined their food security. “The villagers have to go out very secretly to work for their families. When the villagers go out of the village to work, they have to cross the Burmese army troops, who will shoot them without question,” stated one former resident. An unknown number of civilians, out of the 1,044 people (182 households) from 6 villages the needed aid, scattered in different directions: some to hiding sites in the Per Hti area, others to the Play Hsa Loe relocation village, and still others to IDP camps near the border.137
MOC-5 and MOC-10 battalions also made extensive use of forced labor in the Kaw Thay Der area of Tantabin Township, which other military units had targeted on at least three prior occasions.138 These troops forced villages to (re-) build roads and bridges during the hot season (March-June), as well as contribute materials (bamboo and thatching) for fences. Severe travel restrictions, timed to coincide with the betel nut and cardamom harvest (November-December), resulted in significant loss of income, as did indiscriminate attacks, primarily mortars fired into gardens and suspected IDP hiding sites, which exacerbated food insecurity. These actions affected 2,199 people (398 households) from 4 villages according to CIDKP field staff. MOC-5 commander, Kaung Myat, reportedly stated that anyone travelling outside their village,” if found will be shot to death.” MOC- 10 troops later forced 500 people, including convict porters, to transfer supplies from Kler Lah, where it is based, to Maw Daw Kho and Naw Soe camps in March of 2008.139
6 MOC-9 battalions and LID-88 troops, along with battalions under the Southern Regional Command (LIB-590, LIB-599, and IB-60) stockpiled a year’s worth of food rations and ammunition in camps north of the Kyaukkyi – Saw Hta Road, west of the Sittaung River, in Mone Township during April and May of 2007. The battalions forced villages in lowland areas to porter the supplies to frontline outposts that trucks could not reach, and then imposed a severe travel ban. Roving patrols targeted upland villages in “free fire zone[s].” Troops carried out indiscriminant attacks targeting IDP hiding areas while also burning homes and destroying crops. Some villagers returned after the patrols ended, but a substantial number opted to remain in the forest where they subsisted on rice gruel mixed with bamboo. KNLA troops were occasionally able to arrange “secret trips” so that IDPs could obtain rice in mixed-administration areas. Due to the food losses, KORD requested ERA to help support 4,400 people (692 households) from 33 villages scattered across 9 KNU-delineated village tracts.140
The KNU-delineated Maw Keh Tha, Per Kho, Yu Loe, and Ka Mu Loe Village Tracts are in a mixed administration area dominated by hills. No roads exist, but the Mone River, which runs east to west, is partially navigable. Due to permanent presence of Tatmadaw troops in the area, villagers
137 CIDKP-2007-19. 138 CIDKP-2004-09; KORD-2005-05; and CIDKP-2006-16. 139 CIDKP-2008-11. 140 KORD-2007-15.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 41
regularly experienced severe travel restrictions, demands for forced labor (e.g. portering military supplies), and looting. MOC-16 and MOC-9 battalions ordered several of the affected villages to relocate in March 2007. The battalions later allowed them to return after paying a very large sum, but then forced them to relocate again in August. Troops killed several civilians and destroyed 32 gardens (including 5,600 betel nut trees and 34 acres of cardamom), which reduced their ability to sell their cash crops with which to purchase rice. In total, 2,691 people (360 households) from 8 villages needed ERA according to CIDKP.141
Southern Regional Command battalions (LIB-590, LIB-599, and IB-6), LID-88, and MOC-9 troops) began patrolling village tracts to the north of the above ones in April. The upland area is a “hiding zone.” Tatmadaw units began establishing outposts in many of the village tracts in 2006, which dramatically reduced freedom of movement (in part due to growing landmine contamination) and the available of arable land, which contributed to a very poor harvest.142 As a result, a substantial, but unknown number of people moved to the Thailand-Burma/Myanmar border region. Growing demands for forced labor (portering rations and ammunition to outposts) and several indiscriminant attacks on civilians, led people to abandon their homes and fields for weeks at a time. The patrols made it extremely difficult for people to access rice elsewhere, leaving 4,400 people (692 households) from 33 villages in need of ERA.143
The Maw Nya Bwa area in Tantabin Township, which is a mixed administration area west of the Yaw Loe Khlo River, consists of steep hills and valleys, so cash crops (cardamom, betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and mangosteen) are important sources of income. The influx of troops during 2006 enabled the Tatmadaw to militarize the area by establishing new roads, camps, and 4 relocation sites. Since then, the elderly, women, and children live in the camps, while the men travel outside them to cultivate their fields and gardens, as well as collect forest products. One resident stated, “it is very dangerous, some were shot by the Burma army, and died [or] were wounded.” (The ERA request contains information on the 7 people killed, 11 wounded, and 12 arbitrarily arrested between January and July of 2007). During November and December of 2007, MOC-21 arrived to oversee the (re-) construction of the Tha Kye Nyunt – Ma Lu Loe – Si Daw Kho Road and to provide security for the transport of military supplies. Beginning in February of 2008, MOC-9 started fires, which burnt 46 cardamom and 51 betel nut gardens. CIDKP requested aid for 1,794 people (332 households) from 8 villages in response to these pressures on food security.144
During November and December, MOC-21 and MOC-4 battalions targeted additional hiding areas in the Maw Nay Pwa, Kaw Thay Der, and Kho Khe areas, located east of the junction where the Kler Lah – Saw Mu Road and the Plaw Kler Lah – Maw Chi Road meet.145 Earlier patrols, carried out in July, caused villagers to abandon 50 hillside paddy fields. This round of patrols, which included the construction of 2 new outposts and the destruction of 40 houses resulted in significant food and cash crop losses: 2,156 baskets of paddy, 866 viss of cardamom, 120 viss of betel nut. The patrols, which coincided with the harvest, also forced villagers to abandon 48 more paddy
141 CIDKP-2007-21. 142 People in these areas received ERA in December of 2006 as a result of the militarization. KORD-2006-16. 143 KORD-2007-15. 144 CIDKP-2008-12. 145 LID-66 and LID-88 battalions carried out clearance operations in this same area. KORD-2008-09.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 42
fields, which the troops later destroyed. Troops withdrew on 10 December, leaving 1,877 people (330 households) from 18 villages in need of humanitarian assistance.146
Mone
LIB-351 and LIB-590, as well as MOC-16, which is also under the Southern Regional Command, along with MOC-10 troops, patrolled 2 neighboring village tracts in Mone Township. The patrols had an adverse impact on the food security for 2,370 people (341 households) from 12 villages. The patrols began in March and ended in November, lasting between 2-3 weeks each. The KNU- delineated Hgo Pu and Hsaw Mee Luu Village Tracts are “hiding areas,” and the villagers had to repeatedly flee when troops approached. Despite the risks (battalions regularly fired on civilians) IDPs secretly cultivated their fields at night and recovered their hidden caches when circumstances allowed. The patrols destroyed 93 rice fields that would have produced approximately 8,300 baskets of paddy. They also burnt or removed the tops of 151 paddy barns to allow rain to spoil the remainder of the previous harvest, which IDPs said totaled 10,337 baskets.147
LIB-590 and LIB-599 also patrolled the KNU-delineated Myet Yeh Village Tract, which is a mixed administration area east of the Sittaung River, relatively near Kyaukkyi Town. Due to the proximity of the village tract to the town, where the battalions are based, troops frequently demanded forced labor (215 people had to porter food supplies and construct military camps for 12 days in July, for example) and extorted money (LIB-599 detained 11 civilians from 2 villages, threatened to imprison them for 10 years, and finally released them after a substantial ransom was paid). The battalions proceeded to burn 130 farm huts in August, claiming that they provided KNLA soldiers with shelter. In August, LIB-599 troops killed several villagers and then imposed a travel ban that prevented people from cultivating their fields. 172 fields were either destroyed by the soldiers or flooded as a result of the ban. CIDKP staff were able to access the area in 2008, and they found that 2,123 people (310 households) from 4 villages required ERA.148
LIB-590 and LIB-599 continued to tighten their control of the Myaung Oo Village Tract, which is east of the Sittaung River, close to Mone Town from late 2007 into early 2008. The battalions instituted severe travel restriction in August, which remained in place through January. LIB-590 burnt 230 paddy farms and warned villagers that they would be “shot-on-sight,” if found in their fields during this period. Flooding and pests destroyed a further 170 acres of rice that would have produced 17,000 tins of paddy according to local sources. Due to the extended presence of the battalions, troops regularly demanded forced labor and extorted considerable sums of money, which often required villagers to sell their livestock and personal property to pay. CIDKP provided ERA to those in need – 2,623 people (345 households) from 3 villages – in September of 2008.149
LIB-590 and LIB-599, with MOC-21 and MOC-9 battalions, also targeted hiding areas in 6 upland village tracts located north of Kyaukkyi Town and east of the Sittaung River in Mone Township. Villagers in this area rely upon hillside paddy production and cash crops (cardamom, betel nut,
146 Ibid. See also CIDKP-2008-12 for additional information. 147 CIDKP-2007-08. 148 CIDKP-2008-06. 149 A subsequent impact assessment, submitted in June 2009, indicated that the same battalions continued to commit the abuses throughout this nearly two-year period. CIDKP-2008-05.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 43
dog fruit, and durian) for their livelihoods. The area is also hiding area, noted one KORD staff person, who then quoted an IDP, “Whenever the SPDC comes close, people are running away to escape from the SPDC troops as they will be killed straight away if found.” The battalions entered the area in December of 2007 and did indeed carry out indiscriminate attacks, firing mortars into suspected hiding sites and shooting villagers they encountered. IDPs reported that the troops burnt 10 houses and 15 farm huts, as well as destroyed 600 baskets of paddy, 110 baskets of rice, and 250 viss of betel nut. LIB-590 and LIB-599 patrolled the lower areas with the goal of blocking upland-lowland trade by identifying hidden travel routes and laying landmines along them. The operations continued through the end of January 2008, preventing the villagers from cultivating their fields and gardens, which resulted in a much smaller harvest and thus food shortages. According to the KORD profile, 2,330 people (341 households) from 16 villages only had sufficient food for a couple of months. The report on the ERA distribution indicates that further patrols occurring, after the submission of the ERA request (a period of three months), displaced villagers 2-3 more times.150
In sum, TBBC, using KORD and CIDKP data, found that more than 42,000 people in Thandaung, Hpapun, Kyaukkyi, and Shwegyin Townships were displaced between November of 2006 and November of 2007 due to the more than 40 “roving” battalions targeting civilians in these areas.151 Troops active in Thandaung alone killed at least 38 civilians during this period according to local sources.152 However, the primary goal was to force villagers to leave black areas rather than kill them, using a combination of terror (e.g. indiscriminant attacks) and the destruction of food supplies. TBBC’s 2007 IDP survey, based on field data CSOs (including KORD and CIDKP), supports the claim.
The CSOs administered survey questionnaires to nearly 1,000 households in 38 townships in southeastern Burma/Myanmar. Cluster sampling enabled them to collect information from villagers in hiding sites, relocation sites, mixed administration areas, and ceasefire areas. Not surprisingly, heavy artillery attacks (31%), small arms attacks (23%), and landmines or military patrols (58%) constitute the greatest threats to IDPs in hiding areas, especially in eastern Bago Region and northern Karen State, the epicenter of the Northern Offensive.153 All three sources of insecurity are indirect, i.e., they are designed to depopulate areas and to prevent return to them— hence, the low number of fatalities.154 The biggest threats to their livelihoods are thus travel restrictions (39%), the destruction or theft of food (28%), and the destruction of their forms or forced relocation.155 60% of the IDPs in hiding sites surveyed maintain hidden food caches, and 63% of them are prepared for emergency evacuations as a result.156 Due to these vulnerability
150 KORD-2008-10. 151 TBBC, Internal Displacement in Eastern Burma 2007 Survey (Bangkok: TBBC, 2007), p. 36. For township specific figures, see Ibid., p. 67. FBR reports that 23 battalions were active in Toungoo District, 33 in Nyaunglebin District, and 28 in Hpapun District. But the battalions, which are normally supposed to have at least 800 troops, frequently contain less than half of that number. U.S. Consulate Chiang Mai, “Burmese Army Possibly Preparing for Karen State Offensive,” Cable No. 07CHIANGMAI03 (28 December 2007). 152 TBBC (2007), p. 36. 153 Ibid., p. 46. 154 By contrast, more direct forms of violence (e.g. arrest or detention, torture or beatings, and forced labor— including portering and landmine sweeping) are most common in areas under Tatmadaw control, specifically mixed administration zones and relocation sites. Ibid., p. 47. 155 Ibid., p. 47. 156 Ibid. p. 54.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 44
factors, acute malnutrition among children, typically used as a proxy for the population as a whole, was 9.5% among new refugee arrivals in 2006 and IDPs in 2007.157
157 Ibid., pp. 52-53. For further discussion, see Thomas Lee and et al., “Mortality Rates in Conflict Zones in Karen, Karenni, and Mon States in Eastern Burma,” Tropical Medicine & International Health 11, no. 7 (2006): 1119- 1127; Luke Mullany and et al., “Population-Based Survey Methods to Quantify Associations between Human Rights Violations and Health Outcomes among Internally Displaced Persons in Eastern Burma,” Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health 61, no. 10 (2007): 908-914.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 45
2008 Forced Migration Summary
LID-66 and LID-88 battalions continued to displace civilians in KNU-delineated Luthaw Township (Hpapun District) for much of 2008. More than 12,000 people from 40 villages found themselves in need of ERA according to KORD and CIDKP. Due to the ongoing operations, some people fled deeper into the mountains. Others moved to the Thailand-Burma/Myanmar border. Still others found themselves forced into relocations sites further south in lowland areas of KNU- delineated Bu Thoh and Dweh Loh Townships. Meanwhile, clearing operations under the direction of LID-33 remained intense across upland areas in Kyaukkyi Township.158 KORD and CIDKP provided ERA to 17,394 people from 60 villages. By contrast, operations in Shwegyin dropped significantly. Only 18 villages, home to 3,487 people, needed emergency food rations. The frequency and severity of Tatmadaw operations in Thandaung and Tantabin Townships similarly declined dramatically in 2008. KORD and CIDKP only requested ERA on 3 occasions.
Thandaung and Tantabin
MOC-5 (LIB-371, LIB-372, and LIB-373) and MOC-10 (LIB-363, LIB-364, and LIB-365) battalions targeted remote hiding areas in the Eastern Day Loe area in Thandaung Township in early December of 2007. Patrols continued through mid-January 2008. The area is located north of Thandaung Town, east of the Day Lu Mu Htaw River, and west of the Kayah State border. Villagers rely upon a combination of hillside paddy and cash crops (cardamom, dog fruit, durian, betel nut, and mangosteen) for their livelihoods. Troops constructed five new outposts in the area in early December, enabling them to extend their roving patrols further into the mountains, which prompted 2,046 people (353 households) from 15 villages to flee. One local source, speaking about the Northern Offensive, stated that it “mainly targeted civilians as the main enemies of them [the Tatmadaw]. [They] looked for villagers to kill them and destroyed their places by burning them with fire.” Total losses support the claim: 12 houses, 3 huts, and 219 cardamom gardens burnt. 412 baskets of paddy and 75 baskets of pounded rice were either lost or destroyed. An additional 500 baskets of paddy in the fields went uncollected, and 6,000 viss of betel nut was not harvested because of the military activity.159
The next major operation did not occur until July and August during which LIB-603 patrolled the Htee Tha Saw area in Thandaung Township. It is the northernmost part of the township, located between the Thandaung – Leikhto Road, with the Kayah State border to the east. By the end of the operations, 7 of the 9 villages affected were firmly under Tatmadaw control. Forced labor and extortion, the residents reported, were rife, and severe travel restrictions made it very difficult for them to sell cash crops (cardamom, coffee, and betel nut) with which to purchase rice. At the time of the ERA request, these villagers had only 1-2 months supply of food, an insufficient amount to last until the next harvest. Villagers from Thee Pu Hta and Htee Thee Pu La went into hiding, and they remained so until the end of the year. The total number in need: 1,505 people (299 households) from 9 villages.160
158 Battalions under Southern Regional Command operated in Kyaukkyi Township on three occasions: (CIDKP- 2008-04; CIDKP-2008-07; CIDKP-2008-13). 159 KORD-2008-13. 160 KORD-2008-21.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 46
Indiscriminant attacks by MOC-10 and MOC-21 battalions in Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der areas of Tantabin Township forced 1,572 people (283 people) from 14 villages into hiding in early September. Operations during 2006 enabled Tatmadaw units to establish more military camps along the Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road. Units targeted the area on several occasions since then. On this occasion, the battalions prevented villagers from tending and harvesting crops, especially cardamom. Troops frequently fired assault rifles and mortars into suspected hidings sites, which, in conjunction with poor weather and insects, damaged 222 paddy fields (capable of producing more than 11,000 tins of paddy), and 5,660 viss of cardamom cultivated by 283 households. The KNLA is often able to warn the villages about Tatmadaw patrols, allowing residents to escape before soldiers arrive. But purchasing rice remains very difficult because of the frequent patrols. The journey requires 2-3 days, must be arranged in advance, and carried out “in the jungle,” as it is not safe to enter Kler Lah or Kaw Thay Der Towns.161
161 CIDKP-2008-16.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 47
Tatmadaw-induced forced migration was not limited to the areas discussed in this report. Civilians throughout eastern Burma/Myanmar had to flee military operations and, increasingly, “development” projects. In total, CSO fact-finding efforts determined that Tatmadaw clearance operations throughout eastern Burma/Myanmar led to the destruction, relocation, or abandonment of 886 villages between 2005-2008, raising the cumulative total to 3,386 (1996-2008).162
162 TBBC, Internal Displacement and International Law in Eastern Burma (Bangkok: TBBC, 2008), pp. 22-23, 19.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 48
The Northern Offensive accounts for a substantial percentage of the increase. By the end of 2008, 235 battalions had colonized large swathes of eastern Burma/Myanmar.163
163 KHRG, “Patrols, Movement Restrictions, and Forced Labor in Toungoo District” (28 September 2009), available at http://khrg.org/2009/09/khrg09f16/patrols-movement-restrictions-and-forced-labour-toungoo-district (accessed 23 January 2018). MOC-5 battalions, according to villagers, are responsible for these violations.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 49
The construction of new bases in cleared areas significantly reduces the likelihood that civilians will return, as the militarization of everyday life results in more travel restrictions, increased forced labor, and relentless demands for material support (money, food, and construction materials). In the areas most affected during the Northern Offensive, Tatmadaw battalions added 103 new bases: 26 in Toungoo District, 39 in
Nyaunglebin District, and 38 in Hpapun District.164
164 TBBC (2008), p. 15; TBBC, Protracted Displacement and Militarization in Eastern Burma (Bangkok: TBBC, 2009), pp. 29-48. For GPS coordinates, see FBR (2008), pp. 75-77.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 50
The proximity of these troops to villages increased civilian perceptions of overall threats to their safety and security throughout eastern Burma/Myanmar. TBBC survey data indicate that the threats steadily climbed between 2005-2009, with the most significant uptick being military patrols or landmines.
Threats to livelihoods either remained the same or only marginally improved despite the cessation of large-scale military operations throughout eastern Burma/Myanmar, including the areas the Tatmadaw targeted during the Northern Offensive.165
In light of the findings, TBBC concluded that, “The resilience of local coping strategies are showing signs of exhaustion. Social networks are increasingly constrained, which has adversely affected early warning signals of approaching troops. Given the Burmese government’s ongoing restrictions on humanitarian access into conflict affected areas, cross border aid [of which ERA is a part] delivered by community based organizations remains vital.”166
165 Table (TBBC 2009), p. 35. 166 TBBC (2009), p. 3. On civilian responses, see KHRG, Village Agency: Rural Rights and Resistance in a Militarized Karen State (Mae Sot: KHRG, 2008).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 51
Conclusion
The publication of this report marks the 10th anniversary of the end of the Northern Offensive (2006-2008). Tatmadaw operations, involving more than fifty battalions, sought to depopulate contested areas in northern Kayin State and the eastern Bago Region, as well as southwestern Kayah State—displacing tens and tens of thousands of people in the process.167 IHRC concluded that troops had committed war crimes and crimes against humanity against civilians during these operations. The KORD and CIDKP data support IHRC’s conclusion. The same data also add to them by documenting the “famine crimes” that occurred both prior to and during the Northern Offensive.
The KNLA claims to have engaged in 535 “clashes” with Tatmadaw units between 1 January and 30 June 2006, killing 154 and wounding 401.168 The KNLA reported 1,807 clashes from June 2006 to May 2007. According to its records, KNLA troops killed 424, wounded 1,248, and captured 16 Tatmadaw soldiers over this period. 169 No casualty data for the remainder of the Northern Offensive are available unfortunately, and these figures should be treated with caution given the source.170 Nevertheless, the numbers make a larger point: large-scale combat was not a defining feature of the offensive. (As the ERA reports make clear, the KNLA commonly engaged in firefights with Tatmadaw troops to enable IDPs to flee to safer areas.171) Nevertheless, at least 370 civilians died over the course of the offensive according to FBR records.172 The number very likely undercounts the total. FBR (like KORD and CIDKP) data relies heavily upon the IDPs they were able to locate and to assist. The total, while not insignificant, again makes the same point. The
167 According to KORD and CIDKP data, 18 infantry battalions and 57 light infantry battalions participated in attacks on civilians between 20042008. For a complete list, see ERA Index Tatmadaw Battalions participating in the Northern Offensive (2006-2008) in Eastern Burma/Myanmar. 168 Karen National Union, “Summary Report on Military Activities in KNLA Areas for the Period from January 31 to June 30, 2006” (although the KNLA battle statistics aggregate DKBA and Army casualties, clashes with the DKBA were uncommon in these areas). Cited in Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 3, para. 37. Mahn Sha, then the General Secretary of the KNU, provide slightly higher figures. The KNLA, he said, lost 12 soldiers and suffered 14 wounded during the first-half of 2006, whereas 185 Tatmadaw soldiers died and 448 were wounded. “Interview: Mahn Sha, General Secretary, Karen National Union (KNU),” Jane’s Intelligence Review (1 December 2006). 169 KNLA, “Summary Report on Military Activities in KNLA Areas for Period from June 1, 06 to May 31, 2007, (Clashes with SPDC-A),” 30 June 2007. Cited in Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 3, para. 37. 170 Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 1. The source, a US army officer with extensive understanding of the conflicts explains why the figures are so lopsided: “The Burma Army is almost always on the losing end of clashes with the KNLA in terms of casualties. In an average encounter, the Burma Army will suffer ten casualties and the KNLA will suffer one; or the Army will lose ten and the KNLA will lose none. I have witnessed small numbers of KNLA soldiers, sometimes as few as two or three, repel the advance of Army columns ten-times as large. This type of situation occurs frequently in Karen State.” Clinical Expert Declaration, Expert 1, para. 25. 171 FBR (2008), p. 17. 172 Convict porters did die in significant numbers relative to the total forced to support Tatmadaw operations, however. FBR documented the use of more than 2,200 convict porters during the Offensive, of which at least 225 died (i.e., a little more than 1 in 10). FBR (2008), pp. 13, 28. KHRG cites a higher total, estimating that Tatmadaw battalions employed between 3,000-5,000 convict porters during 2005-2006 alone. MOC-10, under Southern Regional Command, MOC-15, and LID-101 relied heavily upon convict porters for operations in Tantabin Township, Mone Township, and Lu Thaw Township, north of Hpapun Town, over this period. KHRG, Less than Human: Convict Porters in the 2005-2006 Northern Karen State Offensive (Mae Sot, Thailand: KHRG, 2006), pp. 5-6. The practice was not limited to the Northern Offensive. It dates back decades and battalions continued to utilize convict porters are subsequent offensives. See, for example, Human Rights Watch, Dead Man Walking: Convict Porters on the Front Lines in Eastern Burma (New York: HRW, 2011).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 52
Tatmadaw’s strategic intent was not to kill large numbers of civilians, as some have claimed.173 Rather, it was to starve villagers out of contested areas, either into locations where Tatmadaw troops could exert control over their daily lives or towards the Thailand-Burma/Myanmar border.
ERA Cash Disbursements by Township in Kilogram Equivalents (2004-2008)174
Township District Villages Households People ERA ERA Affected Affected Affected (paddy) (rice) Thandaung & Toungoo 306 9,926 55,826 1,758,519 2,679,648 Tantabin Mone Nyaunglebin 174 5,432 37,582 1,183,833 1,803,936 Kyaukkyi Nyaunglebin 94 4,410 32,961 1,038,271 1,582,128 Shwegyin Nyaunglebin 133 n.a. 26,370 830,655 1,265,760 Hpapun Hpapun 127 4,791 35,882 1.130,283 1,722,336 Pasaung & Bawlakhe 147 3,674 19,987 629,590 959,376 Pruso Total 981 28,233 208,608 5,440,868 10,013,184
The cumulative totals demonstrate that Tatmadaw battalions purposefully destroyed and/or confiscated civilian food supplies in a massively widespread and systematic manner. The prima facie evidence further demonstrates that the counter-insurgency clearance operations were knowingly carried out “pursuant to or in furtherance of State or organizational policy,” satisfying the mens rea requirement for mass atrocity crimes under the 1998 Rome Statute.
Tatmadaw efforts to starve civilians out of the mountains, a form of 2nd-degree faminiogenic conduct, did not end in 2008, however. Clearance operations continued to target civilians in Thandaung, Kyaukkyi and Hpapun Townships well into 2009, albeit on a much smaller scale.175Artillery attacks and roving patrols in these townships forced approximately 20,000 people to relocate to hiding sites in the mountains, raising the total number of IDPs to an estimated 60,000.176
173 Cf. Guy Horton, Dying Alive: A Legal Assessment of Human Rights Violations in Burma (Chiang Mai: Images Asia, Inc., 2005). 174 The cash disbursements, paid in kyat, are equivalent to the local market price of 1 tin of paddy/person/month for 3 months. Totals for Thandaung and Tantabin as well as Pasaung and Pruso Townships include data from 2004- 2005 operations. Shwegyin Township lacks complete household data, and the figures, which do not appear in the appendices, are drawn from: 2005 ERA Financial Summary; 2006 ERA Financial Tracker; 2007 ERA Financial Tracker; and 2008 ERA Financial Tracker (on file with author). 175 TBBC (2009), p. 19. 176 Ibid., p. 3.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 53
IDP Figures (2009)177
Regions and IDPs in IDPs in IDPs in Total States Hiding Relocation Sites Ceasefire Areas IDPs Eastern Bago 21,000 23,500 0 44,500 Karen State 49,500 10,900 44,500 104,900 Total 70,500 34,400 44,500 149,400
Large-scale military operations ended following a major offensive in 2010-2011. Some positive developments have occurred since then. The 2012 ceasefire between the Tatmadaw and the Karen National Union (KNU), which had fought for greater autonomy for more than sixty years by this point, froze large-scale troop movements, including seasonal operations targeting civilian populations.178 Multi-year trust-building initiatives, made possible with generous international funding followed, additionally raised hopes that the cessation of hostilities would produce a “peace-dividend.”179 Some signs indicate that such a dividend exists, at least for some people in some areas.180
However, the sustainability of the peace dividend remains an open question. Observers who underscore the fragility of the situation point to a number of issues. The multi-party national peace process remains stalled.181 Small-scale skirmishes involving Tatmadaw and KNLA troops are common occurrences, landmine contamination poses a major threat, and the epidemic of land seizures further undermine rural livelihoods.182 For these reasons, it is not surprising that nearly 100,000 refugees, most of them Karen, continue to live in the refugee camps in Thailand. Sally Thompson the Executive Director of The Border Consortium (TBC), an international humanitarian organization formerly known as the Thailand Burma Border Consortium, explained: “There are no pull factors in the southeast [of Myanmar]. The peace process is going very slowly, the army is still in the villages in the southeast, people’s mistrust of the army goes very deep and it will take years for that to be turned around. People are looking for changes on the ground.”183 For tens of
177 Ibid., pp. 22, 54. 178 Health conditions remained poor and food security lacking during 2011. The survey found that hunger was moderate to high in more than 13% of the households. More tellingly, 47% of all households faced serious food shortages in September, peaking during the weeks prior to the harvest. W.W. Davis et al., “Health and Human Rights in Karen State, Eastern Myanmar,” PLoS One 10, no. 8 (2015). A 2012 survey reported similar findings. See, W.W. Davis et al., “Militarization, Human Rights Violations, and Community Responses as Determinants of Health in Southeastern Myanmar: Results of a Cluster Survey,” Conflict and Health 9, no. 32 (2015). 179 Myanmar Peace Support Initiative, Lessons Learned from MPSI’s Work Supporting the Peace Process in Myanmar (Yangon: MPSI, 2014). 180 Adam Burke, Nicola Williams, Patrick Barron, Kim Jolliffe, and Thomas Carr, The Contested Areas of Myanmar: Subnational Conflict, Aid, and Development (Yangon: Asian Foundation, 2017); Kim Jolliffe, Ceasefires, Governance, and Development: The Karen National Union in Times of Change (Yangon: Asia Foundation, 2017). 181 Humanitarian Country Team (United Nations and Partners), Myanmar: Humanitarian Needs Overview 2017 (Yangon: UNOCHA, 2016). 182 Displacement Solutions, Land Rights and Mine Action in Myanmar (Yangon: DS and Norwegian People’s Aid, 2014); Human Rights Watch, ‘The Farmer Becomes the Criminal’: Human Rights and Land Confiscation in Karen State (New York: HRW, 2016). 183 Ron Corben, “Myanmar Refugees in Thai Camps Face Repatriation Challenges” (11 May 2017), available at https://www.voanews.com/a/myanmar-refugees-thai-camps-repatriation-challenges/3847329.html (28 January 2018).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 54
thousands of people who remained displaced in this region, these changes have yet to occur.184 The armed conflict and the waves of forced migration it produced in the past thus remains a defining condition of the present.
Commanding officers, such as the three that IHRC identified are, of course, are unlikely to face domestic criminal charges for their actions during the Northern Offensive despite the compelling prima facie evidence of crimes against humanity and war crimes—at least for the foreseeable future.185 The same is true for the lower-ranking officers and ordinary soldiers whose names appear throughout the KORD and CIDKP documents contained in Appendix 3. Article 445 in Chapter 14 of the 2008 Constitution contains a controversial immunity clause.186 The clause states, “All policy guidelines, laws, rules, regulation, notifications and declarations of the State Law and Order Restoration Council and the State Peace and Development Council or actions, rights, and responsibilities of the State Law and Order Restoration Council and the State Peace and Development Council shall devolve on the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. No proceeding shall be instituted against the said Councils or any member thereof of any member of the Government, in respect to any [emphasis added] act done in the execution of their respective duties.”187 The International Center for Transitional Justice notes that the clause does not specify which acts are covered by the amnesty. The ambiguity opens the possibility that it may not apply to “any act done in violation of national or international law,” which would presumably fall outside the scope of their official duties.188 Numerous structural mechanisms that perpetuate impunity remain in place, however. These obstacles, including the absence of an independent judiciary, make any effort to legally test the scope of the immunity clause impossible. The current government’s support for the Tamadaw’s widespread and systematic violence towards the minority Rohingya Muslim population, the severity of which has prompted the U.N. High Commission for Human Rights to call for an investigation by the International Criminal Court, makes that point abundantly clear.189 The protracted crisis situation in Kachin State and northern
184 TBC conducted the last major IDP survey in Southeast Burma/Myanmar in 2014. Its researchers estimated that approximately 110,000 were still displaced at that time. TBC, Protection and Security Concerns in Southeast Burma/Myanmar (Bangkok: TBC, 2014), 1. More current data is not available. 185 One country expert with significant human rights legal expertise pointed out that this situation could change. He noted that the “scapegoating” of soldiers, typically at the lower level, has occurred, particularly with regard to the violation on the ban on all forms of forced labor. But a power struggle could result in the targeting of high-ranking officials, as was the case with the arrest of former Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and the purge of his supporters. Similarly, he continued, the governments of several Latin American countries (e.g. Guatemala and Chile) successfully prosecuted high-ranking military officials several decades after the fact for their role in mass atrocities. Anonymous (personal communication, 14 April 2018). 186 Some scholars called for a “qualified amnesty” in 2006, as the Northern Offensive was unfolding, to break the political deadlock. The immunity clause, as the text indicates, went much further and remains a key obstacle to transitional justice in any meaningful form. Roman David and Ian Holliday, “Set the Junta Free: Pre-Transitional Justice in Myanmar’s Democratization,” Australian Journal of Political Science 41, no. 1 (2006): 91-105. For a revised and updated discussion, see Ian Holliday, Burma Redux: Global Justice and the Quest for Political Reform in Myanmar (New York: Columbia University Press, 2012). 187 Cited in International Center for Transitional Justice, Impunity Prolonged: Burma and its 2008 Constitution (New York: ICTJ, 2009), p. 33. 188 Ibid., p. 33. 189 U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, “Special Session of the Human Rights Council on the Human Rights Situation of the Minority Rohingya Muslim Population and Other Minorities in the Rakhine State of Myanmar” (5 December 2017), available at http://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=22487&LangID=E (accessed 23
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 55
Shan State are less well covered in the media as a consequence. But Tatmadaw battalions have targeted civilian populations and committed the same abuses described in this report and the IHRC one before it since the collapse of the 2011 ceasefire.190
Despite the unlikelihood of punitive justice through criminal legal action, Karen CSOs and other relevant actors should develop clear and consistent policies and procedures for securely preserving all of the human rights documentation gathered to date.191 The documentation could provide the basis for reparations. Reparative justice entails the public acknowledgement the wrongdoings that occurred, the harms victims suffered, and possibly include material benefits of some kind.192 The documentation could also provide the basis for a truth commission, that is, an official body created to investigate and report on patterns of past human rights abuses. Such a process, while inevitably imperfect, is widely regarded by survivors, in addition to experts, as an essential step towards national reconciliation.193 This report offers a modest contribution towards both goals.
February 2018). Despite ongoing conversations, significant security sector reform is unlikely to occur for the foreseeable future. For recommendations regarding the official use of lethal force, see IHRC, Policy Memorandum: Preventing Indiscriminate Attacks and Wilful Killings of Civilians by the Myanmar Military (Cambridge: Harvard University Law School, 2014). 190 Mandy Sadan, “Myanmar: Ongoing Conflict in Kachin State,” Southeast Asian Affairs (2015): 246-259; United States Institute for Peace, “Burma’s Northern Shan State and Prospects for Peace” (29 September 2017), https://www.usip.org/publications/2017/09/burmas-northern-shan-state-and-prospects-peace (accessed 28 April 2018); OCHA, “Myanmar: IDP Sites in Kachin and northern Shan States (Sep 2017), available at http://www.refworld.org/pdfid/59eefd854.pdf (accessed 28 April 2018). 191 For further discussion, see: Antonio González Quintana, Archival Policies in the Protection of Human Rights (Paris: International Council on Archives, 2009); U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Report on the Seminar on Experiences of Archives as a Means to Guarantee the Right to Truth A/HRC/17/21 (Geneva: UNHCR, 2011). 192 Modest compensation to enhance or to develop new livelihoods is common, for example. For further discussion, see: “The Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law” U.N. General Assembly Resolution 60/147 (16 December 2005); Carla Ferstman, Mariana Goetz, and Alan Stephens, eds., Reparations for Victims of Genocide, War Crimes, and Crimes Against Humanity: Systems in Place and Systems in the Making (London: Brill, 2009). 193 See, e.g.: R. Rotberg and D. Thompson, Truth v. Justice: The Morality of Truth Commissions (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2010); Patricia Hayner, Unspeakable Truths: Transitional Justice and the Challenge of Truth Commissions (London: Routledge, 2010); Jonathon Doak, “The Therapeutic Dimension of Transitional Justice: Emotional Repair and Victim Satisfaction in International Trials and Truth Commissions,” International Criminal Law Review 11, no. 2 (2011): 263-298.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 56
Appendix 1 Tatmadaw Command Structure
The following information is excerpted in full from the IHRC’s 2014 Legal Memorandum: War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity in Eastern Myanmar.
Regional Military Commands
RMCs are responsible for military operations in precisely defined geographic areas. Within their assigned territories, RMCs maintain permanent bases staff by battalions under their direct control, often referred to as “garrison battalions.” Within and RMC, garrison battalions are split into several Special Operations Commands (SOCs) that are generally identified by the location of the SOC’s headquarters base.
Battalions are identified as either Infantry Battalions (IBs) or Light Infantry Battalions (LIBs). Although there may have been historical differences in the structure and function of IBs and LIBs, during the Offensive they were functionally identical and remain so today. IBs and LIBs are officially to have 826 soldiers, but at the time of the Offensive were severely understaffed, with many having fewer than 200 soldiers.
Southern Command is the RMC that was responsible for Bago Division and parts of Kayin State north of Hpapun Town during the Offensive. During that time, Southern Command maintained Tactical Operations Commands (TOCs) headquartered in Baw Ga Li (Kler Lah in the Karen language), Kyaukkyi, Shwegyin, and Thandaung (or Thandaunggyi). Southern Command’s garrison battalions during the Offensive included IB 20, IB 30, IB 39, IB 48, IB 53, IB 57, IB 73, IB 75, IB 124, LIB 349, LIB 31, LIB 439, LIB 440, LIB 589, LIB 590, and LIB 599.
Combat Divisions
Combat divisions operate alongside—but are distinct from—the nationwide network of RMCs and garrison battalions. Combat divisions take the form of Light Infantry Divisions (LID) and Military Operations Commands (MOCs). LIDs and MOCs are headquartered at locations throughout the country, but rather than being responsible for proximate territories, they are deployed to the area of active conflict. LIDs and MOCs have been sent most often to join in counterinsurgency operations against insurgent groups, although they have, at times, been deployed to help suppress political unrest in urban areas. Like LIBs and IBs, there is no functional difference between LIDs and MOCs.
Within the Army chain of command, LIDs and MOCs report directly to the General Staff Office. During combat operations in the field, they generally come under the control of the RMC that is responsible for the area. However, at times, orders are
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 57
also issued directly from central command to field units, bypassing the formal chain of command.
Each LID or MOC is normally comprised of ten battalions that may be IBs, LIBs, or both. Within an LID or MOC, battalions are divided into three TOCs, each having three or four battalions. Unlike SOCs, which are labeled by the location of their headquarters, TOCs are identified by numbers—1, 2, or 3.
LID 66 was one of at least seven combat divisions deployed to eastern Myanmar at the outset of the Offensive. During the Offensive, LID 66 was headquartered in Pyay, Bago Division and was comprised of IB 1, IB 11, IB 14, IB 35, IB 80, LIB 4, LIB 5, LIB 6, LIB 10, and LIB 108. These battalions were divided into three TOCs, referred to as TOC 66-1, TOC 66-2, and TOC 66-3.194
194 International Human Rights Law Clinic [IHRC], Legal Memorandum: War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity in Eastern Myanmar (Cambridge: Harvard Law School, 2014a), pp. 21-23. See also, Documentation and Research Department of the Network for Democracy and Development, Civil and Military Administrative Echelon of State Peace and Development Council in Burma (Mae Sot, Thailand: NDD, 2007), pp. 105-130; Myanmar Tatmadaw Military Command Structure 2002-2010.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 58
Appendix 2 Destroyed, Relocated, or Abandoned Villages (Thandaung Township)
2006-2007
Bu Hsa Khee Per Lo De Dah Kho Ber Kha Lay Kho Tha Kwee Soe May Daw Kho Ma Pweh Kho S’Wa Daw Kho Khu Ler Der Law Bee Ler Lae Kher Der Kah Phu Mu Der Hsaw Wa Der Oo Per Lae Kher Der Kho Thaw Khaw Saw Thay Khu Der Blah Khee Lae Kher Der Tha Saw Law Kho Ha To Per Maw Tu Der Maw Thay Der Ka Ta Khee Tha Aye Khee Thay Mu Der Paw Pha Kaw Law Khee Klay Khee Kho Haw Der Lay Oh Lo Ga Mu Doh Bu Khee Haw Lu Der Si Daw Kho Kher Der Wah Soe Sho Kho Pway Baw Der Hu Mu Der Hi Daw Khaw Pwi Khee Saw Mu Der Ler Klah Kho Khee Khaw Mee Kho Wa Mi Per Kho Klaw Mee Der Soe Ser Thay Ya Yu Yer Lo Phaw Pho Lo Plo Mu Der Pha Der Kah Thay Gi La Pwee Lo Si Kheh Der Pha Weh Maw Khu Der Ta Per Khee Khaw Htu Hto Ma Wa Khaw Htee Hsa Khee Plo Baw Der
Total: 64195
2007-2008
Pha Weh Saw Law Kho Wa Mi Per Kho Hsaw Wa Der Kay Law Khee Lae Kho Der Kah Saw Mu Der Thay Khu Der Ma Wa Khaw Thaw Khaw Saw Pway Baw Der Klay Khee Ka Mu Do Ka Ta Khee Si Daw Kho Kho Khee Di Dah Kho Thay Ya Yu Bu Hsa Khee Hi Daw Khaw Ma Pwae Kho Lae Kho Der Kho Tha Kwee Soe Sho Ser Khaw Mee Kho Ler Kher Der Tha Bu Khee Wah Soe Pha Der Kah Pho Mu Der Thay Aye Khee Htee Thee Pu De Way La Khaw Sa Wa Daw Kho Ha Htoe Per Htee Pu Der
Total: 36196
195 TBBC (2007), Appendix 3, pp. 69-70. 196 TBBC (2008), Appendix 2, p. 56.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 59
Appendix 3 ERA Reports
Burnt remains of a home in Bukhee Village, Toungoo District (FBR 2008)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 60
Appendix A Thandaung and Tantabin Townships (Toungoo District, Karen State)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 61
Report Number KORD-2004-02
Date Submitted: 31 December 2003
Location: East and West of the Day Loh River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho West Day Loh
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 17 558 3,307
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command MOC Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions IB-53, IB-75, IB-124 Infantry Battalions Other Military Strategy 1
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command MOC Light Infantry Division LID-55 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-511 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 62
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. MOC n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 63
KORD-2004-2 ERA Request Summary 31 December 2003
Demographics
3,307 people, 558 households, 17 villages in Thandaung Township KNU calls: Daw Pha Kho Township of Taw Oo
Rationale
3 SPDC battalions established a new base camp on the Karenni State border, while frontline troops searched and destroyed villagers’ crops and property from September-November 2003.
At least 58 paddy farms destroyed and at least 58 tins of rice stolen during this period. Over 100 cardamon gardens abandoned. Anecdotal reports of widespread theft of property and paddy.
Reports of SPDC troops opening fire on villagers in at least 2 villages, but no one was reported injured
Another 3 villages with 119 households (655 people) affected by this offensive, but KORD reports they are not in as urgent need as those identified in this report.
General Description of SDPC Actions
Location:
East and West of the Day Loh River (see sketch map)
Date: 4/10/03-30/10/03 (27 days)
Perpetrators:
Military Strategy 1: Commander Khin Maung Oo - G 1: Commander Tin Bo Aung - G 2: Commander Thet Oo
Battalions - IB-75: Commander Nyi Nyi Thain, 2nd Tin Maung Hla - IB-53: Commander Aung Kyaw Htay, 2nd Aung Kyaw Min - IB-124: Commander Kyi Win, 2nd Hla Htun
Description
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 64
Battalions entered and “strategically created disturbance and trouble to the villages” in the areas west and east of the Day Loh River. Similar actions date back to August 2003.
IB-53 entered area and constructed new base camp near Kler Pa Hti Village. Construction began 1/8-27/8/03. (Goal to enable front line battalions “to be able to move up and down as quickly as possible around the area during their operation against KNU.”) Began patrols.
IB-124 established their front line camps at Tha Aye Hta, Sheh Lor, Ler To Day, and Pay Mu Kho along the Karenni State border. Began patrols.
IB-39: Commander Win Soe and 2nd Kha Maung Win entered area and changed duty on 4/10/03.
5/10/03 IB-124 left the camps to head to Sho Kho and Ma Bwe Kho Villages and began operations. Villagers from Di Dah Kho, K’ta Khee, Ka Mu Doh, and Kay Law Khee fled to hide in the jungle.
13/10/03 IB-124 Troops moved to Kaw Mi Kho.
16/10/03 IB-124 Troops moved to Way Lar Kaw Village and began patrols. Villagers not able to return and harvest their crops in time “because they are afraid they might be caught and killed or tortured by the troops, therefore, instead of return for the harvest they kept hiding in the forest.” Crops damaged by weather and eaten by wild animals and troops. 58 farms affected that they know of. 58 tins of cached rice found and removed.
18/10/04 IB-124 arrives at They Ya Yu areas.
N.d. Provides supplies and ammunition to IB-75 and IB-124.
20/10/03 IB-53 arrives at Par Weh.
23/10/03 IB-53 arrives at They Ya Yu where meets IB-124
IB-75
6/10/03 IB-75 Column 1 left camp and arrives in Ler Khe Der Tha and Ler Ker Der Kah to carry out search and destroy missions.
12/10/03 IB-75 moves to Kaw Mi Kho villages to do the same.
Combined operations
23/10/03 Combined battalions begin joint search-and-destroy missions from village to village: Par Weh, Ler Ker Der Kho, Ler Ker Der Kah, Thaw Kaw Saw, Kaw Lo Kho, Ler Ker Der Thar, and Par Der Kah were in great fear. Destruction of cardamom, particularly hard (after rice), since it’s a cash crop. When they are short of food they sell it to buy rice, seeds fetch a good price. One of their key survival strategies.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 65
24/10/03 IB-39, Column 1 (Company Commander Myint Kyi) enters They Gi La and who shoot at villagers near a paddy hut, but no one was wounded.
28/10/03 IB-39 Column 2 (Capt. Khin Maung Win) fires on villagers near Htee Ya Hta and They Gi La area.
Background on incidents [Relevant excerpts]
“The SPDC recognizes the villagers in this area as the hard core of KNU.”
“According to the instruction given by the Southern Military Command, Commander General Tin Aye, these troops in the operations area have full authority to search and destroy all the hiding places, working sites, and food of those who keep hiding and don’t face them. They can do everything as they like.”
According to the information from the reliable source the commander of (Ta Pa Ka) Southern Military Command led by Tin Aye had instructed his under control troop of (Sa Ba Ha) Military Strategy 1 commander Khin Maung Oo to give instruction to every battalions under his control to destroy all the paddy farms, paddy or rice barns of the hidden villages wherever they found.”
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Households Total 1 Thay Ya Juh 36 232 2 Thaw Ka Saw 20 112 3 Lei Ker Der Ka 21 110 4 Pa Der Ka 25 148 5 Ka Muh Doh 20 123 6 Ma Bwe Kho ?1 207 7 Kaw Mi Kho 26 145 8 Kay Law Khee ?0 180 9 Pa Wa ?8 331 10 Sho Kho ?4 470 11 Wee La Khee 22 114 12 Dee Die Kho 23 124 13 Leh Kah Der Tha 29 194 14 Ma Wa Khaw 13 75 15 Ka Ta Khee 30 178 16 Saw Loe Kho 24 158 17 Leh Kah Der Klo 66 406 18 Htee Thee Pu 48 251 19 Kler Pa Hti 31 186 20 Kler Der Kah 218 677 3,962
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 66
Total in urgent need of food
No. Township Village Households Total 4 Daw Pa Kho Pa Der Ka 25 148 5 Daw Pa Kho Ka Muh Do 20? 123 6 Daw Pa Kho Ma Bwe Kho 4? 207 7 Daw Pa Kho Kaw Mi Kho 2? 145 8 Daw Pa Kho Kay Law Khee 3? 180 9 Daw Pa Kho Pa Wa 4? 331 10 Daw Pa Kho Sho Kho 8? 470 11 Daw Pa Kho Wee La Khee 2? 114 12 Daw Pa Kho Dee Die Kho 2? 124 13 Daw Pa Kho Leh Kah Der Tha 2? 194 14 Daw Pa Kho Ma Wa Khaw 1? 75 15 Daw Pa Kho Ka Ta Khee 3? 178 16 Daw Pa Kho Saw Loe Kho 6? 406 17 Daw Pa Kho Leh Kah Der Kho 66 406 558 3,307
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 67
ERA Distribution Summary 24 March 2004
Everyone receives aid as requested. Note: 1,141 boys and 1,147 girls under 10 years of age, 509 males and 510 females over 10 years old (total: 3,307 people, 558 families)
Mission required 44 days (3 February – 17 March 2004)
Relief team spotted by SPDC while crossing Saw Hta - Kyaukgyi road near Tha Dah Der. Brief skirmish, but no one was injured.
Relief delivered in 2 locations over four days. Recipients had to walk between 30 minutes and 5 hours to reach distribution points.
Situation
SPDC has shifted attention further south since aid delivered, along the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road. In December, 2 SPDC bulldozers destroyed by KNLA, which resulted in reprisals, especially forced labor to reconstruct the road to the Karenni State border by hand. LIB-511 and Light Infantry Division 55 were reported as having burned houses in Maw Too Der Village during this period.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 68
Description of Distribution
Situation report for Taw Oo District area - One group [of Total] under SPDC control, the other not. Former: forced labor, extortion, portering, mine-sweeping and other human rights violations daily. Latter: great insecurity, lack of shelter and food (1 day of labor = 300 Kyat)
Can purchase food and other goods in three places (Kaw Thay Der, Kler La, and Thandaung). Travel requires knowledge of SPDC troop movements. To go to Thandaung requires travel pass from village headman. Low quality rice costs 3,000/tin, 4,500-5,000 in areas where distribution of aid occurred.
SPDC Movements against Villagers
Received reports of combined troops: LIB-117 (Aung Thein Oo,) a group of KPNLF and a group of KNSO [Karenni National Solidarity Organization] (Ta Mla Htoo) with 4 companies totaling about 140 soldiers. Began patrols around Bu Khee, Bu Hsa Khee, Tha Ae Khee, Klay Khee, Kho Khee, and Ha Pto Per. Villagers in these areas fled.
Total report having fled 3 times already from beginning of 2004 to time of aid distribution. Severe food shortages. “A Klay Khee villager said, ‘many of the villagers have to eat the spoiled rice already, as a result from the improper cultivation from last year and the continuous rains in this year.”
Total are not able to cut and clear upland fields because of patrols, which will have an impact next year.
17/2/2004 [The relief team] meet[s] four families in Hiw Daw Khaw area. They fled after reprisals for KNU destruction of bulldozers. “Then the SPDC camp commander from Kler Lah instructed that all of the villages near the incident area have to move away from the area. They will treat anyone as they like if they found in the area. Therefore, the Klay So Khee and Ga Mu Der villagers left away from their villages move to jungle area.”
A Ga Mu Der villager said, “In the present situation, the living of those under the SPDC control are like living without a life.”
“On this trip we found that many villagers are being displaced and are fleeing in jungle and some in other villages. We received specific information of the human rights violations made by the SPDC troops in the area. We received information of the SPDC troops are sending food supplies and ammunition to frontline areas and even there still is fighting. In particular, we ourselves experienced that there was fighting while we were crossing Mu Theh – Saw Hta Road there was fighting. The second experience when we first entered Taw Oo District area, we had to wait for many days before we could continue our journey because of the SPDC movements. On these reasons, it is very difficult to understand why the SDPC calls for cease-fire talk. If they call for real cease-fire talk, I think the military movements should be stopped.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 69
Report Number KORD-2004-06
Date Submitted: 15 April 2004
Location: Southern Daw Pha Kho Township and Northern Htaw Ta Htu Township
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo n.a. n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho n.a. Htaw Ta Htu
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 22 750 4,457
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-55 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-94, LIB-117, LIB-508, LIB-509, LIB-511, LIB- 589 Infantry Battalions Other Tactical Command 551, KNPLF, KNSO
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 70
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 71
KORD-2004-6 ERA Summary 15 April 2004
Demographics
4,457 people, 750 households, 22 villages in Thandaung Township. KNU: part of southern Daw Pha Kho and northern Htaw Ta Htu [Tantabin] Townships in Taw Oo District.
Location: adjacent to Karenni State border, north of Bu Kaw Kee and south of the Taungoo - Demawso Road.
Rationale:
SPDC and KNSO patrols in northern Daw Pha Kho in late 2003 resulted in destruction of paddy fields and cardamom plantations (see KORD-2004-2), for which aid distributed in February.
This request due to another round of patrols further south during January and February after crops harvested –although it is noted that these villagers also had an unspecified amount of fields ruined during the first round of patrols.
2 entire villages and 13 shelters (at minimum) burnt by SPDC and KNSO troops during more recent patrols.
1 villager killed and at least 2 caught in crossfire of skirmishes between KNLA and SPDC/KNSO.
SPDC/KNSO demands on villagers for food supplies resulted in loss of at least 1,500 baskets of paddy, 100 chickens, and 50 viss of cardamom seed.
16 villagers captured and held hostage by troops for more than a week before released.
Patrols passed through further 3 villages and 230 households, but were not forced to flee and assessed as not being in need of ERA.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 72
ERA Request n.d. February 2004
Description of SPDC actions
15 December 2003 – 16 February 2004 Occurred in eastern part of Klay Lo in Daw Pha Kho Township and Kho Khee area of Htaw Ta Htu Township in Taw Oo District.
Group of perpetrators (with commanders)
From Tactical Command 551 under the control of Division 55 Tactical Commander: Lt. Col Nyi Lin G-2, Maj. Kyaw Thu Ya G-3, Maj. Kyaw Moe
1. LIB-94, BC Cap. Tin Maung Myint with 2nd BC Cap. Aung Naing 2. LIB-117, BC Maj. Aung Thein Oo with 2nd BC Cap. Htun Shwe 3. LIB-511, BC Aung Kyaw Moe with 2nd BC Kyaw Kyaw Win 4. LIB-508, BC Myo Kyi with 2nd BC Cap. Htan Hlan Baik 5. LIB-589, BC Lt. Col. Thein Htun with 2nd BC Maj. Mya Thu 6. LIB-509, BC Nyunt Win
Description of incident
Tactical Command 551 from Light Infantry Division 55 to Aung Myin military camp on Karenni border.
LIBs (above) with KNPLF and KNSO troops operated in eastern part of Klay Lo and Kho Khee in Daw Pha Kho and Taw Ta Tu townships.
17/12/03 Entered and patrolled Sho Kho areas.
18/12/03- [Battalions not specified] divided into 2 groups: a) entered and patrolled Pwi Khee, Koe Haw Der, and Haw Lu Der areas; b) Maw Too Der, Ber Kha Lay Kho, Blah Khee, Thay Mu Der areas (The same troops that burned Maw Too Der Village 19/12/03). Troops burned and destroyed food and belongings except for what they took for themselves. Group b later moved on to Oo Per, Maw Khu Der, Htee Hsa Per, Thay Gi La areas.
16/1/04 at 2 pm - Fired 5 mortars and small guns at Htee Hsa Per villagers while they were in their homes. One villager hit and died. Others escaped. At 3 pm they burnt the upper part of Htee Hsa Per Village.
17/1/04 They burnt the lower part.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 73
LIB-117 and LIB-94 entered Shoe Ser, Wah Soe, Hi Daw Khaw, Kho Khee, Klay Khee, Thay Khu Der, Ha Htoe Per, Tha Aya Khee, Bu Hsa Khee, Bu Khee, Tha Kwee Soe to conduct operations in area.
25/1/04 Entered Shoe Ser and engaged KNU troops at Shoe Set.
26/1/04, 2 companies from Column 2 from LIB-117 entered and patrolled Bu Hsa Khee, Tha Kwee Soe and then on to Bu Khee area.
27/1/04 LIB-94 entered and patrolled Shoe Ser, Wah Soe areas where villagers were hiding.
4/2/04 LIB-511 returned to Htee Hsa Per area.
6/2/04 LIB-511 went to Thay Gi La area and then slowly moved back to Kler La – Mo Khee Road to Tha Aye Hta camp.
N.d. LIB-117 and LIB-94 with KNPLF and KNSO troops entered Kler La – Mo Khee Road and moved to Kler La – Bu Hsa Khee Road to Bu Hsa Khee camp. Patrolled: Bu Hsa Khee, Tha Kwee Soe, and Bu Khee.
7/2/04 – [These] troops captured 2 villagers from Tha Aye Khee: Saw [Name Redacted] (age 50) and Naw [Name Redacted] (age 28) to act as guides.
8/2/04 Entered Klay Khee and captured 14 students and required them to come.
9/2/04 Encountered KNU troops in area and stayed in Kho Khee.
16/2/04 Released those captured. Troops returned to Hi Daw Khaw, Shoe Ser, and then along the road to Pay Mu Kho (Aung Myin) on Karenni State border.
Operations lasted 64 days total and involved SPDC, KNSO, KNPLF troops.
Villagers from 25 villages in eastern part of Klay Lo in Daw Pha Kho Townships and Kho Khee area in Taw Ta Tu Townships had to flee homes and hide in the jungle. Troops burnt their homes, destroyed their paddy farms and food stockpiles. Total: 2,000 viss of betel nut, 5 pigs, 31 choppers, 60 viss of salt, 1 casting net, 3 percussion lock firearms, 1 air gun, 50 viss of fish paste, 12 cooking pots, 30 dishes, 100 spoons, 6 pairs of slippers, 50 viss of cardamom seed, 2 mats, 2 tea kettles, 2 tea cups, 15 blankets, 2 hammocks, 400 tins of rice, 1,559 baskets of paddy, 100 chickens, and 13 homes burnt.
Background reason of incident:
Villages under control of KNU. The SPDC attacked them by the same means to attack the KNU because the SPDC regard the villagers as their enemies.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 74
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 n.a. Maw Khu Der 35 180 2 n.a. Oo Per 23 120 3 n.a. Htee Hsa Per 45 240 4 n.a. Ber Kha Lay Kho 69 458 5 n.a. Blah Khee 32 178 6 n.a. Thay Gi La 13 92 7 n.a. Thay Mu Der 40 198 8 n.a. Maw Too Der 37 210 9 n.a. Pwi Khee 32 155 10 n.a. Haw Lu Der 25 145 11 n.a. Ko Haw Der 56 324 12 n.a. Klay Khee 34 240 13 n.a. Bu Khee 22 160 14 n.a. Tha Aye Khee 36 250 15 n.a. Ha Htoe Per 43 264 16 n.a. Wah Soe 32 177 17 n.a. Hi Daw Khaw 51 250 18 n.a. Sho Ser 23 165 19 n.a. Thay Kho Der 15 90 20 n.a. Kho Khee 43 256 21 n.a. Bu Hsa Khee 31 185 22 n.a. Tha Kwee Soe 23 120 23 n.a. Klay Soe Khee 62 359 24 n.a. Ga Mu Der 35 199 25 n.a. Kaw Thay Der 133 914 990 5,929
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 75
Total in Urgent Need of Food
No. Township Village Households Total 1 Daw Pha Kho May Khu Der 35 180 2 Daw Pha Kho Oo Per 23 120 3 Daw Pha Kho Htee Hsa Per 45 240 4 Daw Pha Kho Ber Kha Lay Kho 69 458 5 Daw Pha Kho Blah Khee 32 178 6 Daw Pha Kho Thay Gi La 13 92 7 Daw Pha Kho Thay Mu Der 40 198 8 Daw Pha Kho Maw Too Der 37 210 9 Daw Pha Kho Pwi Khee 32 155 10 Daw Pha Kho Haw Lu Der 25 145 11 Daw Pha Kho Kho Haw Der 56 324 12 Htaw Ta Htu Klay Khee 34 240 13 Htaw Ta Htu Bu Khee 22 160 14 Htaw Ta Htu Tha Aye Khee 36 250 15 Htaw Ta Htu Ha Htoe Per 43 264 16 Htaw Ta Htu Wah Soe 32 177 17 Htaw Ta Htu Hi Daw Khaw 51 250 18 Htaw Ta Htu Sho Ser 231 165 19 Htaw Ta Htu Thay Kho Der 15 90 20 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee 43 256 21 Htaw Ta Htu Bu Hsa Khee 31 185 22 Htaw Ta Htu Tha Kwee Soe 23 120 760 4,457
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 76
ERA Follow Up Report 28/12/04
Those villagers that received assistance now had bought rice by themselves. When they going to buy rice at Kaw Thay Der and Kler La Der, according to the situation, they have to depend on the villagers who are under control of the SPDC. If the villagers there told them the SPDC troops were staying in their camp, not moving to any other places, then they quickly entered to the village and bought the rice. Some time they can depend on information from local authorities of Karen. Some villagers bought the rice in their own area and some tried to get the rice by their own way from the SPDC control area. Related to distribution trip, we have not find any difficulty they found in time of purchasing rice.
There wasn’t any checkpoint of the SPDC to pass through on the way of buying rice. So the villagers didn’t have to pay any taxes to the SPDC. Whenever they going to buy rice, they must have contact with the villagers from who lived under of the SPDC certainly as they didn’t face with any the SPDC troops on the way. There we noticed that after the assistance distribution, we don’t heard any news about the distribution spread out, because of the villagers who received assistance money were situated in deep jungle, hillside, and stream source.
There had been forced labor, porter, messenger, build the military camp, making fence, digging the bunker, cleaning the car roads, and villagers those have cars are forced to transport military supplies in the area of the SPDC control.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 77
Report Number CIDKP-2004-02
Date Submitted: 10 May 2004
Location: Daw Pha Kho and Htaw Ta Htu Townhsips
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho West Day Loh Htaw Ta Htu West Ya Loh
Zone:
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 17 795 4,334
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-39, LIB-53, LIB-75, LIB-124 Infantry Battalions IB-39, IB-48, IB-55, IB-75 Other Strategic Command 1
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 78
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 79
CIDKP-2004-2 ERA Distribution Summary 10 May 2004
Demographics:
4,334 people, 795 families, 17 villages in Thandaung Township. 252 boys and 230 girls < 5, 1,892 males and 1,970 females > 5.
Logistics
Left Mae Sariang 11/2/2004-7/4/2004 (54 days). 14 days walking, 3 waiting for security clearance, 9 more days walking to area, 16 days registering villagers and distributing aid, 5 days resting, 3 days conducting needs assessment for further aid, 7 days walk return.
Team delayed crossing the Saw Hta - Kyaukgyi Road for 3 days due to SPDC patrols. Relief distributed at 6 locations over 6 days. Villagers did not have to walk more than 1 hour to distribution point.
Protection
Since request submitted, IB-48 burnt 13 cardamom plantations and 1 barn holding 90 tins of rice. Forced labor reported common on Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road to transport military supplies. Attacks resulted in at least 1 civilian death. No external support for primary schools.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 80
ERA Distribution Report [Continued] n.d.
Situation in Western Day Loe and Western Yaw Loe in Taw Oo (Taungoo) District:
Four Cuts began in 1997 and militarization began to occur. Large numbers of Total in both areas since then. In 1999, LIB-124 under Strategic Command (1) established B’ Yin Naung base at Than Thaung Gyi Town (operations in Daw Pa Kho area- western Dai Loe). 2,000 Short-pants began operating (Kei Der and Ler Kla Der in Taw Ta Htoo Township and Maw Nyui Bwa area attacks under leadership of Tin Hla). “When the Burmese troop meet with them the troop open fire to them or when they were arrested by the troop they were certainly facing with death.”
[Note: When durian, betel nut, and cardamom are destroyed it takes another 4-5 years before new ones produce.]
Security issues
8/03 SCA Division Commander Tin Aye ordered tactical commander (1), Khin Maung Oo, and his sub-commanders to destroy or burn all hiding places and paddy fields belonging to Total.
10/9/3 General Tin Aye ordered Strategic 1 Commander Colonel Kay Maung Oo and battalions to step up search and destroy missions (LIB-53, LIB-39, LIB-124, LIB-75) and plant mines.
18/11/03 IB-39 carried out operations in Maw Kho Der Village and fired on Saw [Name Redacted] (30 yrs. old) and badly wounded.
20/12/03 IB-55 fires on Maw Toe Der Village and Saw [Name Redacted] (21 yrs. old) killed.
22/12/03 IB-48 under Lt. Ko Ko Aung and IB-73 carried out a joint operation in Khu Thay Der Village.
15-31/10/4 IB-75 Column 2 began operations in Day Loe area. IB-53, under BC Moe Min Myint, with 100 soldiers established a camp from which they carried out search and destroy missions, especially during the dry season.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 81
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 W. Day Loe Htee Bu Khi 22 51 52 12 7 122 2 W. Day Loe Bwe Bu Khi 23 58 66 3 7 134 3 W. Day Loe Ka Thwee Dee Bwe 19 52 59 2 10 123 He Kho 4 W. Day Loe Kler Bar Htee 31 85 85 6 10 186 5 W. Day Loe Kler Mu Hgah 97 237 251 19 23 530 6 W. Day Loe Ker Der Kar 40 100 99 22 7 228 7 W. Day Loe Ler Gei Kho Der Ka 30 57 80 12 13 162 8 W. Day Loe Ler Gei Kho 46 116 103 10 12 241 9 W. Day Loe Ker Weh 91 208 227 28 28 488 10 W. Day Loe Htee Ta Bu 47 131 117 24 7 279 11 W. Day Loe Thu Gay Der 36 80 82 11 14 187 12 W. Day Loe Ka Thaw Bwe 54 148 144 23 15 330 13 W. Day Loe Sa Ba Law Khee 51 102 110 12 15 239 14 W. Day Loe Ku Thay Der 68 143 144 17 17 321 15 W. Day Loe Kaw Law Ka 48 106 105 23 15 249 16 W. Yaloe Hgeh Der 49 112 132 18 12 274 17 W. Yaloe Ler Kla Der 43 106 114 13 8 241 795 1,892 1,970 252 230 4,334
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 82
Report Number CIDKP-2004-09
Date Submitted: 16 June 2004
Location: Along Taw Oo – Maw Chi Road, near Kler Lah Relocation Camp
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho Klay War Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 496 2,740
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-55, LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-502, LIB-589 Infantry Battalions IB-39, IB-48, IB-73, IB-92, IB-124, IB-264, Other Tactical Command 1
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 83
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 84
CIDKP-2004-9 ERA Summary Request (Revised) 16 June 2004
Demographics
2,740 people, 496 households, 9 villages in Thandaung Township. KNU: Klay War Village Tract of Daw Pu Kho Township and Kaw Thay Der Village Tract in Htaw Ta Htoo Township of Taw Oo district. Located along the Taungoo - Mawchi Road, near the Kler Lah Relocation Camp adjacent to the Karenni State border.
Rational:
December 2003 27 Kaw Thay Der villagers arbitrarily arrested and detained by SPDC while travelling to their betel nut plantations.
December 2003 Klay Soe Khi villagers ordered to relocate to Kler Lah and 20 houses burnt to force the evacuation.
January 2004/2 Women [number not specified] raped by soldiers in separate attacks south of the road.
March 2004/13 Cardamom plantations and 90 baskets of paddy burnt just north of the road.
April 2004/21 Cardamom plantations and seed valued at 5 million kyat (250,000 Thai baht) burned by SPDC just north of the road.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 85
CIDKP ERA Request
Background:
Western Klay War area is in Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung) Township, Kaw They Der area is in Htaw Ta Htu (Tantabin) Township, Taw Oo (Taungoo) District. Very mountainous: Must walk or take the river (Day Loe). Than Daung Gyi – Taw Oo Road is the only one passable for cars.
Livelihoods
Prior to1974-1975 this area was completely under KNU administration, which changed that year when the Four Cuts began.
In 1999, SPDC established a hill town (Than Daung Gyi), and IB-124 took position there and sometimes carried out operations in the Day Loe area with other infantry battalions.
IB-73 Took a position to the west of Keh Der and Ler Klar Villages in Tantabin and north of Klaw Me Der Village.
During 2000, guerilla troops [Short Pants] led by Tin Hla entered area and “persecuted” people.
Military operations typically carried out during harvest time.
Current Situation
12/2003 Onwards infantry battalions carried out operations in Htee Tha Hsaw, western Klay War, Kaw They Der (Taw Oo District). People from last two in hiding.
17/12/2003 Troop Light Infantry Division 55 and IB-502 (BC Nyunt Win) captured 3 villagers in Day Loe. One killed, the other two are missing. Villagers in Htee Tha Saw fled and troops looted and destroyed property valued at 385,000 [kyat].
18/12/2003 The same troops entered Western Klay War and opened fire and extorted possessions. Prevented them from going to fields and orchards.
18/12/2003 IB-92, IB-39, and IB-589 (led by Lt. Mya Kyi, Htut Lwin, Maung Maung Kyi, and Win Naing) entered Klay Soe Khi Village in Western Klay War area.
They ordered them to leave without bringing any possession and relocate to Kler Lar. 19/12/2003 burnt Saw [Name Redacted] home worth 350,000 kyat and Saw [Name Redacted] house worth 380,000 kyat. Shot and killed pigs belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] (80,000 kyat) and Saw [Name Redacted] (95,500 kyat). In total, 20 houses destroyed. Estimated total losses at: 3,000,000 Kyat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 86
30/12/2003 IB-124 and IB-92 jointly entered Kaw Thay Der and captured 27 villagers while tending their betel nut plantations. Four of them were girls. Similar operations discouraged people from tending coffee, betel nut, cardamom, which has impact on cash income.
7/1/2004 IB-124, led by Aung Naing Oo, entered Kaw Thay Der and captured Naw [Name Redacted] (age 36) while holding her child. Corporal Tin Shwe raped her between Kaw Soe Kho and Kler Lar Villages. Two privates from IB-124 “deceived” Naw [Name Redacted] and raped her as well.
13/1/04 Tactical Commander (1) Khin Soe captured 9 villagers between Maw Ko Der and Kler Lar. Demanded 2,500 Kyat from each.
14/1/04 IB-264 and 124 led by Tun Lin and Aung Naing Oo, respectively, shot Saw [Name Redacted] bull (176,000 kyat).
19/3/04 IB-48 in Gar Mu Der area burned down 13 cardamom orchards (valued at 2,355,000 kyat).
20/30/04 IB-48 (Ko Ko Oo) burnt a barn and 90 baskets of paddy belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] and his house as well as that of Saw [Name Redacted] (200,000 kyat total)
7/4/040 IB-73 based at Sheh Loe on Taungoo - Maw Chi Road carried out search and destroy missions: burned 21 cardamom plantations for a loss of 1,880 viss (3,008 kg) of seeds worth 5,640,000 kyat.
16/4/04 IB-92 BC Aye Min Tun shot at Hsaw Mu Der villagers, but no one wounded.
Closest places to purchase food are Kler Lar and Tha Daw, a journey of 20 miles.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Village Tract Households M F M (< F (< Total (>5) (>5) 5) 5) 1 Lay Soe Khi W. Klay War 78 189 205 31 32 457 2 War Mu Der W. Klay War 36 98 79 13 15 204 3 Maw Hgo W. Klay War 42 102 107 10 20 239 Der 4 Ku Plaw Der W. Klay War 48 140 111 12 12 275 5 Pai Kaw Der W. Klay War 163 382 400 44 45 871 6 Der Doh W. Klay War 45 115 107 10 14 246 7 Naw Thay W. Klay War 6 18 20 3 0 41 Der 8 Maw Pah Der Kay Thay 78 187 164 22 33 406 Der 496 1,231 1,193 145 171 2,740
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 87
Report Number CIDKP-2005-01
Date Submitted: 18 April 2005
Location: Maw Nya Bwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Division District Township Village Tract(s) Pegu Division Toungoo Tantabin n/a
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Division District Township Village Tract(s) Karen Taw Oo Htaw Te Htoo Maw Nya Bwa Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 17 750 3,838
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-53, LIB-60, LIB-590 Infantry Battalions IB-73, IB-124 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 88
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 89
Report CIDKP-2005-01
Emergency Rations Request Summary 18 April 2005
Demographics:
3,838 people, 750 families, 16 villages in Maw Nya Bwa and Kaw They Der areas, Htan Ta Htoo Township, Toungoo District. 216 boys and 256 girls [472] < 5 and 1,613 males and 1,753 females >5.
Rationale:
Southeast Command HQ issued order in late September that 2 villages had to pay 50 kyat/day for day passes to farms.
Fear of arbitrary execution keeps people away from fields. 30 yr.-old male killed by SPDC gunfire in one village [not named].
LIB-60 patrolled Maw Nay Bwa Village Tract for at least 2 weeks beginning in late November searching for people in these free-fire areas and destroying settlements along the way.
LIB-53 simultaneously patrolled Kaw They Der Village Tract for at least 2 weeks beginning in late November, and villagers also fled to forest.
Extensive reports of petty theft, extortion, and forced labor in this request.
Undocumented amount of cardamom and rice fields that could not be harvested due to restricted access and the ongoing need to hide in the forests.
SPDC Operations
6/9/2004 IB-124, based at Tha-Aye-Hta demanded 2 women from Gar-Mu-Doe to transport military supplies from Baw-Ga-Li to Tha-Aye-Hta camp.
7/9/2004 IB-73, led by Bo Aung Kyaw Myint, demands 12,000 kyat from Sha-Zi-Po Village for four rice mills (3,000/per).
10/9/2004 IB-73, led by Bo Thiri Zaw, demands a sack of rice from Htaw-Ma-Ee Village. Also demand Sha-Zi-Po villagers provide 300 kyat for a messenger.
15/9/2004 LIB-590, led by Bo Aung Gyi, based at Kaw-Thay-Doe camp, orders 3 women and 1 man from Kaw-Thay-Doe Village to porter military supplies to Naw Soe camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 90
16/9/2004 Operation Command 1, led by Commander Khin Sin of Southeast Command Headquarters, based at Baw-Ga-Li, commandeers a truck from Naw Ah Ree of Kay-Thay-Doe Village to transport firewood to their army camp.
16/9/2004 Commander Khin Sin orders villagers in Baw-Ga-Li and Kaw-Thay-Doe Villages that they must pay 50 kyat/person to travel to their fields. He threatened to take action on any villagers who fail to write a pass.
17/9/2004 IB-73 Column 1, led by Battalion Commander San Mytin, came to Ka-Ser-Doe Village, stole 2 ducks and 3 chickens for meat and in addition, they took 6 people as porters.
18/9/2004 IB-124, based in Tha-Aye-Hta camp, order Gar-Mu-Doe villagers (one woman and three men) to porter military supplies from Baw-Ga-Li to Tha-Aye-Hta.
19/9/2004 IB-73, led by Major San Myint, came to Mwee-Lor Village and demanded 6 villagers to porter military supplies. Troops from IB-73, based at Klaw-Mee-Doe camp, led by Bo Lwin Oo, summoned the Hu-Mu-Doe village head and asked for the names of the pastor, the schoolteacher, and demanded village provide 1 viss meat/month. He also demanded the village head to send information every day.
20/9/2004 IB-73, Klaw-Mee-Doe camp commander, Lwin Oo, ordered 5 villages [not named] in Tantabin Township to deliver rice to Major San Myint at Mwee-Lor Village.
23/9/2004 LIB-590, based at Kaw-Thay-Doe camp, forcibly collected villagers of Kaw-thay-doe Village: 1) Saw [Name Redacted], 2) Saw [Name Redacted], 3) Saw [Name Redacted], 4) Saw [Name Redacted], 5) Saw [Name Redacted], and 6) Saw [Name Redacted] to porter rations from Kaw-Thay-Doe camp to Naw-Soe camp.
23/9/2004 IB-73 Column 2, led by Major Maung Maung So, shot at villagers at Tha-Pan- Chaung, killing [Name Redacted] (30 yrs. old) of Zyat-Gyi Village, and looted from him 150,000 kyat
28/11/2004 LIB-60, based in Tha Byin Nyut (with strength of 4 sections) and led by Battalion Commander Hlain Win Tin and 2nd Battalion Commander Maung Maung Hta, entered Play Hsa Loe, Yer Loe, Ta Pa Khi, Plaw Baw Der, Keh Der, Wah Loe, Swa Loe, Klaw Me Der, Lay Oh Loe, Baw Pa in Mya Nya Bwa areas. Everyone in these villages fled and hid in the jungle. These troops are conducting search-and-destroy in this area.
28/11/2004 LIB-53, led by Battalion Commander Aung Kyaw Myint and 2nd Battalion Commander Nay Myo Win, left from Per Hti Village in Htaw Te Htoo (Tantabin) for Khaw Poe Loe, Mwee Loe, Hu Mu Der, Ler Kla Der practicing search-and-destroy operation. These troops also have military activities in Kaw Soe Kho, Wa Tho Kho and Ler Koh. The villagers fled and hid in the jungle. These troops are still having search-and-destroy operations in these areas until now.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 91
Note: Due to military operations, villagers could not harvest crops (November and December), the food stored from rainy season almost gone, and they were not able to bring much food with them.
Total in urgent need of food
No. Village Tract Village Households M > 5 F >5 M < 5 F < 5 Total 1 Maw Nay Bwa Wah Loe 16 40 40 4 6 90 2 Maw Nay Bwa Swa Loe 38 86 83 9 12 190 3 Maw Nay Bwa Klaw Me Der 117 266 285 22 51 624 4 Maw Nay Bwa Lay Oh Loe 12 26 27 8 2 63 5 Maw Nay Bwa Baw Pa 13 29 24 6 8 67 6 Maw Nay Bwa Hu Mu Der 56 129 128 21 30 308 7 Maw Nay Bwa Ler Kla Der 40 110 98 12 8 228 8 Maw Nay Bwa Khaw Poe Loe 15 32 41 7 2 82 9 Maw Nay Bwa Plaw Baw Der 31 65 87 7 6 165 10 Maw Nay Bwa Mwee Loe 32 64 77 6 18 165 11 Maw Nay Bwa Keh Der 50 108 124 18 13 263 12 Maw Nay Bwa Ta Pa Khi 23 42 38 8 8 96 13 Maw Nay Bwa Yer Loe 48 83 126 18 17 244 14 Maw Nay Bwa Play Hsa Loe 71 15 172 24 21 372 15 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Soe Kho 115 227 239 22 32 520 16 Kaw Thay Der Wa Tho Kho 44 105 97 15 15 232 17 Kaw Thay Der Ler Kho 29 46 67 9 7 129 750 1,613 1,753 216 256 3,838
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 92
Report Number CIDKP-2005-08
Date Submitted: 20 January 2005
Location: Western Klay Loe and Kaw Thay Der
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho Western Klay Loe Hta Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 676 3,481
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-108, LIB-348, LIB-349, LIB-440, LIB-603 Infantry Battalions IB-26, IB-39, IB-48, IB-60, IB-73, IB-75, IB-92 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 93
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 94
Revised ERA request (30 August 2005)
Topography:
Western Klay Soe is covered with hills and valleys. Taungoo – Kler La is the main car road. Cars can travel from Kler La to Bu Hsa Khi after the road is reconstructed during every dry season.
Upland rice cultivation and hillside farming are the norm. Secondary crops include: betel nut, durian, cardamom, and dog fruit. Military operations since 1997 have produced chronic food shortages due to land confiscations, destruction of farms, forced relocation, forced labor, portering, landmines, etc.
SPDC Operations
21-2-2005 IB-92, based in Tha Aye Hta ordered two villagers from Hgar Mu Doe village, Thandaung Township, to porter supplies from Baw Ga Li Village to Tha Aye Hta camp.
22-2-2005 Operation Commander Khin Soe of SPDC Southern Command commandeered 9 trucks from Baw Ga Li and Kaw Thay Doe Villages to transport food supplies to Tha Aye Hta and Bi Mu Kho camps.
23-2-2005 Operation Commander Khin Soe of SPDC Southern Command commandeered 7 trucks from Baw Ga Li and Kaw Thay Doe Villages to transport food supplies to Tha Aye Hta and Bi Mu Kho camps.
23-2-2005 Bo San Htoo of IB-60 demanded 60,000 kyat and 3 bullock carts belonging to Saw [Name Redacted], Lay Ti Village, Tan Ta Bin Township. Bo Hlaing Win Tint of IB-60 also demanded 200 pieces of thatching from each villager.
23-2-2005 IB-60, led by Column 2 Commander, Hlain Win Tint, abducted 6 people (Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], and Saw [Name Redacted]) from Ye Shan Village, Tan Ta Bin Township.
25-20-2005 IB-48 Columns 1 and 2, led by BC Maung Maung Win and 2nd BC Thet Naing, burned down betel nut, durian, mangosteen, cardamom plantations, as well as vegetable gardens, near the road between the Klay Soe Khee – Baw Ga Li Villages. The soldiers also went to Kaw Thay Doe and Ku Ler Doe Villages and burnt 13 upland paddy fields. The owners include: 1) Saw [Name Redacted]; 2) Naw [Name Redacted]; 3) Saw [Name Redacted]; 4) Saw [Name Redacted]; 5) Saw [Name Redacted]; 6) Saw [Name Redacted]; 7) Saw [Name Redacted]; 8) Saw [Name Redacted]; 9) Saw [Name Redacted]; 10) Saw [Name Redacted]; 11) Saw [Name Redacted]; 12) Saw [Name Redacted]; and 13) Saw [Name Redacted]. Troops also stole 1 wristwatch and 3 machetes from 3 Kaw Thay Doe villagers (Naw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], and Saw [Name Redacted]) while they were in their betel nut plantations at Moo Lor Po place in the Kay Thay Doe area. They also encountered 2 loggers from Kaw Thay Doe Village, near Ku Ler Doe Village. They stole 1 viss of dried fish, 10 duck eggs, 2 viss of potatoes, 100 cheroots, 1 viss of cooking oil, and 2 sickles from them.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 95
15-2-2005 The SPDC troops [battalion not specified] are constructing a new army camp at Yae- Way between Bo Ma Ti and Htee Lor in Tan Ta Bin Township. They force villagers, including women and children, to provide labor to construct the camp on a daily basis. The villages affected: Mae Tin Tai, Taung Gyi, Pet Taw Day, Sha Zee Boo, Ye Shan, Zee Pyu Gon and Taw Gon.
25-2-2005 IB-48 Columns 1 and 2 burned the forests along the Baw Ga Li – Bu Hsa Khee Road in Tan Ta Bin Township. The fire spread and many upland paddy fields and plantations were destroyed. The troops are conducting regular patrols and pass through villages around battalion headquarters based at Za Yat Gyi, during which they extort money and steal things from the villagers.
25-2-2005 IB-48 troops burned villagers’ cardamom plantations in Tan Ta Bin Townships. Plantation owners affected: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (2 farms producing 85 viss of seed/year); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (1 farm- 80 viss of seed/year); 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (one farm - 95 viss of seed/year); 4) Saw [Name Redacted] (1 farm - 70 viss seed/year); 5) Saw [Name Redacted] (1 farm - 80 viss seed/year); 6) Saw [Name Redacted] (1 farm - 80 viss seed/year). The troops also burned down 12 upland paddy fields belonging to Kay Thay Der villagers and 9 upland paddy fields belonging to Ku Ler Der villagers.
6-3-2005 IB-60 Column 2 Commander, Hlaing Tint, demanded 250 pieces of thatching from each group of villagers, to be delivered to Taungyi and then Mae Tin area. [Unclear as to whether each villager or each village required to send the leaves.] The troops extorted money (1,500 kyat) from everyone transporting a cartload of firewood or bamboo.
7-3-2005 IB-60 Column 1 Commander, Bo Hsa Htoo, abducted 11 people: 1) Saw [Name Redacted]; 2) Saw [Name Redacted]; 3) Saw [Name Redacted]; 4) Saw [Name Redacted]; 5) Saw [Name Redacted]; 6) Saw [Name Redacted]; 7) Saw [Name Redacted]; 8) Saw [Name Redacted]; 9) Saw [Name Redacted]; 10) Saw [Name Redacted]; and 11) Saw [Name Redacted]. All of them are from Peh Taw Day Village, Tan Ta Bin Township. The troops took them to Kwin Ga Lay where they forced them to build the army camp. Some of the villagers were also forced to accompany the patrols, and they have not been released as of this report.
8-3-2005 IB-48 Camp Commander, Bo Than Hlain Oo, based at Ye Tho Gyi Village, Tan Ta Bin Township, ordered 4 women and 2 men from Ye To Gyin Village to carry army rations to Naw Soe (Aung Daing Gyi). He also demanded 500 bamboo poles, measuring 7 cubits in length, to be delivered to the army camp.
9-3-2005 IB-60 Column 1 Commander [not named] demanded that Ohn Bin Chin Village and Myat Swa Chaung Village provide 30 persons each as well as bullock carts from La Maing Pya Village to carry food supplies to the Ye Da Goon army camp.
10-3-2005 IB-73 Sergeant Soe Win, extorted 1,000 kyat from every person in Taunggyi Village, Tantabin Township (approximately 40,000 kyat).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 96
11-3-2005 IB-48 troops barred trucks from Ye Tho Gyi and Baw Ga Li Villages, Tan Ta Bin Township, from travelling to Taungoo.
13-3-2005 IB-60 Column 2 Commander Major Haling Ting’s troops stole 20 viss of chicken and 60 viss of pork from Taunggyi Village while villagers were participating in a Christian church service.
15-3-2005 IB-92 Major Soe Myint forced 7 people from Ye Tho Ga Lay Village to porter army food rations to Thay Aye Hta Camp: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (18 yrs. Old); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (16); 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (35); 4) Naw [Name Redacted] (34); 5) Saw [Name Redacted] (16); 6) Naw [Name Redacted] (22); and 7) Saw [Name Redacted] (20).
15-3-2005 LIB-440 Column 1 Commander Major Zaw Win Aung commandeered 13 bullock carts from villagers in Tha Yet Tan and Jwe Lan to transport military supplies to their new army camp at Ye Way, located between the Bon Ma Ti and Htee Lor (Meh Tin Tain) Villages in Tan Ta Bin Township.
16-3-2005 IB-60 Column 2 Commander, Major Hlaing Tint, demanded Meh Tin Tain villagers provide 50 poles of giant bamboo to construct their new army camp at Ye Way.
16-3-2005 LIB-440 Column 1 Commander, Major Zaw Win Aung, ordered 6 women from Tha Yet Tan and Jweh Lan Villages, Tan Ta Bin Township, to carry military supplies to the Hgar Mue Doe and Thay Aye Hta camps. The women were: 1) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 16); 2) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 16); 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 14); 4) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 17); 5) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 21); and 6) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 45).
22-3-2005 IB-60 Column 1 Commander, forced 34 women and 43 men from Ye Ta Gun Village to transport 53 sacks of rice and 10 tins of cooking oil from Pa Let Wa camp to Ye Ta Gun camp in Tan Ta Bin Township.
22-3-2005 IB-92 troops burned down the forest on both sides of the road from Sheh-Hta Village to Sha Per Village, Tan Ta Bin Township, destroying a large [but unspecified] number of villagers’ plantations in the process.
23-3-2005 IB-60 Column 1 Commanders, Bo Way Pyo Paing and Bo Hla Oo, forced 21 women and 47 men from Yet Ta Gun Village to porter the remaining army rations at Pet Let Wa camp. They also commandeered 24 bullock carts to transport 50 baskets of rice and 10 tins of cooking oil.
23-3-2005 IB-48 Column 1 Commander, Maung Maung Oo, at around 1 pm, shot and killed, without reason, Bu Hsa Khee villager, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 33), son of Saw [Name Redacted] and Naw [Name Redacted], while he was fishing at Yaw Po Lor River in the southern part of Ta Kwee So (Hnet Pyaw Daw) Village, Tan Ta Bin Township.
23-3-2005 IB-60 Column Commander, Bo Hlaing Tint, forced Htee Lor (Meh Tin Tain) villagers to cut 20 giant bamboo poles and smaller pieces of bamboo for making bamboo twines;
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 97
10 giant bamboo poles in Za Yat Gyi Kin Mon Chon Village in Tan Ta Bin Township, and then forced them to carry it to Meh Tin Tain army camp. He also commandeered 2 bullock carts belonging to Meh Tin Tain villagers’ Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted].
14-4-2005 Troops from Ba Yint Naung army camp in Thandaung Township burnt down 10,000 acres of paddy fields and orchards (beans, cardamom, and coffee) belonging to Ka Weh villagers.
15-4-2005 Battalion Commander, Win Soe, and IB-39 troops, led by Company Commander Htun Lwin, based in Htee Ba Say camp, forced 21 people from Htee Tha Saw Village in Thandaung Township to construct the Thout Yee Cut motor road. They had to do so every day, including Sundays, with their own food supplies.
15-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belonging to Maw Pah Der villagers in Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owners identified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (1 farm – 50 viss seeds/year); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (70 viss/year); and 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (100 viss/year).
16-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed Khu Pler Der villagers’ plantations Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owners indentified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (50 viss seeds/year); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (60 viss seeds/year); and 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (70 viss seeds/year).
16-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belonging to Der Do villagers in Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owners identified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (150 viss seeds/year); and 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (90 viss seeds/year).
17-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belonging to Per Kaw Der villagers in Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owners indentified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (70 viss/year); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (60 viss/year); and 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (80 viss/year).
17-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belonging to Naw They Der villagers in Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owner identified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (80 viss/year).
17-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belonging to Per Kaw Der villagers in Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owners identified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (70 viss); and 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (60 viss).
16-4-2005 IB-48 troops burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belonging to Ga Mu Der villagers in Western Klay Soe area, Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township). The owners identified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (90 viss); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (80 viss); 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (90 viss) [note: date might be a typo].
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 98
18-4-2005 IB-92 troops, based at Wah Soe area, Tan Ta Bin Township, burnt and destroyed cardamom plantations belong to U-Beh villagers. The owners identified: 1) [Name Redacted] (15 viss); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (15 viss); and 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (15 viss).
20-4-2005 IB-60 Column 1 Commander, Bo Hlaing Tint, based at Htee Loe camp, ordered villagers from Htee Loe and Ga Zer Doh to clear the motor road from Htee Lo to Ga Zer Doh and Ga Zer Doh to Sha Zee Bo Villages. They were ordered to clear the bushes on both sides (10 cubits, i.e., 5 yards back).
22-4-2005 IB-60 troops under Column 1 Commander Bo Hlaing Tint stole 13 buffaloes from Ga Zer Doh Village and took them to Htee Loe camp. The owners identified: Saw [Name Redacted] (4 buffalos); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (5); and 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (4). The troops also demanded 1,000 kyat, 2 viss of chicken, and 3 lemon fruits “as ransom for each buffalo.”
22-4-2005 IB-60 Company Commander San Htoo demanded 6 women and 35 men from Taung Gyi village to provide forced labor, to clear bushes along the road from Taung Gyi to Sha Zee Bo camp. He also ordered the village headmen to provide one person, for three days at a time, and one from Mae Tin Tain, to serve as runners [messengers] for Kwin Ka Lay army camp. If a villager failed to report, they had to pay a fine (300 kyat).
23-4-2005 IB-60 required every muzzleloader gun owner to pay 500 kyat to the Kwin Ka Lay camp (5,500 kyat in total extorted).
25-4-2005 IB-92 Company Commander, Pyo We Hla, demanded 4 people porter army supplies from Baw Ga Lee Lay Village to Tha Aye Hta camp in Tan Ta Bin Township.
27-4-2005 IB-73 troops under Bo Maung Maung’s command, burnt and destroyed [Name Redacted] plantation in Ma Sa villager near the Thandaung motor road. They also stole chickens, pigs, and other items from the village.
30-4-2005 IB-75 Company 2 Commander, Bo Myint Win, based at Klaw Mee Doe camp, Tan Ta Bin Township, ordered Heh Deh Village members to provide data by filling in 10 different forms regarding: family members, house number, total population, number of boys and girls over 12, a list of all the students in the village, a list of all students attending school outside the village, school teachers, chairman/secretaries/missionary teachers, villagers lacking ID cards, bamboo houses, houses with tin roofs. All lists had to be sent to Klaw Mee Do camp within 3 days.
1-5-2005 IB-39 troops, led by Bo Soe Win, ordered one person from each household in Thout Ye Cut, Hta Pu Kee, Moe Kee, Ler Kha Plo, Mae Yaw Po Lee, Mar De Po Lee and Keh Chaung Villages to clear brush and weeds around the base of each electrical pylon.
6-5-2005IB-48 troops fired shots into Kwee Soe Village. Some villagers were injured and Saw [Name Redacted] is still missing.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 99
8-5-2005 Over 400 LID-66 troops arrived at Klaw Mee Doe Village. They ordered the village heads in Hu Moe Dee and Kheh Doe to remain in the village, forbade everyone from travelling to their paddy huts and vegetable gardens. LID-66 troops also demanded that the Play Sa Loe village head meet with them.
8-5-2005 Troops based at Tha Byay Nyunt camp arrived at Nyaung Ywet and Wa Thoe Villages. Later that evening 4 trucks carrying more SPDC troop arrived at both villages, which prevented them from tending their fields. “These troops purposefully destroyed the villagers’ agricultural lands in order to prevent them from growing crops.”
12-5-2005 LID-66 and LIB-108 troops, based at Paw Mu Khee, entered Haw Poe Loe Village and took photos. Then they arrested 3 villagers: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] from Paw Mu Khee village; 2) [Name Redacted] (age 65) from Mwee Loe Village); and [Name Redacted] mother (age 55). They stole the following from [Name Redacted]: one pyi of rice, 500 kyat, 2 packets of groundnuts; and from the mother of [Name Redacted]: 1 sack of rice; and from [Name Redacted] grandmother: 1 chicken; and from [Name Redacted]: 1 chicken and from [Name Redacted] 1 sack of rice.
14-5-2005 IB-48, led by Bo Thein Hlaing Oo, based at Kaw Thay Doe camp, forced 6 Kaw Thay Doe villagers to porter army rations from Kaw Thay Doe to Naw Soe. The villagers identified: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 30); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 32); 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 30); 4) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 30); 5) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 19); 6) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 19). Operation Command Commander Khin Maung Htun also ordered residents of Baw Ga Lee Gyi Village and Kaw Thay Doe Village to provide 250 bamboo poles [size not specified]
16-5-2005 IB-75, led by Bo Myint Win, based at Klaw Mee Do camp, ordered every household in Law Mee Doe Village to cut ten poles of bamboo. IB-599 Commander, Khaing So, ordered Ka Zer Doh villagers to send a list of all familes to Kwee Lay camp within the day.
21-5-2005 IB-92 troops, battalion commander [not named], based at the Taungoo - Maw Chee Road in Tan Ta Bin Township, commandeered a car from Yay Tho Lay to take him to Bo Gi Lee Kyee Village.
25-5-2005 IB-92 and LIB-440 combined troops forces villagers in upland areas to provide labor [unclear]. They carefully examined the belongings of everyone travelling by road. Many passengers were required to give money to soldiers at checkpoints along the Toungoo – Baw Wa Ga Li Gyi Road and the Ye Thoo Gyi Road.
25-5-2005 IB-39 and IB-26 troops, based to the west of Gyi Chaung, Thandaung Township, and security troops from Bayitnaung, confiscated 250 acres of land from villagers to construct a military camp [# 603?] at Laid Thoo. The troops also forced them to serve as sentries along the road and electricity lines in the Tan Thaung Lay Thoo area. Heavy security forces established along the road from Lait Thoo - Nget Pyat Taw Village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 100
26-5-2005 IB-73 troops, led by BC San Myint, ordered villagers in Shar Zee Bo and Yee Shan to cut 50 bamboo poles each, and deliver them to the IB-73 battalion headquarters based at Zayat Gyi Village.
1-6-2005 Troops from IB-73, led by Bo San Myint, ordered 5 bullock carts be provided by Sha Si Bo Village, Tan Ta Bin Township. He also demanded 3 viss of chicken. Bo Aung Kyaw Myint of IB-73 also extorted 10,000 kyat from the villagers.
4-6-2005 LIB-349 and IB-26 troops prohibited villagers in Tan Ta Bin Township from travelling on motor roads, from village to village paths/tracks, and staying in at their farms and plantations after 6 pm [i.e., a curfew].
6-6-2005 IB-73 new Camp Commander, Bo Than Soe (he replaced Bo Aung Kyaw Myint), demanded 1 man and 4 women from Zee Pyu Gon Village to provide labor for the camp. The following days he demanded 5 men and 4 women to provide labor for the camp.
10-6-2005 IB-75, Bo Mya Win, based at Yee Ta Gun camp, ordered the village heads from Mya Swa Chaung, On Bin Chaung, and La Mine Chaung in Tan Ta Bin Township, to meet with him. He ordered them to submit a special report once a week and take photographs of Christian churches in their own villages and send them to the camp. He also declared that all villagers would need a travel pass when the military was conducting operations in the area.
13-6-2005 IB-73 troops, led by Bo Than Soe, forced 17 men and 13 women from Zee Pyu Gon Village, and 21 men and 10 women from Taw Gon Village to work at their camp in Sha Si Bo.
22-6-2005 IB-603, led by Bo Soe, in Thandaung Township, burnt down the homes belong to 2 village heads: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] of Mine Pun A Tet; and 2) Saw [Name Redacted] of Mine Lun A Ler.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households > 5 > 5 F < 5 < 5 Total M M F 1 Western Klay Maw Pah Der 87 215 235 18 20 488 Loe 2 Western Klay Khu Pler Der 45 111 104 6 15 236 Loe 3 Western Klay Maw Ko Der 47 91 113 20 22 246 Loe 4 Western Klay Per Kaw Der 162 358 368 63 91 880 Loe 5 Western Klay Ga Mu Der 34 90 75 14 27 206 Loe 6 Western Klay Der Doh 63 142 145 32 27 346 Loe
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 101
No. Village Tract Village Households > 5 > 5 F < 5 < 5 Total M M F 7 Western Klay Klay Soe Khi 61 170 167 28 41 406 Loe 8 Western Klay Naw Thay 8 23 21 5 3 52 Loe Der 9 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Thay 169 418 435 64 64 981 Der 676 1,618 1,663 250 310 3,841
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 102
Report Number KORD-2005-02
Date Submitted: 14 February 2005
Location: South of Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, adjacent to Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Kee Road
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Hta Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Maw Nya Pwa
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 15 457 2,906
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-439, LIB-590 Infantry Battalions IB-53, IB-60, IB-73 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-180 Infantry Battalions IB-26, IB-48, IB-73, IB-92 Other Military Strategy Command (no. 1)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 103
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-33, LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions IB-30 Other Military Strategy Command (no. 3), “Short Pants”
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 104
KORD-2005-02 ERA Request Summary 14 February 2005
Demographics:
2,906 people, 457 households, 15 villages in Thandaung Township. KNU: Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nya Pwa Village Tracts of Htaw Ta Htu Township (Toungoo District)
Located south of Taungoo-Mawchi Road and adjacent to the Kler Lah to Bu Hsa Khee Road, which cuts south-east towards Papun Township.
Rationale:
From late November 2004 until the needs assessment was conducted in mid-January columns of SPDC troops from 5 battalions (IB-60, IB-53, Ib-73, LIB-590 and LIB-439) were patrolling rivers and mountains adjacent to the Kler Lah and Bu Hsa Khee Road. Resulted in:
Armed skirmishes with KNLA forces on at least 6 occasions in December in this area.
Theft of betel nuts from 178 plantations, which were unattended due to the owners’ fear of patrolling SPDC troops.
Theft and destruction of an unaccounted amount of paddy (although reportedly the majority of that harvested in 2004) from barns in each of the 15 villages, after residents had retreated to surrounding forests prior to the troops arrival.
Imposition of forced mine-sweeping along the Kaw Thay Der - Bu Hsa Khee road in late December, which resulted in 1 Klay Soe Khee villager losing a leg.
Arrest and subsequent disappearance of 2 Hsaw Wa Der villagers in later December.
Villagers are surviving on rice soup from paddy not found by SPDC troops and supplementing this with daily labor for, or borrowing from lowland villagers.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 105
ERA Report
General Description of SPDC actions
The incident took place in 15 villages in Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nay Pwa Ta Htu Townships of Taw Oo District.
Date of incident:
24 November 2004 - 7 January 2005 (needs assessment date), and the activities along the car road are ongoing.
Group of Perpetrators with Commanders:
Troops are under the control of Military Strategic Command 1 led by Strategic Commander Col. Khin Soe: - IB-60 BC Lt. Col. Win Bo Shein and 2nd BC Maj. Hlaing Ting - IB-53 BC Maj. Thein Naing Htun and 2nd BC Capt. Soe Oo Han - IB-73 BC Lt. Col. San Myint and 2nd BC Maj. Maung Maung Soe - LIB-590 BC Maj. Ko Ko Oo and 2nd BC n/a - LIB-439 BC Maj. Aung Htay Win and 2nd BC Capt. Zaw Htet Naing
Description of incident
Since 11/2004 four companies from IB-60 and four companies from IB-53 left their camps in Tha Bye Nyunt and Per Hti [respectively] to carry out operations in Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts.
IB-60
29/11/2004 IB-60 companies departed Tha Bye Nyunt and passed through Yu Lo and Ka Mu Khee and arrived in Si Daw Kho area. They entered Pway Baw Der and engaged with KNU troops in an area known as Naw Lu Ku.
29/11/2004 These same troops patrolled the area between Pway Baw Der and Saw Mu Der. The KNU engaged them at Wa Baw Daw. They then cleared the area around Saw Mu Der, and in the evening moved on to Wa Mi Per Kho.
IB-53
28/11/2004 IB-53 companies left Per Hti and passed though Khaw Po Law, Hoo Mu Der and the cleared Pu Mu Der area. They later moved on to Per Lo and Khaw Tu Hto.
According to instructions of the Strategic Commander, IB-60 and IB-53 troops will combine at Per Lo and then conduct a joint operation in the May Daw Kho area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 106
30/11/2004 LIB-60 engaged with KNU troops at Wa Mi Per Kho.
1/12/2004 Column 1 of LIB-60, led by BC Win Bo Shein, moved to Yaw Lo River and then the Khaw Tu Hto area. Column 2, led by 2nd BC Hlain Tint, remained at Wa Mi Per Kho. IB-53 Columns 1 and 2, which had been in Per Lo and Khaw Tu Hto areas, moved to Law Bee Ler and May Daw Kho that same day.
2/12/2004 All four IB-53 companies and all four IB-60 companies met each at Naw Soe camp in May Daw Kho.
3/12/2004 IB-53 moved back to patrol the May Thay Der and Khu Ler Der areas.
4/12/2004 These troops [IB-53?] based at Kaw Thay Der moved back to Kler La. Columns 1 and 2 of IB-60 were instructed to patrol and clear the Si Kheh Der area.
5/12/2004 These 2 columns [IB-60] returned to Khaw Tu Hto and Po Mu Der.
7/12/2004 IB-60 troops returned to Klaw Mee Der camp. IB-60 Column 2 changed places with IB-73 Column 1. IB-60 Column 1 changed places with IB-73 Column 2 as well. They [IB-60 – not clear, see below] then went to Hta Der in the Kler Lwi Htu District area.
9/12/2004 IB-73 Column 1 left Klaw Mee Der camp and moved through Kaw Thay Der, Khu Ler Der, Law Bee Ler, and then to Naw Soe Camp.
10/12/2004 IB-73 Column 1 changed places with LIB-590 Column 2 at Kaw Thay Der and Naw Soe Camp[s].
11/12/2004 IB-73 Column 2 left Hta Der and rotated with other troops [not specified]. [Same date] this column entered the Mwee Lo Chaung valley to Klaw Mee Der and changed direction towards the car road.
13/12/2004 IB-73 Column 2, led by Column Commander Maung Maung Soe, entered and patrolled Khu Ler Der and Maw Thay Der and later moved on to Naw Soe camp. This column moved again to Si Kheh Der, Plo Mu Der, Tha Kwee Soe, and on arrived at Bu Hsa Khee camp on 15/12/2004.
14/12/2004 LIB-590 rotates in replacing IB-73 Column 2. LIB-590 left Bu Hsa Khee and moved to Pway Baw Der area.
18/12/2004 LIB-590 Column [not specified] engaged with KNU troops two times that same day in Pway Baw Der area.
19/12/2004 LIB-590 Column [number not specified] enters the Saw Mu Der area and again engages with KNU troops at Daw Thi Khee. The SPDC troops then went to and patrolled Saw Mu Der and Wa Mi Per Kho areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 107
25/12/2004 IB-590 Column [number not specified] troops patrolled the Ka Mu Lo area in the Kler Lwi Htu District and then returned to their battalion’s base camp.
During this period we know that LIB-439 was responsible for providing security along the Kaw Thay Der - Bu Hsa Khee Road. This battalion forced villagers from Klay Soe Khee to clean the road and to sweep for landmines.
23/12/2004 One villager from Klay Soe Khee stepped on a mine and lost a leg.
26/12/2004 LIB-349 arrested 2 villagers in Hsaw Wa Der area and, as of the report date, there is no news regarding them.
During the 2-month operation the SPDC troops systematically sought out and destroyed food caches and plantations. According to the local authorities and some village elders, these troops destroyed almost all of the paddy in the fifteen villages: Hsaw Wa Der, Khu Ler Der, Maw Thay Der, Law Bee Ler, May Daw Kho, Per Lo, Khaw To Hto, Si Kheh Deer, Plo Mu Der, Po Mu Der, Sa Wa Daw Kho, Wa Mi Per Kho, Saw Mu Der, Pway Baw Der, and Si Daw Kho. The troops also looted approximately 240,000 viss from 178 betel nut plantations while owners were in hiding.
Troops also arrested some villagers and forced them to work, act as guides, tortured, and being lost as well.
“According to talks with local KNU leaders, we know that the patrolled troops SPDC were instructed to clear the area in order to wipe out the villages in the areas so that the operation can be run smoothly. At the time of patrolling, they were allowed to take, and to destroy all properties and kill people in sight. As the patrolled troops did not bring sufficient food in the operation, they had to carefully look for food and properties of villagers in the area for them to be able to eat fully.”
“As a result of this operation, we find that villagers are now living hardly and are having the soft meals, which just to fulfill the stomach only. At the time we visited the area, we found that the villagers were depending on the little paddy that were not found by the SPDC, and we belief that they will finished it already. Now they will have to depend on borrowing from lowland villagers or working on daily labor as on any kind of work they would find.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 108
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Township Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Kaw Thay Der 133 914 2 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Tha Khwee So 19 102 3 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Bu Hsa Khee 30 180 4 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Plo Mu Der 32 160 5 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Hsaw Wa Der 67 412 6 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Khu Ler Der 24 142 7 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Si Kheh Der 59 342 8 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Per Lo 11 79 9 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der May Daw Kho 21 116 10 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Law Bee Ler 15 84 11 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Maw Thay Der 22 120 12 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Khaw Tu Hto 29 147 13 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Sa Wa Daw Kho 24 150 14 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Saw Mu Der 32 250 15 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Wa Mi Per Kho 38 268 16 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Pway Baw Der 21 163 17 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Po Mu Der 35 168 18 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Si Daw Kho 27 305 639 4,120
Total in Urgent Need of Food
No. Township Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Plo Mu Der 32 160 2 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Hsaw Wa Der 67 412 3 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Khu Ler Der 24 142 4 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Si Kheh Der 59 342 5 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Per Lo 11 79 6 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der May Daw Kho 21 116 7 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Law Bee Ler 15 84 8 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Maw Thay Der 22 120 9 Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Khaw Tu Hto 29 147 10 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Sa Wa Daw Kho 24 150 11 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Saw Mu Der 32 250 12 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Wa Mi Per Kho 38 268 13 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Pway Baw Der 21 163 14 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Po Mu Der 35 168 15 Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Si Daw Kho 27 305 457 2,906
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 109
ERA Distribution Summary 15 July 2005
ERA Distribution Monitor Report
Paddy farming and hillside cultivation. Due to SPDC patrols, live in dispersed pattern in deep forest, hillsides, deep valleys, and river sources. It takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to go from one place to another. Settlements typically only 5-10 houses due to patrols. The villagers have to flee 3-4 times/year to avoid the troops, which undermines their food security, as frontline camps are very nearby.
Soil is poor: only 5 baskets of paddy from 1 basket of paddy seeds, so they must plant 15-20 baskets in order to get enough for their families. Collect and sell cardamom seeds, dog fruit, betel nut and leaves to get cash to purchase what they need. Nearly all of the fruit trees located near the road have been destroyed. People in most difficult situation cannot go to district and brigade offices to borrow paddy, rice, and salt without interest and then pay back at harvest time. Karen in SPDC-controlled areas sometimes come up to sell things at Kaw Thay Der and Ler Peh Khee Villages. Costs going up due to increase SPDC movements and travel restrictions, especially between upland and lowland areas. Both now need travel passes and SPDC issued ID cards.
SPDC Operations
Htaw Ta Htu Township:
(Sa Ba Ha) Military Strategy Command (1), (Ta Pa Ka) Southern Military Command (Sa Ba Ha) Military Strategy Command (1), Commander, Col. Khin Soe Base: Kler Lar
IB-48
BC Lt. Col. Maung Maung Win and 2nd BC Than Naing Base camps: Bu Hsa Khee, Plo Mu Der, Naw Soe, Kaw Thay Der Areas patrolled: Yaw Lo Klo, Moe Khee Car Road – Taw Ta Htoo Township
IB-26
BC Aung Htoo and 2nd BC Aung Naing Base camps: Than Taung, Hset Thone mine (13 Mile), Shwe Nyung Bin, Lake Pyar Lay, Meh Thin Ka Lay, Mine Na Hseh Pyoung Tho, Baw Ga Li, and Htone Bo. Areas patrolled: From Than Thi - Than Toung Car Road area to Daw Pa Kho (Thandaung Township)
IB-92
BC Lt. Col. Win Min Tun and 2nd BC Kyaw Zwar Ko
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 110
Base camps: Aung Myin, Khi Chaung, P’na Kho Soe, Tha Aye Hta, Ye Thoe Lay Lan Kweh, Ga Mu Der Areas patrolled: Borderline of Daw Pa Kho Township from the east to the northern part of the Moe Khee Road in Htaw Ta Htu Townhip.
SPDC Operations since the ERA Request
2/4/2005 IB-48, led by Column 2 Commander, Than Naing, set fire at many places: Si Kher Der, Hsaw Wa Der, May Daw Kho areas in Htaw Ta Htu Township (fruit tree gardens and hillside paddy farms). IB-92, led by Column Commander Kyaw Tin Ko, also set fire to villages and surrounding areas: Kaw Thay Der, Khu Ler Der, Ga Mu Der (betel nut, cardamom, dog fruit, and hillside paddy).
27/4/2005 IB-73, led by Maung Maung Soe, burned all of the cardamom gardens near the car road and their military camps. Fire damaged mature and seedlings: betel nut, cardamom, dog fruit, and hillside paddy as well. “Moreover, these troops of SPDC, if they found the villagers in working side, paddy huts, or in the forest looking for something to eat, they arrested and asked the local KNU headquarters, frightened them, tortured them, and finally killed them all.”
23/12/04 [refers to past event] “The above mentioned SPDC troops when entered Hsaw War Dar village area found and captured two villagers: Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted] while in their paddy huts and tied them up together with rope and took them along up to War Mi Baw Soe. Then they (SPDC) asked them about the KNU. But as the two villagers knew nothing about the KNU and could not answered them, the troop tortured them and later killed them all beside the War Mi Baw Soe car road.”
“During our distribution trip the mobile troops of SPDC division (LID-66) and (LID-10) battalions about 1,000 strengths entered Htaw Ta Hta Township area and kept patrolling around in the foot of the mountain area from 4/5/05 up to 10/5/05. During the time when they were patrolling in the area due to the explosion of a land mine between Yu Lo and K’mu Lo, this troop withdrew and moved down back to Wed Oo Myoung. On their way down back to Wed Oo Myoung, the troops took along 7 villagers and released 5 of them and still taking the rest 2 in order to guide them along their way back.
On 6/6/05 The SPDC (IB-48) shot 2 Tha Kwe Soe villagers at Kwee Pa Na and one of them Saw [Name Redacted] got injured at his leg and the other namely Saw [Name Redacted] disappear until now. On 15/5/05, due to the explosion of a land mine of the local KNU, the SPDC troop division (LID-66), those had already reached Hsaw De Do Mountain returned to Wet Lu Myaung. On their way back, they took 7 villagers from Yu Lo Village along with them. Among the 7 villagers they released 5 and still taking the rest 2. On the same day of 10/5/05, a troop of the SPDC LIB-180 from the LID-66 sent a letter enclosing 1 G-3 bullet to the Kheh Der village headman in order to frighten him. The SPDC division entered Htaw Ta Htu Township of Taw Oo District with the purpose of to attack the headquarters of the brigade, district, battalion and companies. At the same time to burn down and destroy all the villages and villager’s properties, they may find in the area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 111
KORD Follow Up Report 2 September 2005
SPDC movements
“After the distribution, we see the SPDC movement have continuously occurred in the area as they have had a plan. The SPDC orderly keep their troops in the whole front lines areas in order to be able to carrying out activity continuously.
Because of the strong and continuation of movement of the SPDC troops those base on the Bu Hsa Khee car road and Mo Khee car road patrolling up and down from the low land to upland the villager those living and hiding in the up land area always have to live in great fear and worry and are not able to work freely and regularly in their work sites. In last dry season, the SPDC troops kept their troops along the Bu Ha Khee and Mo Khee car roads in order to take straight security duty for the other troops moving up and down, transporting military rations and ammunition for the front line troops.
While taking security duty, the SPDC troops as mentioned above were setting up the fire on the forest starting from Kaw Thay Der car road to Klay Soe Khee and from Moe Khee to May Mu Kho. So doing like this many of the villager’s hillside cultivation, betel nut gardens, cardamom gardens, coffee plants and durian gardens were being burnt, and that it became great hardship and difficulty for the displaced villagers in the area to be continued survive.
Currently, there are the movements of the SPDC were continuously still existing in the area of Kaw Thay Der Village, Ko Khee Village, and villages in the eastern part of Klay Lo River. Therefore, due to the long period of the SPDC activities are threatening the villagers to looking for some food and working a their work sites, the villagers situated there were facing many problems of the household needs especially main food such as rice and others. Currently, the villagers are more depending on natural resource in order to be continue survive by collecting dog fruits and exchange with rice at Kaw Thay Der market place once or two times a week.
Additionally, on early part of July, the SPDC military strategy command (3) strategy commander Thein Tun from Eastern Military Command with guerrilla company [Short Pants?], 13 battalions from Division 33 and the military IB-30 came and took patrol up to Pa Leh Wah.
On 6/7/05 the SPDC combined troops arrived at Klaw Mi Der military camp to patrol in Taw Ta Htu Township area of Taw Oo District.
On 7/7/05 the SPDC a military guerilla group from military strategy (3) left Hu Mu Der village and called one villager namely Saw [Name Redacted] (42 years old) as guide and on the way between Hu Mu Der and Ku Lu Der in a betel nut garden and they shot that villager died. In the same date of 7/7/05 in the evening, the same troop of the SPDC military guerilla from Military Strategy (3) again shot dead a villager from Lay Ti village namely Saw [Name Redacted] (33 years) old in a betel nut garden between Kho Lu Der and Hu Mu Der Villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 112
On 9/7/05 the same SPDC military guerilla from Military Strategy (3) again arrested Lay Ti villager namely Saw [Name Redacted] between Kho Lu Village and Hu Mu Der Village and brought him along with them and killed him after seriously tortured.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 113
Report Number KORD-2005-05
Date Submitted: 23 August 2005
Location: East of Bu Hsa Khee – Kler Lah Road, South of Kler Lah – Maw Chi Road
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Kaw Thay Der Klay Wa Mu Htaw
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 11 356 2,133
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions IB-30, IB-48, IB-73, IB-92 Other Strategic Command 3, “Short Pants”
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions IB-30, IB-48, IB-73 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 114
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 115
KORD-2005-5 ERA Request Summary 23 August 2005
Demographics:
2,133 people, 356 households, and 11 villages in Thandaung Township. KNU: Kho Khee and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts of Htaw Hta Htu Township (Toungoo).
The area is east of the Bu Hsa Khee – Kler Lah Road and south of the unfinished Kler Lah – Maw Chi Road. Most civilians in this area do not expose themselves to Burma army patrols, but rather hide when they approach.
Rationale:
In April IB-92 patrolled the Maw Chi Road environs and IB-48 patrolled Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road environs. Apart from scareing villagers into hiding and burning forests as they travelled, the patrols reportedly also burnt 204 cardamom plantations belonging to 14 villages, 33 coffee plantation from 10 villages, 13 durian gardens across 6 villages, and 14 paddy fields from 3 villages.
Alleged summary execution of 2 farmers from Thakweeso Village on May 6 by IB-48.
Alleged summary execution of 2 farmers from Sa Oo Per Village on July 7 by Strategic Command 3 Guerrilla Unit [Short Pants].
Alleged summary execution of 1 farmer in Pa Le Wa on July 11 by the same guerrilla unit.
Other battalions (IB-73 and IB-30) rotated into the area in July, resulting in an ongoing campaign and no respite for the villagers.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 116
ERA Relief Request 30 July 2005
Military Units Identified (with commanders)
Under Southern Command
IB-48 BC Lt. Col. Maung Maung Win and 2nd BC Major Than Naing IB-92 BC Lt. Col. Win Min Htun and 2nd BC Major Kyat Saw Ko IB-73 BC Maj. Aung Hkant and 2nd BC Captain Myint Kyi
Under Eastern Command
A guerrilla company [Short Pants] led by Win Min Nyunt
Description
“According to the information from the local Karen military source we know that the SPDC troops have plan to clear the area in Taungoo District. Starting from the first of April IB-92, troops came up and patrolled along the Maw Chi Car Road in the area of Sho Ser, Wah Soe, Htee Hsa Per, Thay Gi La, Kho Khee, Hi Daw Khaw, Thay Khu Der and Ha Htoe Per. At the same time, IB-48 patrolled along the car road from Kaw Thay Der to Bu Hsa Khee in the Bu Hsa Khee, Tha Kwee So, Bu Khee, Klay Khee, and Tha Aye Khee areas. These two battalions have burnt the forest on the time of their patrol. As that was the summer time, it is easy to burn and destroy the paddy fields (before growing paddy) and gardens of the villagers in the area.”
Gardens those destroyed by fire are:
Village Cardamom gardens Coffee gardens Durian gardens Htee Hsa Per 14 5 2 Thay Gi La 5 2 1 Oo Per 10 3 3 Hi Daw Khaw 9 1 Wah Soe 20 4 3 Kho Khee 23 7 Thay Khu Der 13 2 2 Klay Khee 8 Tha Aye Khee 20 1 Ha Htoe Per 15 2 Tha Kwee So 25 Bu Khee 2 Bu Hsa Khee 26 190 27 11
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 117
April 2005
IB-48 patrolled along Kaw Thay Der - Bu Hsa Khee Car Road burned the surrounding forest, 1 paddy field in Bu Hsa Khee, 6 in Kaw Thay Der, and 7 in Khu Ler Der Villages. Villagers fled and remain in hiding.
“On 6/5/2005 the IB-48 found two Tha Kwee So villagers, Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted], those are brothers on their way to paddy field. The troop shot at the two together on sight. The elder brother, Saw [Name Redacted], died while the young brother’s leg got wounded.
“On 7/7/2005 a guerrilla group of Strategic Command 3 entered Hoo Mu Der Village and forcibly called Saw [Name Redacted], who was 42 years old with them. They the troop kills him in an areca garden at Sa Oo Per. On the same day this troop captured a Lay Ti villager, Saw [Name Redacted], who was 33 years old in Sa Oo Per areca garden. There they hit him and killed him there.”
“On 9/7/2005 this guerrilla group shot at Ler Klah Der villagers in a paddy field and then entered Ler Klah Der village. There they arrested a villager, Saw [Name Redacted], who was 28 years old, tied him with rope, hit him, covered his head, and forced him to hit his head with tree [branch] and he got seriously hurt. “
“Then on 11/7/2005 this guerrilla troop killed a Lay Ti villager, Saw [Name Redacted], who was 30 years old in Paw Lew Wa.”
19/7/2005 This guerrilla troop and the IB-30 troops arrived at Bu Hsa Khee and rotated positions with IB-48. IB-48 moved back and patrolled along the car road to Kaw Thay Der.
21/7/2005 IB-48 arrived back at Kler La and lastly to Taungoo Town.
[No date] IB-73 troops conducted patrols in lowland areas and then slowly moved up the mountains into the Maw Nay Pwa area. They later moved to Pa Leh Wa and patrolled the car road between Kler Lah and to Klay So Khee.
10/7/2005 IB-73 patrolled the Maw Chi Car Road between the Sho Ser and Wah Soe areas. They rotated with IB-92 troops [no date] while there. IB-92 then moved back to Thay Gi La, Htee Hsa Per, Oo Per, and Ga Mu Der, patrolling the surrounding areas while en route.
22/7/2005 IB-92 arrived back to Kler La and then retuned to Toungoo Town.
“When we look around in the area of Toungoo District, we find the activities of the SPDC troops are occurring all the time. Frequently, the SPDC troops are changing troops, taking places, building car roads, and sending the food supplies and ammunition. At any time of doing these kinds of things, they always took patrolled on the way forth and back, which is harmful to the villagers.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 118
“Because of the long and continuous patrol, villagers are loosing their belongings from time to time even many of them have nothing left.”
Reason for operations: To establish more military camps and to facilitate the transportation of ammunition and rations.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Township Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Htaw Ta Htu Klay Wa Mu Htaw Thay Gi La 13 97 2 Htaw Ta Htu Klay Wa Mu Htaw Htee Hsa Per 46 293 3 Htaw Ta Htu Klay Wa Mu Htaw Oo Per 24 128 4 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Thay Khu Der 15 88 5 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Ha Hto Per 39 260 6 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Tha Aye Khee 40 262 7 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Kho Khee 51 236 8 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Wah Soe 35 195 9 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Hi Daw Khaw 49 268 10 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Sho Ser 21 148 11 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Klay Khee 34 230 12 Hta Ta Htu Kho Khee Bu Khee 17 119 13 Hta Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Tha Kwee Soe 27 159 14 Hta Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Bu Hsa Khee 28 168 439 2,651
Total in Urgent Need of Food
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kho Khee Thay Khu Der 15 88 2 Kho Khee Ha Hto Per 39 260 3 Kho Khee Tha Aye Khee 40 262 4 Kho Khee Kho Khee 51 236 5 Kho Khee Wah Soe 35 195 6 Kho Khee Hi Daw Khaw 49 268 7 Kho Khee Sho Ser 21 148 8 Kho Khee Klay Khee 34 230 9 Kho Khee Bu Khee 17 119 10 Kaw Thay Der Tha Kwee Soe 27 159 11 Kaw Thay Der Bu Hsa Khee 28 168 356 2,133
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 119
KORD Distribution Summary 30 November 2005
SPDC Troop Positions and Commanders Identified
Battalions are under control of Sa Ba Ha (Military Strategic Command 1), and under Commander Col. Khin Soe from the Southern Military Command.
IB-30 BC Col. Zaw Tun Aung and 2nd BC Col. Aung Mya Oo
Camps and commanders: Bu Hsa Khee Camp – Col. Zaw Tun Aung Thee Mu Paw Soe Camp – Warrant Officer (2) Aik Yu Naw Soe Camp – Capt. Saw Tun Aung Ye Tho Gyi Camp – Col. Aung Mya Oo
Operating area, strength, and commanders
Bu Hsa Khee – 1 Platoon – Officer Saw Thi Ha Between Bu Hsa Khee and Bu Lo Kho – 1 Platoon – Sergeant Myint Lwin The Kwe Soe area – 1 Platoon – Officer Than Zaw Mying
Between Plo Mu Der and Si Kheh Der – 1 Platoon – Sergeant Yan Naing
Between Naw Soe, Kaw Thay Der, and Khu Ler Der – 1 Platoon – Sergeant Aung Htay.
Bu Hsa Khee, Bu Khee, Bu Hsa Hta area – 1 Platoon – Guerilla Ye Mann and Officer Si Thu Maung Maung
IB-73 BC Col. Aung Khant and 2nd BC Capt. Minn Oo Camps locations and commanders: Pay Mu Kho – Col. Aung Khant P’na Kho Soe - Lt. Thet Oo Myint Tha Aye Hta – Capt. Min Oo Klay Soe Khee Branch line – 2nd Lt. Win That Naing
IB-73 Operating area, strength, and commanders
Between Pa Na Kho Soe and Pay Mu Kho areas – 2 Platoons – Officer Chan Nyain Tha Between Wah Soe and Shoe Ser area – 1 Platoon – Officer Ti Ri Zaw Between Pa Na Kho and Sheh Lo – 1 Platoon – Capt. Zay Yar Htun Between Kyi Chaung and Sa Lu Chaung – 1 Platoon – Sergeant Kyaw Tun Aung Between Thay Kho Der and Ha Hto Per – 1 Platoon – Lt. Aung Kyaw Myint Between Klay Soe Khee branch line and Tha Aye Klow – 1 Platoon – Officer Lwin Oo Ga Mu Der area – 1 Platoon – Sergeant Ba Ko
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 120
SPDC activities
These battalions entered the area between the two car roads during the summer and began operations. Burned the forest, villages, farms, etc. “When doing this interview with Bu Hsa Khee Villager namely Saw [Name Redacted], he said that in the early part of this year, during the time of cutting down the trees preparing my new hillside cultivation, the SPDC troops had reached my paddy field twice and set up landmines in side and beside my paddy farm…”
Killing
Case 1. Name: [Name Redacted] / single Age: 33 years Village: Bu Hsa Khee Place: Yaw Lo riverbank, Kho Khee area in Htaw Ta Htu Township Date: 22 March 2005 around 12 noon Perpetrator IB-48, commander unknown
“On the way to their cardamom plantation, Saw [Name Redacted] and another four persons with the purpose to clean the weeds and grow more cardamom plants, they were shot with guns by the SPDC troop IB-48 when they reached the Yaw Lo riverbank. Among them, Saw [Name Redacted] was hit on his waist and he has died on the spot and, as for the rest they manage to run escape said Saw [Name Redacted], Bu Hsa Khee villager who went along with him at the time.”
Case 2 Name: Saw [Name Redacted] (father for four children) Age: 30 years Village: Tha Kwee Soe Place: Bu Lo Klo, Kwee Pa Na Soe, Kho Khee area, Htaw Ta Htu Township Date: 6/5/05 at noon time
“On the way to his paddy cultivation, Saw [Name Redacted] was shot with a gun by the SPDC troop from IB-48 at Bu Lo Klo, Kwee Pa Na Soe, and he has died on the spot. As for his younger brother, namely Saw [Name Redacted], got injured on the heel and now he is receiving medical treatment in Tha Kwee Soe Village. Until now he is not perfectly recover yet said Saw [Name Redacted] (witness) from Tha Kwee Soe Village.”
Case 3 Name: Naw [Name Redacted] (single girl) Age: 17 years Village: Thay Khu Der Place: Wah Soe abandoned village, Kho Khee area, Htaw Ta Htu Township Date: 25/7/05 about 11 am
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 121
“When Naw [Name Redacted] when on the way to visit her elder brother at Blar Khee Village and while she arrived at Wah Sho abandon village she has stepped on one of the landmine set by the SPDC IB-73 that both of her legs were cut and she died on the spot. After the incident, two of her friends went back to village and informed the case and the other villages went and took her corpse back said Saw [Name Redacted] from Thay Khu Der Village.”
The SPDC Project
Goal based on interviews
“Reconstruct Klay Soe Khee – Pay Mu Kho Road and the Klay Soe Khee – Bu Hsa Khee Road. Both are rough and can be used during the dry season only. During the rainy season, cars can only reach up to Kaw Thay Der Village. They have to rebuild every summer due to rains. Their goal is to make them coal-tar road to be able to quickly transport military rations and ammunition to frontline military camps easily and quickly in order to overrun the whole area of Taw Oo District.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 122
Report Number KORD-2006-03
Date Submitted: 3 April 2006
Location: East of Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Rd., both north and south of Kler Lah – Maw Chi Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho Klay Wa Mu Htaw Klay We Mu Nu Haw Ta Htu Kay Thay Der Kho Khee Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 15 429 2,683
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-4, LIB-10, LIB-440 Infantry Battalions IB-73, IB-75 Other Tactical Command 663
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-1, LIB-4, LIB-5, LIB-6, LIB-10, LIB-108, LIB- 603 Infantry Battalions IB-11, IB-14, IB-53, IB-73, IB-80, IB-124 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 123
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 124
KORD-2006-3 ERA Request Summary 3 April 2006
Demographics:
2,601 (2,683 originally) people (429 households) from 15 villages in Thandaung Township. KNU: Haw Ta Htu and Daw Pa Kho Township. The area is east of the Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road and stretches both north and south of the Kler Law – Maw Chi Road.
Note: The assistance excludes 17 households (82) people who went to the Thailand-Burma border prior to aid distribution and entered refugee camps [not specified], while others went to the Ee Tu Hta IDP camp [See final ERA request in this appendix].
Rationale:
IB-75 and 73 and LIB-440 from SPDC’s Strategic Command, Military Strategic Command 1 and LIB-4 and LIB 10 of Tactical Command 663 of LID-66 have been deploying patrols since 28 November 2005 to present.
The patrols are conducting search-and-destroy missions to clear the area, which they believe to be KNU sympathizers, using threats, arrests, and fire.
IB-75 burned one village completely on 28 November and troops looted all the private property. They arrested one villager, who has not returned.
In December, there were 3 rounds of shelling of mortars into hiding sites and plantation sites, and 2 reported clashes with SPDC and KNU troops in January and February in this area.
26 cardamom gardens and 280 viss of seed, 492 baskets of rice, 640 baskets of paddy destroyed, and an unknown amount of goods seized.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 125
ERA Request 4 March 2006
Kaw Thay Der and Kho Khee, and between Mo Khee and the Bu Hsa Khee Road in Htaw Ta Htu Township, extending into Klay Wa Mu Htaw (east of Klay Wa) from the north of Mo Khee road, which is in Daw Pha Pho Township.
Date: 28 November 2005 – ongoing
Military Unites and Commanders Identified:
Battalions under the command of Military Strategic Command 1 of the Southern Command: IB-75, BC Thaung Sein and 2nd BC Sit Naing IB-73, BC Aung Khant and 2nd Minn Oo LIB-440, BC Zaw Oo and 2nd Myo Win Nyunt
Battalions under the command of Tactical Command 663 of Division 66: LIB-4, BC unknown LIB-10, BC Soe Myint and 2nd BC Win Zaw Oo
Description of the incident
During move to Nyapidaw SPDC patrols increased in Taw Oo District. According to district officials, the SPDC will launch a military offensive in the area, as it is the “dangerous area to the new headquarter.” Since then, IB-75, led by BC Thaung Sein and 2nd BC Sit Naing, began to patrol Htaw Ta Htu Township, mostly around the Kler Lah – Mo Khee Road and in the Sho Ser and Wah Soe area.
28-11-2005 IB-75 troops left Sho Ser – Wah Soe and moved towards Hi Daw Khaw Village. They seized what they wanted and then burned down 28 houses.
29-11-2005 IB-75 troops moved back to Sho Ser. There, they arrested a village (Saw [Name Redacted]) and took him to the Mo Khee Road. There has been no news about him since.
4-12-2005 IB-75 took over from IB-73 and manned Tha Aye Hta, Pa Na Kho Soe, and Pay Mu Kho camps. IB-73 then moved to Thay Kho Der, Hsaw Wa Der, and Kho Day where they conducted patrols.
12-12-2005 IB-73 Shelled Hsaw Wa Der’s betel-nut plantations with four #79 mortars.
13-12-2005 IB-73 launched three #79 mortars at known hiding places, but no one was wounded.
13-12-2005 IB-75 from Tha Aye Hta camp moves in and patrols the Thay Khu Der area.
14-12-2005 IB-75 patrols Kho Khee, Hi Daw Khaw, Sho Ser and Wah Soe areas onto the Mo Khee Road.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 126
15-12-2005 IB-73 departs Hsaw Wa Der areas and returned to Kler Lah Road.
20-12-2005 IB-75 (group) from Pa Na Kho Soe camp, located on the Mo Khee Road, begins patrolling the Klay Wa Mu Htaw area (Daw Pha Kho Township), where they engaged with KNU soldiers. The next day they moved back to Mo Khee Road and returned to the Pa Na Kho Soe camp.
4-2-2006 LIB-4 and LIB-10 of LID-66 lefts Klay Soe Khee and moved to Ga Mu Der, and then up to Kler Lah – Mo Khee Road area.
7-2-2006 Both LIB reached the frontline Tha Aye Hta camp.
9-2-2006 LIB-10 left Tha Aye Hta camp while LIB-4 remained. LIB-10 moved to the Hsaw Wa Der area and then continued up to Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road. They arrived at Bu Hsa Khee camp the next day.
12-2-2006 LIB-10 left the camp and moved to Bu Day, which is located between Bu Khee and Tha Aye Khee. LIB-4, while still in Tha Aye Hta camp, patrolled Ha Hto, Tha Aye Khee, and Ka Li Hta areas.
13-2-2006 LIB-10 and LIB-4 met in the Tha Aye Khee area. They together moved to Ha Hto Per, where they engaged with KNU soldiers. Later that day they moved to Hsaw Wa Der to Klay Soe Khee to Kler Lah “to take the security of the Division 66 commander”.
“Each of the battalions has troops stationed at the frontline camps and they regularly patrol the area. During these operations, SDPC troops have destroyed a lot of food and seized property, leaving people worry for their life; they are now hiding in the jungle and always put their ears to the available information for their life security. On our assessment trip, we find that many of them have left nothing to eat anymore, but they only have to depend on others and were having soft rice and some have one meal in a day.”
Background reason of incident
“According to the information from the district authorities, the SPDC has a strategy to clear the area by moving people out from the area mainly KNU and its supporters to launch strong patrol and taking place in the area.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 127
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kay Thay Der Bu Hsa Khee 24 130 2 Kay Thay Der Tha Kwee Soe 10 78 3 Kay Thay Der Bu Khee 7 45 4 Kho Khee Klay Khee 30 183 5 Kho Khee Tha Aye Khee 33 221 6 Kho Khee Ha Hto Per 39 250 7 Kho Khee Thay Khu Der 13 81 8 Kho Khee Hsaw Wa Der 71 436 9 Kho Khee Hi Daw Khaw 39 213 10 Kho Khee Kho Khee 41 214 11 Kho Khee Sho Ser 21 129 12 Kho Khee Wah Soe 38 193 13 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Thay Der 133 914 14 Klay Wa Mu Htaw Htee Hsa Per 46 298 15 Klay Wa Mu Htaw Oo Per 24 128 16 Klay Wa Mu Htaw Thay Gi La 13 98 17 Klay We Mu Nu Ga Mu Der 36 205 618 3,816
Total in Urgent Need of Food
No. Township Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Htaw Ta Htu Kay The Der Bu Hsa Khee 24 130 2 Htaw Ta Htu Kay The Der Tha Kwee Soe 10 78 3 Htaw Ta Htu Kay The Der Bu Khee 7 45 4 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Klay Khee 28 173 5 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Tha Aye Khee 33 221 6 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Ha Hto Per 39 250 7 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Thay Ku Der 13 81 8 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Hsaw Wa Der 71 436 9 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Hi Daw Khaw 39 213 10 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Kho Khee 40 21- 11 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Sho Ser 21 129 12 Htaw Ta Htu Kho Khee Wah Soe 46 298 13 Daw Pha Kho Klay Wa Mu Htaw Htee Hsa Per 46 298 14 Daw Pha Kho Klay Wa Mu Htaw Oo Per 24 128 15 Daw Pha Kho Klay Wa Mu Htaw Thay Gi La 13 98 446 2,683
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 128
ERA Distribution Report 7 June 2006
General Situation Update:
Travel restrictions are a significant problem.
30% depend on hillside cultivation, 35% gardening, 25% day labor, animal husbandry, and gathering forest products.
Lowlanders from Khler Lah and Kaw Thay Der can travel up to the limits [boundaries of area permitted to move] and sell/trade rice for other goods with uplanders.
SPDC Operations
9 battalions are currently active, under the control of LID-66, and 4 battalions under the control of Southern Command. o Div. 66: LIB-1, LIB-4, LIB-5, LIB-6, LIB-10, LIB-108, IB-11, IB-14, IB-80 o Southern: IB-73, IB-53, IB-124, IB-603
Tactics: travel restrictions, shell places with mortars where people known to stay [i.e., hiding sites], burn and destroy homes, cardamom, gardens, steal animals, plant landmines in plantations, and forced labor.
Forced labor includes: portering, road cleaning, minesweeping, and sentry duty. “There many people were killed, many were forced to work, many were tortured, and many things were destroyed that we could not get the detail information.”
Troop build-up, stockpile food and ammunition, and establish new camps. More people then forced to ask as sentries and to report on any movements. “According to the local Karen authorities, the SPDC would clear the area within the six months to be able to totally take control the area. They spread the news to villagers in hiding area that they will be the focus and shot at the villagers if there is any fighting or harm to soldiers.”
3 May: “A group of SPDC [not specified] fired guns into Hsaw Wa Der Village and suddenly everyone run to the bushes. There, an 85 year-old man, Saw [Name Redacted], ran with others into jungle as well. But when he remembered his 90 year-old wife, Naw [Name Redacted], could not run, he went back to look after his wife and slept one night in the village. In the next morning on his way to go to other people those hidden in jungle. On the way, he was ambushed by the LIB-108 troops and the troop shot him one on his knee, one on his belly, and the other one on his chest and died at once. After death, he was again beaten by the LIB-108 soldiers until his head go totally broken. At the same time on May incident, another 22 year-old villager was shot and disappeared.”
Other related information [troops not specified]:
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 129
Troops patrolling Maw Nay Pwa took 14 Karen respected drums.
Troops laid 2,000 landmines in Day Lo Mu Htaw and Day Lo Mu Nu areas. 20 villagers already hit [wounded and/or killed not specified].
5-5-2006 troops fire 36 mortars in Hsaw Wa Der area.
Troop required villagers to serve as sentries in the Khler Lah area (2 at night and 1 during the day). People serving at night have to pay 200 kyat/per person. If someone doesn’t go, the village has to pay 900 kyat fine.
Troops permit people in Khler Lah and Kaw Thay Der Villages to transport rice from Toungoo back to their home. They must pass through 8 checkpoints, and they must pay tax or other payment to each.
18-5-2006 troops commander 40 cars [bullock carts?] from Khler Lah, Kaw Thay Der and other villages nearby to transport rations to the frontline.
Frontline troops under orders to uproot rice seedlings in their patrol areas.
Troops tell villagers in the Klay Wa Mu Nu area that they will kill 10 of them for each 1 soldier killed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 130
ERA Impact Assessment Summary 1 October 2006
Market Issues:
Price per tin rose, from 7,000 kyat at the time of request, to 10,000 kyat. The increase is due to several factors: salary increase for government workers [resulting in nationwide inflation], low exchange rate, and SPDC travel restrictions (travellers have to bribe them along the route). Villagers can still access area markets. But due to extortion, they travel through the jungle. So, the journey, which is normally a 3-hour walk, now takes all day.
Livelihood Issues:
Due to the assistance relations between upland and lowland populations have improved. The former is now able to purchase rice from the latter, typically by making appointment to meet in the jungle or other secret places. Rice prioritized, but Total also purchase fish paste, salt, medicine, and clothes.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 131
Report Number KORD-2006-04
Date Submitted: 1 November 2006
Location: West Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Pa
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 14 390 2,494
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-14, LIB-35, LIB-108, LIB-440 Infantry Battalions IB-35 Other Strategic Command 1, Tactical Command 663
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-1, LIB-5, LIB-6, LIB-10, LIB-11, LIB-14, LIB- 20, LIB-57, LIB-80, LIB-108, LIB-240, LIB-323, LIB-361, LIB-522, LIB-568, LIB-603 Infantry Battalions IB-53, IB-73, IB-92, IB-124 Other Tactical Command 1 and 2, Tactical Command 663
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 132
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-333, LIB-507, LIB-561, LIB-568 Infantry Battalions IB-240, IB-241 Other Strategic Command 2
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 133
KORD-2006-4 ERA Request 1 November 2006
Demographics:
2,494 people (390 households) from 14 villages of Thandaung Township. KNU: Htaw Ta Htoo Township, Toungoo District. Target population is located west of the Kler Lah – Bu Hsa Khee Road in hiding sites.
Rationale:
LIB-440 under Southern Command (Strategic Command-1) and LIB-35, 14, and 108 of Tactical Command 663 under Division 66 have been deploying patrols from February to report date [3 April 2006].
Search-and-destroy missions to clear the area of alleged “KNU sympathizers.”
3 killings documented.
SPDC attacked KNLA Brigade 2 Headquarters on 6-2-2006.
During February alone, 580 baskets of paddy, 360 baskets of rice, 445 viss of cardamom seed, and 800 viss of betel nut abandoned or destroyed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 134
ERA Request 3 April 2006
Areas Affected:
Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der areas, to the west of Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee road in Htaw Ta Htu (Tantabin) Township, Taw Oo (Toungoo).
Date:
Primarily during the month of February; however, these same operations continue.
Military Units and Commanders Identified:
Battalions under the command of Military Strategic Command #1 (Southern Command) LIB-440 BC Zaw Oo and 2nd BC Myo Win Nyunt
Battalions under the command of Tactical Command No. 663 (Division 66) IB-35 BC Soe Htunt IB-14 BC Nay Myon Aung LIB-108 BC Aung Kyaw Oo
Military Operations
Since the beginning of February, IB-35, LIB-14 and LIB-108 (under Tactical Command No. 663) have been conducting patrols in Htaw Ta Htu Township, especially in Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nay Pwa areas.
4-2-2006 LIB-14 arrived at Kler La and Kaw Thay Der.
4-2-2006 IB-35 and LIB 108 (Tactical Command 663) approached Play Hsa Lo Village to establish a camp.
6-2-2006 IB-35 and LIB-108 conduct patrols before beginning construction to clear Paw Mu Der, Sa Wa Daw Kho, Wa Mi Per Kho, Saw Mu Der, Pway Baw Der, and Si Daw Kho areas. While there, they attacked KNLA Brigade #2 headquarters.
6-2-2006 LIB-14 left for Kaw Thay Der, preceded along the Bu Hsa Khee road and patrolled the following areas: Khu Ler Der, Maw Thay Der, and Law Bee Ler.
During this period LIB-440 was patrolling Kaw Thay Der, Naw Soe, Plo Mu Der, and Bhu Hsa Khee.
12-2-2006 LIB-108 moved to Si Daw Kho and then headed towards Pway Baw Der where they met with LIB-14.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 135
13-2-2006 LIB-14 moved to Tha Kwee Soe and Bu Hsa Khee area to secure the Bu Hsa Khee Road for transporting food rations and ammunition.
14-2-2006 LIB-14 moved to Saw Mu Der and Pway Baw Der area to conduct patrols. They arrested Saw [Name Redacted] from Play Hsa Lo and took him with them.
14-2-2006 A column from LIB-440, based in Naw Soe camp, moved to the Si Kheh Der area and patrolled from Wa Doh Hto to Plo Mu Der. The column arrived at Bu Hsa Khee camp on 17-2- 2006.
[No date] IB-35 moved to Paw Mu Der and Saw Wa Daw Kho to patrol the Maw Nay Pwa area to provide security for rations and ammunition headed to the Play Hsa Lo camp. During these patrols they killed 2 Ler Klah villagers (Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted]) in their village.
During the February operations, according to the data collected, villagers lost: 580 baskets of paddy, 360 baskets of rice, 445 viss of cardamom seed, 800 viss of betel-nut, 32 chickens, 4 pigs, and 3 villagers killed. Total losses known to be much higher, but further data collection was not possible.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Maw Nay Pa Saw Mu Der 32 252 2 Maw Nay Pa Pway Baw Der 20 160 3 Maw Nay Pa Si Daw Kho 27 308 4 Maw Nay Pa Wa Mi Per Kho 38 268 5 Maw Nay Pa Sa Wa Daw Kho 24 160 6 Maw Nay Pa Paw Mu Der 35 172 7 Maw Nay Pa Khu Ler Der 28 155 8 Maw Nay Pa Law Bee Ler 15 81 9 Maw Nay Pa Maw Thay Der 21 117 10 Maw Nay Pa Per Lo 12 67 11 Maw Nay Pa May Daw Kho 22 128 12 Maw Nay Pa Khaw Tu Hto 31 155 13 Maw Nay Pa Si Kheh Der 62 359 14 Maw Nay Pa Plo Mu Der 23 112 15 Maw Nay Pa Mwee Lo 31 175 16 Maw Nay Pa Ta Pa Khee 22 102 17 Maw Nay Pa Play Hsa Lo 70 380 513 3,151
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 136
Total in Urgent Need of Food
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Maw Nay Pwa Saw Mu Der 32 252 2 Maw Nay Pwa Pway Baw Der 20 160 3 Maw Nay Pwa Si Daw Kho 27 308 4 Maw Nay Pwa Wa Mi Per Kho 38 268 5 Maw Nay Pwa Sa Wa Daw Kho 24 160 6 Maw Nay Pwa Paw Mu Der 35 172 7 Maw Nay Pwa Khu Ler Der 28 155 8 Maw Nay Pwa Law Bee Ler 15 81 9 Maw Nay Pwa Maw Thay Der 21 117 10 Maw Nay Pwa Per Lo 12 67 11 Maw Nay Pwa May Daw Kho 22 128 12 Maw Nay Pwa Khaw Tu Hto 31 155 13 Maw Nay Pwa Si Kheh Der 62 359 14 Maw Nay Pwa Plo Mu Der 23 112 390 2,494
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 137
ERI Distribution Summary Report 1 September 2006
Demographics:
2,576 people, 397 families, 17 villages in Thandaung Township. KNU: Htaw Ta Htu Township of Taungoo District.
Note: 474 people (97 families) fled to the Thailand-Burma border prior to aid distribution; the equivalent amount was distributed to people from three other villagers not included in the original request. Since the area is remarked as a free fire zone villagers are staying in their hiding sites and usually hide in the nearest jungle when SPDC troops approach their sites.
Logistics: 27 April – 18 June (51 days)
Current Situation:
LIB-108, LIB-14, and Tactical 663 of Division 66 are very active in the area: arresting people to make them porter, firing mortars into areas where they believe Total are hiding, extra-judicial killings, burning homes/forced relocation, and landmines planted in plantations [typically along the paths to them]. Several firefights happened nearby as staff was travelling through the area.
Weeds are taking over their crops because they’ve been in hiding for more than one month.
28-4-2006 Received information that LIB-361 (under Operational Control HQ-10, Military Tactical Command #1) had entered and burned Ta Khaw Hto Baw Village where they had planned to spend the night.
5-5-06 Vice-chairman of Taw Oo District, [not named], reports that fighting in the area occurred 6 times that day around Hsi Daw Kho, which was a planned distribution point.
6-5-06 Vice-chairman reports that OCH-16, Military Tactical Command #2 commander with LIB-522, LIB-57, LIB-240 and other unknown battalions (an estimated total of 600 troops) attacked the following areas with heavy weapons: Ka Mu Khee, Play Hsa Khee, Ta Bar Khee, Bway Baw Der, and Hsi Daw Kho. Troops gather at Hsa Wa Der Village afterwards.
7-5-06 Fighting breaks out 4 times in the lower part of Hsi Daw Kho.
General situation
Notes:
Wages for labor (500-800 kyat/day)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 138
17-5-06 Interview with Saw [Name Redacted] of Law Bee Ler Village. He reports: 1) that if the patrols do not decrease within the next 2-3 months, they will face starvation; 2) it is very difficult to buy rice at Kaw Thay Der because the troops prevent traders from carrying a lot of rice, so “we have to approach secretly at night”; villagers from SPDC controlled areas need a permission letter to travel (good for 5 days at a cost of 500 kyat/letter). They are only allowed to carry 4 pyi of rice, however. If they need more rice, then they need to request another letter. The price of one tin had risen sharply (9-10,000 kyat).
SPDC Bases and Camps in Taw Oo District
Battalions under Division 66 Commander Khin Zaw Oo based at Kler Ler
Military Tactical Command #1 Commander Soe Htway based at Kyo Dar Dar Military Tactical Command #3 Commander Tin Aung based at Naw Soe / Maung Tin Kyi
LIB-108 BC Aung Kyaw Oo and 2nd BC Nay Myo Aung Operating areas: Tha Aye Hta, Klay Soe Khee, and Kler Ler.
LIB-11 BC Han Moe Aung and 2nd Unknown Operating areas: Khon Tan, Lake Pyar Lay, and Nan Chaing Khwin.
LIB-80 BC Kyaw Thu Ya and 2nd BC Aung Linn Tun Operating areas: Tha Aye Hta, Ler Hto Day, Pe Mu Kho, Naw Soe, Plo Mu Der, and Bu Hsa Khee.
LIB-6 BC Aung Soe Win and 2nd BC Aye Lwin. Operating areas: Htee Tha Saw, Par Wel Doh Kar, and Kyo Dar Dar.
LIB-10 BC Soe Myint and 2nd BC Win Zaw Oo Operating areas: Khong Taing, Tha Ren Yu, and Mae Ka Don.
LIB-5 BC Zaw Win and 2nd BC Ko Ko Ngel Operating areas: P’leh Wa, Pyong Tho, Ye Tho Lay, Ye Tho Kyi, and Mae Kyaung.
LIB-1 BC Khin Zaw and 2nd BC Aung Minn Operating areas: Kaw Thay Der, Khu Ler Der, and Naw Soe.
Battalions under Southern Command:
Military Strategy #1 based at Lake Tho.
LIB-20 BC Thant Naing and 2nd BC Thein Tun Naing with 115 soldiers Operating areas: Thaunk Ye Kha, Kyauk Lone Kyi, and Daw Der Kho.
IB-53 Two columns BC Thein Tun Naing Operating areas: Mae Tin Seink, Shar Shi Bo, and Htan Ta Bin.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 139
IB-53 Two columns 2nd BC Thein Soe with 125 soldiers. Operating areas: Than Moe Taung, A Lel Chaung.
IB-73 BC Aung Khang and 2nd BC Min Oo with a strength of 100 soldiers. Operating areas: Than Thint, Mile 20, 16 Mile, Shwe Nyoung Bin, and Daw Pyan Lay).
IB-92 BC Kyaw Zwa Kho and 2nd BC Maung Thaung with 125 soldiers. Operating areas: Lone Bull, also guarded the Htone Bone hydropower site.
LIB-603 BC Kyaw Zay Ya and 2nd BC Hlaing Soe Than with 130 soldiers. Operating areas: Lake Tho, Kyauk Lone Kyi, Shan Ler Pyin, and Ba Hone.
IB-124 BC Kyaw Tun and 2nd BC Mya Tun with 125 soldiers. Operating areas: Than Taung
LIB-522, LIB-568, LIB-323 under SPDC Operational Control HQ #16 Operating areas: Taint Pu and Yetagun.
SPDC Activities
According to local leaders, the SPDC has sent 30,000 sacks of rice to their camps in Taw Oo District. More checkpoints being established in the lowland areas, more taxes collected, increase in forced labor to build and expand the camps as well as porter supplies. “Currently, as the movement of the SPDC was increasing; the living area of the villagers is also getting narrower and narrower.”
Specific SDPC HR Abuses:
N.d.-2-2006 Division 66, Military Tactical 663, LIB-108 and LIB-14, led by Column Commander Nay Myo Aung left Play Hsa Lo and encountered Play Hsa Lo villager, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 35) and Saw [Name Redacted] (age 30 years) at a betel-nut house and arrested them and then forced them to porter supplies.
2-2-2006 The troops engaged with KNLA troops at [Ta?] Bar Khee. Many SPDC troops were wounded and killed, “they got very angry and killed those two villagers.” “Before they killed the villager namely Saw [Name Redacted], the SPDC tortured him very seriously by cutting his ear, face, hand, and leg. Poking him with knife and later they cut his head [and he] died.”
9-2-2006 Another villager found his body, which had already gone “putrid.”
One month later, villagers found the bones and cloths of another village, Saw [Name Redacted].
5-4-2006 Operational Control HQ-16, Military Tactical 2 Commander and LIB-522 instructed (1) Hu Mu Der (2) Ler Kler Der (3) Kheh Der and (4) Haw Po Lo Villages to move to the Klaw Mi Der military camp by 18 April 2006.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 140
18-4-2006 Operational Control HQ-16, Military Tactical #2 Commander based at Play Hsa Lo “instructed 7 different villages of (1) Mwe Lo (2) Ta Bar Khee (3) Play Baw Der (4) Yo Lo (5) Play Hsa Lo (6) Ka Mu Lo and (7) Yu Lo to move to the relocation site by 20 April 2006. “Many of the villagers moved to the relocation site, and the rest are ran into the mountain side and hiding there.”
N.d.-4-2006 Operational Control HQ-16, which is based in Kler Mi Der Village, instructed LIB- 522 Column Commander Win Naung to inform all of the villagers that they had to move to Pa Leh Wa by 25 April 2006.
N.d. The SPDC also instructed residents of Kaw Thay Der and Klay Soe Villages (Ye Tho Kyi and Ye Tho Ka Lay) to start to move to Kler Ler (Baw Ka Li) on 1 June 2006 and to finish completely by 15 June 2006. Many of the villagers fled to the forest as a result.
7-2-2006 3 people injured by a landmine: Naw [Name Redacted] (age 25 / unmarried), Saw [Name Redacted] (26 / married) and Naw [Name Redacted] wife of Saw [Name Redacted]. Returning from Thandaung market to Haw Lu Der and on the way, and Saw [Name Redacted] stepped on SPDC mine near Gee Gaw Village and lost his left leg. Naw [Name Redacted] began to run away and stepped on another mine and lost his right leg. His wife, Naw [Name Redacted], walking beside him and was wounded as well. All three are receiving medical treatment in Thandaung Township.
27-4-2006 Troops [unspecified] entered Paw Mu Der Village and burnt down 7 houses. According to one of the owners, it occurred at around 11 am. Before entering the troops shelled the village, and everyone ran away without having time to bring anything with them. The troops then went to Hay Khee Village and burned down 4 villages there.
Perceived threats [rumors?] and reported incidents:
SPDC transporting 20 trucks filled with plastic pipes to make landmines. They estimate they have enough to make 30,000 total.
SPDC plans to make villagers from Kler Ler, Klay Soe, Kaw Thay Der and others nearby (about 3,000 people) porter military rations during rainy season when trucks cannot be used.
SPDC patrols have 1 man from a Western country accompanying them but they don’t know why.
SPDC patrol commandeers 14 oxen from villagers in Maw Nay Pwar.
SPDC patrols laid approximately 6,000 landmines along the Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee and Kaw Thay Der – Mo Khee Roads. 30 villagers already injured by them.
25-5-2006 SPDC troops gathered 800 villagers from Gar Mu Der, Kler Ler, Wa Tho Kho, Kaw Soe Khow, and Klay Soe to force them to porter military rations to the Tha Aye military camp (400) and to Naw Soe camp (400), respectively.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 141
SPDC troops using landmines more frequently than in the past.
SPDC troops have detained and interrogated many villagers from Kaw Thay Der and Klay Soe Khee at the churches in each.
A bomb exploded in Taw Oo Town [no date] and troop extorted money from the Karen living in it for the KNU attack. They reportedly collected 2,500,000 kyat, and told them to relocate to make way for another camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 142
ERI Impact Assessment
1 November 2006
SPDC activities 2 months after aid distribution
4-7-06 6 battalions (LIB-333, LIB-507, IB-240, IB-241, IB-561, IB-568 from MOC HQ #16, Military Tactical Strategy Command #2) entered Maw Nay Bwa area where Total from the following villages were hiding: Maw Thay Der, My Daw Kho, Khaw Tu Hto, Wa Mi Per Kho.
During the patrols, LIB-568 burnt Wa Mi Per Kho Village down and seized any property they found. The included: 5 cooking pots, 3 baskets of paddy, 1 waterproof canvas, 2 baskets of rice, 34 plates, 19 spoons, 5 mats, 14 viss of salt, 7 viss of fish paste, 1 mosquito net, 1 tea pot, 3 knives, and 7 sickles. One villager, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 16), from this village, stepped on a mine and lost a leg.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 143
Report Number CIDKP-2006-15
Date Submitted: 2 April 2007
Location: West Kayah State, south Thandaung Town, near Toungoo – Maw Chi Road
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Bwe
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 11 522 2,272
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-15, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-20, LIB-240, LIB-349, LIB-522, LIB-567, LIB- 568 Infantry Battalions IB-35, IB-73, IB-80 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 144
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-5, MOC-9 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 145
CIDKP-2006-15 ERA Request Summary 2 April 2007
Demographics:
2,272 people (522 households) from 11 villages in Thandaung Township. 388 children (212 girls and 176 boys) < 5 and 1,266 females and 1,118 males > 5.
KNU: Maw Nay Bwe area in Htaw Hta Htoo Township (Toungoo District). The area is west of the Karenni State border, south of Thandaung Town, and close to the Taungoo – Maw Chi Road.
Rationale:
LIB-522, 567, 568 and 240 (under MOC 16, based in Bawgali and MOC 15, based in Bu Hsa Khi) have been conducting patrols in the area from June-November of 2006. During this period, troops have burned or destroyed 47 houses in the 7 villages included in this request.
SPDC patrols indiscriminately shot villagers on sight. 5 villagers were killed and 2 wounded while working on their farms or travelling outside villages between February and September 2006. Another person was arrested and later killed in June (names are provided in the request).
During these operations troops looted more than 8,000,000 kyat worth of property: tape recorders, cooking utensils, tools, watches, sewing machines, clothes, and farm animals.
All 11 villages covered in the request received relocation orders, 3 of which actually forced to move. As a result, 300 acres of paddy fields and 150 acres of peanut fields (estimated value = 487,000 Baht) were abandoned.
380 baskets of rice, 125 baskets of paddy either burnt along with the houses or mixed with kerosene. 29 paddy fields had to be abandoned due to military operations causing a loss of approximately 1,400 baskets of rice.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 146
CIDKP ERA Request 19 November 2006
Background:
Scorched earth campaigns began in 1997 and periodically targeted again since then. Until 2005, KYO, KWO, KTWG, and KESAN could carry out some activities in the area.
Mountainous and the largest river is the Yaw Loe Khlo. The main car road runs from Toungoo to Kler Lar, but from Kler Lar to Bu Hsa Khi camp can only be used during the dry season.
Security Situation:
1-2006 LID-66 entered Taw Oo District and instituted travel restrictions, landmines planted on paths, and the market was banned. Caused significant food insecurity because soils for paddy are poor and population is dependent on growing cash crops to trade/sell for rice.
2-2006 Troops [not specified extend search-and-destroy operations to Mone Township, Kler Lwee Htoo Township (Nyaunglebin), and then to Ler Doh (Kyaukkgyi) and Hsaw Hti (Shwegyin) Townships in Kler Lwee Htoo District.
3-2006 Troops [not specified] light forest fires along the Kaw Thay Der and Bu Hsa Khi car road, which destroyed many nearby plantations.
4-2006 During the final week the operations are extended yet again to include northwestern Mu Traw (Hpapun) District).
Bases: LID-66 HQ based at Kler Lar (Bawgaligyi) MOC/OCH 16 HQ and LIB-568 based at Play Hsar Loe and Klaw Me Der (Yetakun) MOC/OCH 15 based at Bu Sar Khi
Battalions active in the Maw Nay Bwa Area: LIB-240 BC Htin Kyaw Oo LIB-567 BC Myint Thein IB-80 BC Kyaw Thu Ya
Hgaw Po Loe and Mwi Loe Villages
10-20-7-2006 LIB-522, LIB-567, and LIB-568 from OCH 16 entered both villages and burned down houses belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] and [Name Redacted] and looted their belongings.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 147
17-20-7-2006 One person from per house from the following villages were forced to porter rice from Play Hsar Loe to Ta Pa Khi: Play Hsa Loe, Yer Loe, Pau Pa, Lay Hgo Loe, and Plan Baw Der.
Ler Klar Der Village
25-2-2006 IB-35, led by BC Myo Tun, under LID-66, shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (age 43) and his brother Saw [Name Redacted] (age 40), sons of Saw [Name Redacted], as they were returning from their paddy fields.
15-6-2006 LIB-522, led by 2nd BC Kyaw Zwa Min, under OCH/MOC 16, destroyed 18 houses by detaching the roof and walls, mixed rice with kerosene (about 50 baskets of rice ruined) and other personal items worth an estimated 1,100,000 kyat.
19-7-2006 LIB-522, led by 2nd BC Kyaw Zwa Min, under OCH/MOC 16, shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (age 25), son of Saw [Name Redacted], and Saw [Name Redacted] (age 45), son of Saw [Name Redacted], in their betel-nut orchard.
8-8-2006 LIB-522, led by 2nd BC Kyaw Zwa Min, under OCH/MOC 16, shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (age 75) in his farmhouse.
Keh Der and Hu Me Der Village
13-6-2006 LIB-567, under OCH/MOC-16, arrested Saw [Name Redacted] (age 38), son of [Name Redacted], from Khe Der. He was taken away and later found killed in the jungle.
13-18-6-2006 LIB-567 destroyed 7 houses (including one wooden one) by detaching the roof from the walls, about 30 baskets of rice, fish paste, salt, cloth, cooking utensils, one Klo (a prized bronze drum), etc.
Klaw Me Der Village
3-2006 During the last week OCH/MOC 16 ordered this village to relocate, but was not told where.
8-6-2006 LIB-570, under OCH/MOC 16, detached 60 roofing sheets made of zinc (worth about 360,000 kyat) and brought them back to their base near Klaw Me Der. They looted the homes, taking about 2,500,000 kyat worth of goods, and mixed rice with kerosene (150 baskets of rice lost).
22-9-2006 Saw [Name Redacted] (age 70) was shot and wounded in his betel-nut orchard at Nwa Lar Gone.
Wah Loe and Swa Loe Village
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 148
7-10-8-2006 LIB-20, led by officer Than Hlaing, entered both villages and burned down 20 houses. Losses included 30 baskets of rice. 29 plots of paddy (which would have produced about 1,400 baskets of paddy) and 35 plots of groundnuts (expected yield of 1,500 baskets worth about 15,000,000 kyat) eaten/destroyed by wild pigs and rats.
Htee Loe, K’ser Doh and Pae Taw Day Villages
Mid-July-2006 IB-73 ordered all three villages to relocate to the plain, which is when people are busy with their rice and groundnuts. Some villagers moved to Shar Ze Bo, while others went to Shwe Ta Zaung and Bon Ma Tee. People lost 60 paddy fields (about 300 acres) and 90 plots of groundnuts (about 150 acres).
14-10-2006 LIB-349, led by BC Zaw Tun, shot and wounded Saw [Name Redacted] (age 40), son of [Name Redacted], from Pae Twa Day, while on his way back to his village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 149
ERA Distribution Report
Livelihood:
Based on upland cultivation plus betelnut, durian, cardamom, dog fruit, and making leaf-roofs in summer are other sources of income.
Logistics:
54 days (12-1-2007 – 6-3-2007). Distribution for Maw Nay Bwa carried out in the Paw Ku Saw Khi jungle and for Kay Thay Der in the Htee Daw jungle due to security concerns. MOC-15 rotated with LID-88 and LID-66 and MOC-16 changed with MOC-9, which led to increased security patrols along the road and surrounding area. Distribution occurred in 10 different locations.
Current Military Situation
MOC/OCH 5 based at Kler Lar (Bawgaligyi) Troops under its command based at Naw Soe (Maung Taing Gyi), Kaw Thay Der (Ye Tho Gyi), and Maw Pah Der (Pyaung Tho) camps.
MOC/OCH 9 based at Play Hsa Loe and Klaw Me Der (Yetakun)
LID-88 based at Bu Hsa Khi
May Naw Bwa area
2-1-2007 Troops [not specified] forced villagers to fence their villages as well as all military outposts within one week’s time. Cutting down the trees for fence poles reduced their incomes by 60-70% because they would no longer be able to use the leaves to make roof sections.
18-1-2007 onwards MOC-9, located in Klaw Me Der, launched 1-3 mortar shells into the area every day; many betel-nut, durian, and cardamom plantations were destroyed. Klaw Me Der villager shot and killed as he was returning from his plantation by MOC-16 troops in Kli Hta area.
Kaw Thay Der area
26-1-2007 Trucks from Kaw Tha Der begin ferrying military supplies from Taungoo to Kler Lar and Kaw Thay Der. Villagers from Kaw Thay Der area forced to porter supplies to Naw Soe and Bu Sar Khi camps (ongoing through report date).
15-16 and 18-19-2-2007 Two helicopters transported military supplies to Bu Hsa Khi (5 trips total).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 150
ERA Distribution Summary
No. Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hgaw Po Loe 16 36 43 5 5 89 2 Mwe Loe 29 64 82 11 18 175 3 Ler Klar Der 39 101 92 14 10 217 4 Hu Me Der 61 126 140 26 39 331 5 Htee Loe 14 25 34 3 4 66 6 Klaw Me Der 116 269 326 31 44 670 7 K’Ser Doh 75 128 158 18 25 329 8 Pae Taw Day 59 129 145 34 25 333 9 Swa Loe 38 87 76 8 12 183 10 Wah Loe 19 40 51 5 6 102 11 Keh Der 51 113 119 21 24 277 517 1,118 1,266 176 212 2,772
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 151
Report Number CIDKP-2006-16
Date Submitted: 19 November 2006
Location: Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, south of Thandaung Town
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Haw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 5 409 2,173
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-15, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-14, LIB-568 Infantry Battalions IB-1, IB-10, IB-11 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-5, MOC-9, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-66, LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 152
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 153
CIDKP-2006-16 ERA Request Summary 19 November 2006
Demographics:
2,173 people (409 households) from 5 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Kaw Thay Der area, Htaw Te Htoo Township, Taw Oo District.
Area: West of the Karenni State border, near the Taungoo – Maw Chi Road, south of Thandaung Town.
Rationale:
SPDC operations since January of 2006 have heavily affected 12 villages near the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, though the ERA request targets only 4 of them. These villages are located north of the area covered in CIDKP-2006-15.
CIDKP-2006-15 covers areas under MOC-16 control. This area is primarily patrolled by LID-66, based in Bawgaligyi, which has been conducting operations since January. Other units mentioned in the request: LIB-14, LIB-568, and IB-1, IB-10, and IB-11.
Livelihoods based on cardamom, betel nut/leaf, durian, and mangosteen due to poor soils, which limit paddy production. SPDC patrols have undermined food security by restricting movement and ability to sell products at market or to traders. Destruction of orchards has exacerbated this problem. In July, troops burnt two betel nut orchards (valued at 1,000,000 kyat / 32,500 baht) to protect troops from ambush. Forced labor has also affected their ability to tend and to harvest cash crops.
Troops using forced labor (one person/household) cleared both sides of the Toungoo – Maw Chi Road, between Kaw Ter Der and the Naw Soe military camp, to provide greater security. The SPDC announced it would “shoot villagers on sight travelling on or within 50 yards of the road.”
Each of the 12 villages are forced to provide 13 villagers daily to serve as guards, sentries, runners, etc. at the SPDC camp nearest to them.
New town project in Bu Hsa Khi. In July, the SPDC demanded money (315,000 kyat) in “taxes” from neighboring villages to “pay” it. Villages located along the road had to build fences around settlements and to pay for all expenses, totaling 10.9 million kyat (6,680,000 for materials and 4,195,000 labor costs, i.e., 350,300 baht).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 154
ERA Request: 25 October 2006
Affected areas:
Kaw Thay Der, Maw Pah Der, Kaw Soe Koh, Ler Ko, War Tho Kho Villages in Htaw Te Htoo (Tantabin) Township, Toungoo (Taw Oo) District
Background
Mountainous area with the Yaw Loe Klo River as the largest one. The primary car road runs from Toungoo to Kler Lar, but the section from Kler Lar to Bu Hsa Khi can be used during the dry season. The area has been subjected to periodic military offensives since the “Four Cuts” in 1975. However, the SPDC did not begin to establish permanent military camps until after the 1997 “Scorched Earth” campaigns. Search-and-Destroy missions occurred every 2-3 years since then, hence the shift to gathering fruit and cardamom seeds in the forest to purchase rice. KYO, KWO, KTWG, and KESAN were able to carry out activities in the area until 2005 when the offensive began.
Military Operations
LID-66 entered Taw Oo (Taungoo) in January of 2006 and instituted severe travel restrictions. Troops laid landmines in fields and gardens as well as along paths. Markets were banned.
Beginning in February, SPDC troops [not specified] extended their operations into Mone Township, in Kler Lwee Htoo District (i.e., northern Nyaunglebin District, which borders Taw Oo—east of Tantabin, south by southeast of Thandaung). The pattern of search-and-destroy was the same.
Beginning in March, SDPC troops [not specified] set fire to the forests bordering the Kaw Thay Der and Bu Hsa Khi Road, which destroyed many gardens, especially cardamom plantations.
During the last week of April, military operations extended into far northwestern Mu Traw (Papun) District, which also borders Taw Oo.
Current Military Situation
LID-66 HQ is based at Kler Lar (Bawgaligyi). It patrols the Kaw Thay Der area.
MOC-16 and LIB-568 headquaters is based at Play Hsar Loe and Klaw Me Der (Yetakun)
MOC-15 is based in Bu Sar Khi.
Tactical Command No. 661 is based in Naw Soe (Maung Taing Gyi).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 155
IB-10 is based in Kaw Thay Gyi (Ye Tho Gyi).
IB-1 is based in Maw Pah Der (Pyaung Tho).
13 people from each of the following 12 villages have to provide labor everyday (6 sentries, 5 emergency porter, and 2 messengers): Maw Pah Der, Kler Lar, Kaw Soe Kho, Kaw Thay Der, Klay Soe Khi, War Tho Kho, Ler Ko, Gar Mu Der, Der Doh, Per Kaw Der, Ku Thay Der, and Maw Kho Der.
26/5/06-31/5/06 People from the above villages had to transport one sack of rice, other foods (e.g. beans and sardines), cooking oil, sugar, condensed milk, etc. from Kaw Thay Der to the Naw Soe military camp.
4/7/06-7/7/06 Villages near the Kaw Thay Der – Naw Soe Car Road had to send one person/household to clear brush away from the road.
15/7/06 LIB-14, led by BC Soe Myint, destroyed betel nut orchards belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted]from Kaw Thay Der Village. Over 20,000 seedlings destroyed (valued at approximately 1 million kyat). The troops explained that they did so to avoid ambushes. “People not allowed to walk between 50 yards from the car road side, those who walk will be shot without any question.” Villagers also informed that they must have a travel pass to go to their orchards (100 kyat/day) and that they are no longer permitted to spend the night. They are additionally forbidden from selling cardamom seeds, which is a severe hardship for households that rely upon it to meet their food needs.
7/10/06-11/10/06 People from the above villages had to transport rations (as above to Naw Soe military camp).
LID-66 HQ demanded every household in the above villages to contribute to the new town project at Bu Hsa Khi during the 3rd week of July. They had to collect and give them 315,000 kyat.
20/7/06-31/7/06 Villages in the Kaw Thay Der area near the car road had to fence their villages by buying 6,680 bamboo poles (total cost: 6,680,000 kyat). They also had to pay the labor costs (total cost: 4,195,000 kyat).
31/10/06 IB-11, led by BC Han Moe Aung, shot and killed [Name Redacted], from Kaw Thay Der Village, in his orchard.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 156
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M F Total 1 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Thay Der 161 457 471 928 2 Kaw Thay Der Maw Pah Der 52 150 132 282 3 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Doe Koh 112 244 270 514 4 Kaw Thay Der Ler Kho 35 66 82 148 5 Kaw Thay Der War Tho Kho 49 148 153 301 409 1,065 1,108 2,173
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 157
CIDKP-2006-16 ERA Distribution Summary 2 April 2007
Demographics:
Assistance provided to 2,173 people (409 households) from 5 villages. 298 children < 5 (148 girls and 148 boys) and 963 females and 914 males > 5.
Logistics:
12 January 2007 – 6 March 2007 (53 days). Distribution carried out in Hgaw Htee Daw jungle for the Kaw Thay Der area at 10 different locations due to increased SPDC patrols, especially along the car road due to rotations.
Military Situation Since ERA Request
MOC-15 “changed position” [rotated] with LID-88 and LID-66 & MOC-5 and MOC-16 “changed position” with MOC-9 between 24-26 January 2007.
SPDC troops launched mortars (1-3 shells/day) into presumed IDP hiding places and their plantations.
People forced to build fences for their villages and military outposts. Villagers forced to porter supplies from Taungoo to the Bu Hsa Khi base camp on an ongoing basis.
Bases:
MOC-5 headquarters at Kler Lar Troops based at Naw Soe (Maung Taing Gyi), Kaw Thay Der (Ye Tho Gyi), and Maw Pah Der (Pyaung Tho)
MOC-9 base at Play Hsar Loe and Klaw Me Der (Yetakun)
LID-88 base at Bu Hsa Khi
Maw Nay Bwa area
20-27/1/2007 onwards villagers had to fence their villages and military outposts within one week. Trees used to provide roofing leaves cut down by [unnamed] people from western Tantabin Township, which destroyed a renewable resource [for own homes and for sale to others], reducing their income by 60-70%.
28/1/07 MOC-16 troops shot and killed [Name Redacted] from Hu Me Der Village in the Kli Hta area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 158
18/2/07 MOC-9 begins shelling from Klaw Me Der using heavy weapons, targeting plantations (betel nut, durian, cardamom, etc.) in the Maw Nay Bwa area. 1-3 shells launched/day. Total losses not yet known.
Kaw Thay Der area
26/1/07 Trucks from Kaw Tha Der forced to transport military supplies from Taungoo to Kler Lar and Kaw That Der. Villagers forced to porter supplies to Naw Soe and Bu Hsa Khi up to report date. Travel restrictions prevent people from traveling to town to buy food and goods.
15-16 and 18-19/2/07 two helicopters ferried military supplies to Bu Hsa Khee (5 trips total).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 159
Report Number KORD-2007-05
Date Submitted: 26 February 2007
Location: Kaw Thay Der and Paw Nay Pwa Village Tracts
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der Maw Nay Pwa
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 17 358 2,285
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-15, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-108, LIB-532, LIB-551, LIB-567 Infantry Battalions IB-10, IB-35, IB-240 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 160
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-37, LIB-354, LIB-566 Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 161
KORD-2007-05 26 February 2007
Demographics:
2,285 people (358 households) from 17 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts, Htaw Ta Htu Township, Taw Oo District.
Highland “black” hiding area. Villagers flee when SPDC troops approach. Hillside paddy and cardamom provide food and income.
Rationale:
IB-240, and LIB-567 (MOC-16) and LIB-108, IB-10, IB-35 (LID-66) and LIB-551, LIB-352 (MOC-15) deployed patrols two times during 2006 (August 1-16 and September 28 – November 22). Patrols destroyed food and belongings or looted, landmines planted along footpaths, indiscriminate shooting (including the use of mortars) of civilians.
During the first patrol: 100 rice fields destroyed. The remainder had significantly reduced harvests.
During the second patrol: 140 rice fields destroyed and 900 tins of rice, 755 viss of betel nut, 1,220 viss of cardamom seed, and unspecified amount of personal belongings seized.
5 September Female villager (age 20) stepped on a landmine.
29 September Boy (age 14) shot and killed.
12 October Troops [unspecified] fire 25 mortars into paddy fields and hiding places in the area.
7 November Two men shot and killed.
22 November Two men shot and killed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 162
ERA Request 30 December 2006
Location:
Kaw Thay Der and Paw Nay Pwa Village Tracts
Period:
August 1-August 26 & September 28-November 22
Military Units and Commanders Indentified:
OCH-16 LIB-567: n/a IB-240: BC Tin Kyaw Soe
OCH-15 LIB-352: BC Aung Khant LIB-551: BC Tin Htun Aung
LID-66 IB-35: BC Soe Htun LIB-108: BC Aung Kyaw Oo IB-10: BC Soe Myint IB-6: BC Aung Soe Win
Military Operations:
8/06 SPDC battalions (above) began operations in Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nay Pwa Village Tracts.
1/8/06 IB-240 and LIB-567 (MOC-16) departed Phlay Hsa Lo camp and entered Maw Nay Pwa to clear and patrol the areas surrounding Si Daw Kho, Pway Baw Der, Saw Mu Der, Wa Mi Per Kho, Sa Wa Daw Kho, and Pho Mu Der Villages.
16/8/06 8 battalions returned to Phlay Hsa Lo camp. During the patrols, troops destroyed and/or seized food and personal belongings, and laid landmines along paths, in fields, and in gardens.
5/8/06 Naw [Name Redacted] (age 20) from Saw Mu Der, stepped on a landmine in the area.
28/7-16/10 IB-240 and LIB-567 patrolled Pho Mu Der, Sa Wa Daw Kho, Saw Mu Der, Pyaw Baw Der, and Si Daw Kho. Troops again seized and/or destroyed food and belongings. Troops also fired at people and into suspected hiding places using small machine guns and mortars. Much of the harvest was ruined as a result. 100 fields totally destroyed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 163
28/9 LIB-108, IB-10, IB-35 under LID-66, and LIB-351, LIB-352 under MOC-15 (based in Bu Hsa Khee, Plo Mu Der, Si Kheh Der, and Naw Soe camps) began patrols in Kaw Thay Der Village Tract, where 11 villages are located. 140 paddy fields totally destroyed and 900 tins of rice, 755 viss of betel nut, 1,220 viss of cardamom seed, and unspecified amount of personal belongings seized.
29/9 Saw [Name Redacted] (age 14) killed in the May Daw Kho area.
12/10 IB-10 and IB-15 troops, patrolling both village tracts, fired 10 mortars into fields belonging to Hsaw Wa Der villagers, and another 15 mortars into their suspected hiding areas.
7/11 LIB-35 entered and patrolled the Hsaw Wa Der area and shot and killed two men: Saw [Name Redacted] (age 45) and Naw [Name Redacted] (age 19).
22/11 IB-6 patrolled the Hsaw Wa Der area shot and killed two people while they were returning from Kaw Thay Der: Saw [Name Redacted] (age 42) and Saw [Name Redacted] (age 37). These troops returned to Kler La and Kaw Thay Der camps that same day.
IDPs in urgent need of food. They are currently relying on people with connections to Kler La and Kaw Thay Der residents. The latter is a 2-3 day walk, but troop movements limit access.
Background:
Patrols are designed to clear the area and increase security for the new division capital in Taungoo Town.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 164
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Maw Nay Pwa Pho Mu Der 5 34 2 Maw Nay Pwa Sa Wa Daw Kho 23 145 3 Maw Nay Pwa Wa Mi Per Kho 33 232 4 Maw Nay Pwa Saw Mu Der 19 155 5 Maw Nay Pwa Pway Baw Der 12 73 6 Maw Nay Pwa Si Daw Kho 26 298 7 Kaw Thay Der Law Bee Ler 15 90 8 Kaw Thay Der Maw Thay Der 21 100 9 Kaw Thay Der May Daw Kho 19 115 10 Kaw Thay Der Per Lo 10 69 11 Kaw Thay Der Khaw Tu Hto 26 144 12 Kaw Thay Der Si Kheh Der 23 135 13 Kaw Thay Der Tha Kwee So 8 50 14 Kaw Thay Der Plo Mu Der 4 26 15 Kaw Thay Der Bu Hsa Khee 22 115 16 Kaw Thay Der Hsaw Wa Der 64 348 17 Kaw Thay Der Khu Ler Der 28 156 358 2,285
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 165
ERA Distribution Summary 18 May 2007
Demographics:
Beneficiaries included 1,109 males and 1,176 females, approximately half of whom under the age of 10.
Logistics:
Departed 6 April 2007 and Returned 11 May (35 days).
Military Situation Update (2007)
The area is in close proximity to the frontlines. Fighting is frequent and SPDC human rights abuses frequent. Recent incidents include:
12/3/07 Boy (age 15), from Saw Mu Der, shot and killed while fishing with his father [see below: wounded in neck and hand, not killed].
4/4/07 Troops [not specified] entered May Thay Der Village firing their weapons. A boy (age 8) wounded.
14/4/07 Troops [not specified] fired guns at Hsi Daw Kho villagers while in the Tha Ka Pher Lu region returning from the Wah Khee market. No injuries reported.
15/4/07 Troops [not specified] shot and killed two Hsaw Wa Der villagers while they were returning from church.
19/4/07 Troops [not specified] captured a woman from Htaw Ma Aye Village while she was on her way to buy betel nut. She has not been seen since.
HR Situation Update [Events prior to mid-June 2007]
Htaw Ta Htu Township regarded by SPDC troops to be a “Black area, known as shot on sight area.”
Hiding areas in the deep forest located approximately 1 hour’s walk from nearest SPDC outposts.
Due to frequency of patrols, IDPs must relocate frequently: “They had to move their villages from place to place like as mobile villages.”
Villagers report that since the beginning of 2007 SPDC troops stationed themselves near Maw Thay Der Village for one month. The village is located about a ninety-minute walk from the Naw Soe military camp. People did not dare go to their working sites as a result.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 166
12/3/07 SPDC troops shot and wounded Saw [Name Redacted] (age 15) while fishing with his father. Wounded in neck and hand.
6/4/07 SPDC troops entered the village and fired shots. One villager, [Name Redacted] (age 8), was injured.
14/4/07 SPDC troops shot at villagers from Hsi Daw Kho while they were travelling through the Tha Ka Per Lu region to buy rice at the Wah Khee market (Kler Lwi Htu District).
15/4/07 SPDC troops [unit and commander not known] shot and killed 2 Hsaw Wa Der villagers while returning from church.
19/4/07 SPDC troops captured Naw Mu [Name Redacted] from Htaw Ma Aye Village while en route with three other men to buy betel nut. The three men fled and escaped. She has not been seen since.
No date 1 SPDC soldier (Arakanese) defected claiming constant abuse and torture; he cited his missing two teeth as evidence.
Fighting very frequent in Htaw Ta Htu Township where the distribution occurred. Report that landmines exploded almost daily. SPDC troops also burned the areas along the car road to cause KNLA landmines to explode. Many fields and gardens located nearby damaged, or destroyed in the process.
Living Conditions Update:
Soil quality in fields in remote areas (to avoid SPDC patrols) is poor. SPDC troops increasingly able to locate and destroy them as well.
Patrols often force people trying to buy rice in Kaw Thay Der market to return. Night trips increasingly common, but very dangerous as well. Markets in the Kar Hta and Kleh Mu region require a two to three day walk. Market rates: 12,000 kyat/tin.
Currently, SPDC troops do not permit people to transport Ajinomoto [MSG] from lowland to highland areas, claiming villagers use it to treat wounds.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 167
KORD 2007-05 ERA Impact Assessment Summary 25 January 2008
Market Impact:
Accessing markets, including jungle ones, is very difficult (hiding area), but KNLA troops often provide security for trips, typically at night to avoid patrols. Due to travel restrictions and patrols, it is very difficult for lowland traders to meet highland populations in pre-arranged places. ERA did not affect local prices, however, transportation restrictions and difficulties (terrain) as well as inflation did.
ERA primarily used to purchase rice. Some also used for household purchases, to invest in livestock, and/or repay their loans.
SPDC patrols increased after ERA distribution and villages had to flee again. Approximately 600 of them went to the Ei Thu Hta IDP border camp. The patrols were part of the offensive against the KNLA and not related to the ERA.
Follow-Up Military Operations Report (3 months post-ERA distribution)
Post-distribution SPDC troops established 5 camps: Kler Kaw Hti, Wa Tho Kho, Klaw Klay Day, Ter Lah Day, and Ta Lo Per regions.
LIB-354, LIB-37, and LIB-566 continued to patrol Kho Khee area as well.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 168
Report Number KORD-2007-06
Date Submitted: 26 February 2007
Location: Daw Pha Kho Township
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho Klay Wa Mu Nu
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 8 533 3,307
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions IB-1, IB-4, IB-11, IB-14 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66, LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-346 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 169
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 170
KORD-2007-06 ERA Request Summary 26 February 2007
Demographics:
3,307 people (533 households) from 8 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Klay Wa Mu Nu Village Tract, Daw Pha Kho Township, Taw Oo District
Highland mixed administration area that both SPDC and KNU troops can reach. Shifting cultivation and cardamom seeds are the livelihoods.
Rationale:
SPDC IB-11, IB-14, IB-4, and IB-1 of LIB-66 patrolled the area from September 1 through November 21 of 2006 (i.e. harvest time) resulting in forced labor, portering, extortion, as well as crop and income losses.
Travel restrictions imposed. “If someone found [traveling they] would be shot dead without questioning.” Landmines placed along paths and [troops] “ambushed the villagers as well.”
250 fields (would have produced 45,000 baskets of paddy and 7,000 viss of cardamom seeds) destroyed.
Post-September 29 villagers permitted to travel once/week provided they had a pass from the headman. Cost: 200 kyat/time. Villagers not permitted to stay in fields or gardens overnight.
September 13 SPDC troops [not specified] order traders in Taungoo market not to buy or sell cardamom seeds, mangosteen, durian, and betel nut. People found violating the ban “will be punished by 8 year detention.”
Villagers forced to rebuild 2 car roads: Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee and Klay So Khee – Pay Mu Kho (trucks and cars banned; anyone found driving is arrested); porter military supplies and rations to frontline camps; had to pay porter fees, and travel through areas with landmines.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 171
KORD ERA Request 1 January 2007
Location
Klay Wa Mu Nu Village Tract, Daw Pha Kho, Daw Pha Kho Township, Taw Ooo District
Period
September 1 – November 21, 2006
Military Units and Commanders Identified
LID-66 IB-11 BC Han Mu Aung, 2nd BC Aung Than Htwe IB-14 BC Nay Myo Aung, 2nd BC Yeh Minn Thu IB-4 BC Htun Hlaing, 2nd BC Win Zaw Oo IB-1 BC Khin Zaw Aung, 2nd BC Aung Minn
Military Operations
SPDC troops have patrolled the highland mixed administration for years.
1/9/07 LID-66 Division Commander, based in Ler La camp, instructed the above four battalions [IB-11, IB-14, IB-4, and IB-1] (based in Maw Kho Der and Tha Aye Hta camps) to “set up an offensive” in Klay Wa Mu Nu Village Tract.
Between September 2 and 25, these four battalions conducted patrols in the area. Residents of Maw Pha Der, Khu Plaw Der, Pae Kaw Der, Maw Ko Der, Der Do, Maw Thay Der, Klay Soe Khee, and Ga Mu Der instructed not to leave their villages. “If they found any villagers going out of the villages, they will regard [them] as their enemy and kill them straight away.” Troops laid landmines and “ambushed” people en route to their fields and gardens. Travel restrictions, weather, and animals destroyed the harvest, an estimated 45,000 baskets of paddy and 7,000 viss of cardamom seed from 250 fields and gardens.
13/9/07 SOC Commander [not named] instructed Taungoo market not to buy/sell cardamom seeds, mangosteen, durian, and betel nut. People found violating the ban subject to “8 years detention.” Transport of these cash crops (by car or truck) forbidden too. Drivers subject to arrest and imprisonment.
29/9/07 People permitted to travel with a day pass (200 kyat/trip, once per week) from this date onwards.
Ongoing [October-November?] LIB-66 Division Commander instructed four battalions [IB-11, IB-14, IB-4, and IB-1] to forced residents in the following 12 villages to rebuild and clean two card roads (Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee and Klay So Khee – Pay Mu Kho): 1) Kler La; 2)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 172
Kaw Thay Der; 3) Kaw Kho Kho; 4) Wa Tho Kho; 5) Ler Kho; 6) Klay So Khee; 7) Ga Mu Der; 8) Der Do; 9) Maw Ko Der; 10) Pae Kaw Der; 11) Khu Plaw Der; and 12) Maw Pha Der.
Ongoing [October-November?] Villagers in the area forced to porter rations and ammunition to frontline military camps, e.g. Tha Aye Hta, Naw So, Bu Hsa Khee, and Pay Mu Kho. Area infested with landmines. Porters also required to pay a fee.
21/11/07 Four battalions [IB-11, IB-14, IB-4, and IB-1] withdraw to Maw Ko Der and Tha Aye Hta camps.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Klay Wa Mu Nu Maw Pha Der 78 470 2 Klay Wa Mu Nu Khu Plaw Der 48 300 3 Klay Wa Mu Nu Pae Kaw Der 167 897 4 Klay Wa Mu Nu Maw Kyo Der 42 280 5 Klay Wa Mu Nu Der Do 70 460 6 Klay Wa Mu Nu Naw Thay Der 14 140 7 Klay Wa Mu Nu Klay Soe Khee 78 480 8 Klay Wa Mu Nu Ga Mu Der 36 280 533 3,307
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 173
ERA Distribution Summary 17 May 2007
Demographics:
ERA distributed as per original request: 1,635 females and 1,672 males, approximately 1/5th of whom were under 10 years of age.
Logistics:
6 April – 15 May 2007 (5 weeks). ERA distributed in two locations: Thandaung Township and Htaw Ta Htu Township. Both roads (Kyauk Kyi – Hsaw Hta and Taw Oo – Maw Chi) extremely difficult and dangerous to cross due to frequency of patrols and number of landmines along it, which made it risky to cross quickly.
Situation Update (2007):
Since early 2007 LID-66 and LID-88 have forced villagers to porter rations and ammunition to frontline camps to reconstruct roads and bridges to facilitate resupply.
18/4 LIB-346 arrests a Peh Kaw Der villager and brings him to Mon Kho Der camp.
KORD reports seeing many burned and abandoned during trip. Local villagers report that some burned within last 4-5 months, others the previous year.
Human Rights Update:
12/06 SPDC Troops [LID-66 and LID- 88] entered the area. Troops forced villagers to porter supplies, reconstruct roads and bridges, etc. Villagers forced to walk alongside bulldozers to prevent KNLA attack.
2/07 SPDC troops commandeered villagers’ cars from Kaw Thay Der and Kler La and forced them to transport rations to frontline areas (from Kler Lar to Tha Aye Hta). A car hit a landmine at Ko Dae and was damaged and the driver killed. SPDC troops forced villagers to transport the supplies on foot. The car owner was not compensated.
16/4/07 LIB-346 [under LID-66 command] engaged with KNLA at Kler Lar. SPDC troops captured a Khu Plo Der villager, Saw [Name Redacted], returning from a market. Detained him in a 13-ft. hole at their camp. Troops refused all requests from family and the headman to see him. His status is unknown. 8 villagers [not named] also captured due to ongoing skirmishes.
184 07 LIB-346, commanded by Yan Naing, arrested Saw [Name Redacted], of Peh Kaw Der Village, and took him to Mon Ko Der camp. He was told if his parents are found outside the village “they would be shot dead without questioning.” The troops forced to village to provide him with his daily food and imposed severe travel restrictions, preventing lowland traders from openly selling rice to highland populations. Much of the area reported burnt from SPDC-lit fires.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 174
ERA Impact Assessment Summary 25 January 2008
Clandestine pre-arranged trips to buy/sell goods with lowland traders continue to be the norm. “No one dare to go to the market place alone.” Typically 3-4 families travel together.
KNLA sometimes also escort people to purchase rice and/or provide them information on SPDC patrols so they can avoid them.
Price of rice increased somewhat after distribution, but KORD attributes this to inflation and travel restrictions, not the aid. No reports of food or other items stolen from the recipients.
Human Rights Update:
Forced labor, extortion, looting remain common.
2 skirmishes following the distribution and SPDC troops arrested and tortured two people: one from Peh Kaw Der and one from Maw Pha Der.
Incident one [no date]: The former attributed to a case of mistaken identity; a KNLA soldier shot a SPDC soldier in Kay Thay Der Village. The villager’s name in Peh Kaw Der Village was quite similar and the SPDC troops arrested him and transported him to Taungoo town were he was imprisoned.
Incident two (20 August 2007): firefight near Maw Pha Der Village. SPDC troops arrested Naw [Name Redacted], wrapped her face in cloth, and then took her to Kler La camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 175
Report Number CIDKP-2007-19
Date Submitted: 6 September 2007
Location: East of Tantabin Town and Sittaung River, adjacent to southern boundary of Daw Pa Kho Township.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Toungoo Tantabin n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Bwa
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 6 182 1,044
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-9 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-375, LIB-539, LIB-540 Infantry Battalions Other Tactical Command 2
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-4, MOC-5, MOC-9, MOC-10, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions IB-73, IB-75 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 176
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 177
CIDKP-2007-19 ERA Summary 6 September 2007
Demographics:
1,044 people (182 households) from 6 villages in Htan Tabin Township, Pegu Division. KNU: Maw Nay Bwa area, Htaw Hta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District. 244 children (81 girls and 163 boys) < 5 and 446 females and 414 males > 5.
Area: located east of Tantabin Town and Sittaung River, adjacent to southern boundary of Thandaung (Daw Pa Kho) Township.
Rationale:
April – June LIB-540, LIB-375, IB-539 of MOC-9 deployed their patrols in the area, forcing villagers to porter supplies, burning their plantations, imposing travel restrictions, building military camps, constructing roads, and using them as sentries. More than 700 people in all, 3 of them were killed [Unclear whether summary execution or willful killing.
CIDKP documented 22 betel nut plantations, 27 cardamom gardens, and 8 houses burnt by troops.
Villagers forced to construct he new car road from Tha Pye Nyunt Village to Play Hsar Loe Village (approximately 16 miles) without pay. SPDC promised to provide them with travel documents so they could sell their fruit and vegetables in Tha Pye Nyunt, but they did not, so food, valued at millions of kyat, were ruined.
4 new military outposts established and travel more restricted than normal. Landmines also planted.
Due to forced relocations in 2006, IDPs have spread in different directions—some to hiding sites in the Per Hti area, some to relocation sites (Play Hsar Loe Village), some to the IDPs camps near the border.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 178
CIDKP-2007-19 ERA Request n.d.
Situation Analysis
Area targeted for “Four Cuts” during 1974-1975, and the “Scorched Earth” campaigns between 1992-1997 in KNU-controlled areas. Search-and-destroy missions increased in 2006.
Villagers in Play Hsar Loe area subject to forced labor during all of 2006 and 2007, and travel restrictions enacted. “The villagers have to go out very secretly to work for their families. When the villagers go out of the village to work, they have to cross the Burmese army troops who will shot them without question.”
The Play Hsar Loe relocation village is “too narrow” forcing 2-3 families to reside in the same house. Water is scarce during the summer.
During the rainy season MOC-9 Tactical No. 2 carries out operations east of Play Hsar Loe Village. Tactical Commander, Saw Tay Soe, oversees LIB-540 and LIB-375 operations. Villagers forced to build a new camp, Klaw Klay Der, between Play Hsar Loe and Saw Tay Der & Ler Wah Soe between Si Der Koh and Ka Mu Lo & Klar Ho Day between Hu Mu Der and Khoh Lu & another one [not named] between Ler Klah Der and Toe Hta, as well as porter supplies, act as guides, etc. The time and energy spent performing forced labor prevented them from working for their families.
During the hot season MOC-9 and IB-539 carried out search-and-destroy missions.
1/3/07 IB-539 Columns 1 and 2, based in Htee Nya Pah Lo (Klaw Me Der) and TOC No. 2 LIB- 375, led by MOC-9 BC Moe Aung and 2nd BC Toe Toe Lay and Capt. Soe Myit Naing set forest fires along the road, which destroyed nearby fields and orchards.
Resources Destroyed
Area Betel Nut Gardens Cardamom Gardens Houses Lay Gaw Loh 7 8 0 Yur Lah 5 7 0 Tar Pa Kee 4 6 4 Plaw Baw Der 6 6 0 22 27 4
16/4/07 MOC-9 LIB-375, based in Play Hsa Lo camp, led by BC Toe Aung Za and Capt. Soe Myit Naing, forced 100 people from Play Hsa Lo Village to porter food from Tha Kaw to Play Hsar Loe military camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 179
17/4/07 MOC-9 TOC No. 2, led by TOC Commander Tin Soe, forces 20 villagers and then 35 the next day to porter supplies from Tha Kaw to Play Hsar Loe camp.
22/4/07 MOC-9 TOC No. 2, led by Tin Soe, forced 22 people in the relocation site to porter food from Tha Kaw to Play Hsar Loe.
23/4/07 MOC-9 TOC No. 2, led by Tin Soe, forced 150 people in the relocation site to porter food from Tha Kaw to Play Hsar Loe.
5/5/07 LIB-375 forces 20 villagers to porter food from Paw Pa to Play Hsar Loe.
7/5/07 LIB-375 forces villagers to cut 550 bamboo poles to make roofs for the military camp.
17/5/07 Play Hsar Low military camps forces 20 villagers to carry injured soldiers to Tha Pye Nyunt Village.
18/5/07 50 villagers forced to porter supply from Play Hsar Loe to the new Klaw Klay Day military camp.
26-29/5/07 6 men and 11 women forced to porter supplies to Ka Mu Khi.
28/5/07 TOC No. 2 forces 50 Play Hsar Loe villagers to porter supplies from Play Hsar Loe to Klaw Klay Day camp.
30/5/07 25 Play Hsar Lo villagers to porter supplies from there to The Pye Nyunt military camp.
31/5/07 20 villagers forced to porter supplies (same route).
3/6/07 10 villagers to transport injured soldiers from Play Hsar Loe to Tha Pye Nyunt camp.
4/6/07 10 villages forced to porter supplies from Play Hsar Loe to Klaw Klay Day camp.
11/6/07 40 villagers forced to porter supplies from Play Hsar Loe to Klaw Klay Day camp.
13/06/07 10 villagers forced to serve as sentries at that Klaw Klay Day camp.
14/6/07 5 villagers forced to accompany troops to the front line [as human shields?].
15/6/07 TOC No. 2 forces 30 villagers in Play Hsar Loe to porter food to the front line.
Combat Summary:
MOC-9, TOC No. 2, LIB-540 and LIB-375 conducted operations throughout the Play Hsar Loe and Maw Nay Pwa areas for all of May. Fighting ensued:
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 180
14/5/07 fighting east of the Play Hsar Loe Village around Day Bu Day involving LIB-540 and KNLA.
19/5/07 fighting west of Play Hsar Loe Village between LIB-377 and KNLA.
25/5/07 fighting west of Play Hsar Loe and Lay Yo Lo Villages.
30/5/07 fighting west of Play Hsar Loe between LIB-540 and KNLA.
1/6/07 fighting east of Play Hsar Loe in Say Wah Lu area.
3/6/07 fighting east of Play Hsar Loe in Klaw Klay Day area (3 X same day)
8/6/07 fighting east of Play Hsar Loe between MOC-9, TOC No. 2, LIB-375 and KNLA.
11/7/07 fighting east of Play Hsar Loe in Klaw Klay Day area.
16/7/07 fighting east of Play Hsar Loe in Hter La Day area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 181
ERA Distribution Summary 15 February 2008
Demographics:
Provided ERA to 185 not 182 households as originally planned (1,044 people). 16% of the beneficiaries < 5 years of age.
Logistics: 12 November 2007 – 21 January 2008 (69 days).
25 days of travel, 25 days of waiting (for information, security personnel, transport), 3 days aid distribution, 2 days of meetings with village heads, 3 days HR documentation, and 1 day celebrating Christmas with IDPs.
Road crossings (Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Ta and Pya Gaw – Bu Hsa Khi) difficult.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Households >5 M >5 F <5 M <5 F Total 1 Ta Per Khi 20 42 38 6 5 91 2 Plaw Baw Der 32 76 91 10 8 185 3 Yer Loe 42 97 112 20 17 246 4 Play Hsar Loe 65 159 167 34 34 394 5 Lay Hgo Loe 14 26 26 16 7 75 6 Pau Pa 12 25 16 5 7 53 185 425 450 91 78 1,044
Situation Update
MOC-21 established a new military camp at Zsi Daw Kho and constructed a new road between Tha Pye Nyunt and Zsi Daw Kho – Bu Hsa Khi. Road construction displaced 400 people from Thandaung Township.
11/2007 3 Columns from MOC-4 entered Htaw Hta Htoo Township, Taungoo District, causing approximately 500 people to flee. Travel restrictions, forced labor, and threats followed.
Rice rises to 15,000 kyat/tin in Play Hsar Loe. Meat curry very rare. Most people eat cucumber, young banana stems, and a bitter vegetable (thay kar lar). Salt and chili are in short supply.
IB-73 and IB-75 patrol the plains.
MOC-4, MOC-5, MOC-10 and LIB-88 patrol Bawgali (Kler Kar) – Bu Hsa Khi Car Road
MOC-9 and MOC-21 patrol the Tha Pye Nyunt – Play Sar Loe Car Road in Htaw Hta Htu.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 182
IDPs in bamboo huts with banana leaf roofs. Most lack mosquito nets, blankets, and warm clothes. IDPs use multiple hiding places (move back and forth between them) as they receive information from the KNLA regarding SPDC troops movements (by walkie-talkie or runner). Some IDPs organize their own lookout patrols.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 183
Report Number KORD-2008-09
Date Submitted: 8 April 2008
Location: East of Baw Gi Lgyi – Saw Mu Plaw, and Baw Gi Lgyi – Maw Chi Rd. Junction
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Karen Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Hta Ta Htu May Nay Pwa Kho Khee Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 18 330 1,877
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-4, MOC-5, MOC-9, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-371, LIB-376, LIB-378, LIB-379, LIB-539, LIB- 703, LIB-707, LIB-710 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 184
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 185
KORD-2008-09 ERA Request Summary 8 April 2008
Demographics:
1,877 people (330 households) from 18 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Maw Nay Pwa, Kho Khee, and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts, Htaw Hta Tu Township, Taw Oo District. Includes 283 children (144 girls and 139 boys) under 5 years old, 810 females and 784 males over five years of age.
Hiding area east of the Bawgligyi – Saw Mu Plaw and Bawgligyi – Maw Chi Road junction.
Hillside paddy and cardamom, dog fruit, and durian gardens provide main food sources.
Rationale:
7/07 SPDC patrols and the construction of new outposts led villagers to abandon 50 hillside paddy fields.
1/11-10/12/07 MOC-4 (LIB-710, LIB-707, and LIB-703) and MOC-21 (LIB-376, LIB-378, and LIB-379) conducted patrols throughout the area.
Early November MOC-4 left Taungoo Town. On 14 November the troops divided into 2 columns and spread throughout the area. The troops established to new outposts and destroyed 40 houses, 2,156 baskets of paddy, 860 viss of cardamom, 120 viss of betel nut, and 2 farm huts.
November MOC-21 patrols at harvest time led villagers to abandon 48 paddy fields, which troops later destroyed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 186
ERA Request 7 March 2008
Location:
Kho Khee, Maw Nay Pwa, and Kaw Thay Der areas in Htaw Ta Htu Township, Taw Oo (Taungoo) District.
Dates
1 November – 10 December 2007
Military Units Identified:
OCH-4 LIBs 710, 707, and 703
OCH-21 LIBs 376, 379, and 378
Background:
Mountainous hiding areas targeted during the 2006-2007 offensives. IDPs scattered with some heading to the Thai-Burma border and others into remote hiding areas.
SPDC “Search-and-Destroy” patrols have created chronic human and food insecurity. No schools or health care services are available due to the patrols.
During 2006, LID-66 and LID-88 under OCH-9 conducted operations. In November, troops from MOC-4 and MOC-21 (above) “came in to reinforce” them.
Recent Military Operations
7/07 Onwards LIB-539 (MOC-9) has conducted patrols in the following areas: Phoe Mu Der, Sa Wa Daw Kho, Wa Mi Per Kho, and established a new outpost in Klaw Klay Day between Wa Mi Per Kho and Saw Mu Der Villages. 15 hillside paddy farms near the outpost were abandoned as a result. LIB-371 (MOC-5) also conducted patrols in the following areas: Ha Htoe Per, Thay Khu Der, and Sho Ser. LIB-371 moved to Hsaw Wa Der and built a new outpost in Too Tu Soe. 35 hillside paddy farms near the outpost were abandoned as a result.
Beginning of November LIB-376, LIB-379, and LIB-378 (MOC-21) departed Tha Pyin Nyunt for Phlay Hsa Lo and conducted patrols in Wa Mi Per Kho and Sa Wa Daw Kho areas. 8 November these troops arrived in the Saw Mu Der and Pway Baw Der areas.
15/11/07 These troops moved on to Si Daw Kho and conducted patrols to clear the area. Patrols destroyed 48 paddy fields ready for harvest.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 187
Early November LIB-710, LIB-707, and LIB-703 (MOC-4) left Taungoo and traveled along the Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee Car Road.
10/11/07 These troops arrived in Kaw Thay Der.
14/11/07 These troops arrived in Plo Mu Der and Bu Hsa Khee and then divided into 2 columns.
29/11/07 Column 1 entered Tha Aye Khee, Bu Hsa Khee, and Ha Htoe Per areas and cleared them. Column 2 burned 29 houses and 19 paddy huts belonging to villagers from Tha Aye Khee and Ha Htoe Per.
3/12/07 Column 1 entered Bu Hsa Khee and Bu Khee villages and burnt 3 paddy huts.
5/12/07 Column 1 burnt 11 houses belonging to the above villagers.
All told the 3 battalions destroyed 2,156 baskets of paddy, 860 viss of cardamom seeds, and 120 viss of betel nut along with other items over 6 weeks. They also built 2 new outposts in Wah Kho Soe (Tha Aye Khee area) and Yaw Hsa Soe (between Ha Htoe Per and Hsaw Der Villages).
10/12/07 the troops withdrew and the situation quieted.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 188
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Total 1 Maw Nay Pwa Si Daw Kho 40 141 120 19 22 302 2 Maw Nay Pwa Pho Mu Der 6 14 13 2 1 30 3 Maw Nay Pwa Saw Mu Der 9 19 18 3 3 43 4 Maw Nay Pwa Pway Baw Der 4 17 5 0 0 22 5 Maw Nay Pwa Sa Wa Daw Kho 6 23 5 4 0 32 6 Maw Nay Pwa Wa Mi Per Kho 18 50 38 5 0 93 7 Kho Khee Hi Daw Khaw 26 47 63 14 12 136 8 Kho Khee Sho Ser 21 36 43 4 6 89 9 Kho Khee Klay Khee 14 38 48 5 7 98 10 Kho Khee Wah Soe 31 60 76 17 12 165 11 Kho Khee Bu Khee 4 14 12 2 4 32 12 Kho Khee Thay Khu Der 9 13 20 12 7 52 13 Kho Khee Tha Aye Khee 21 44 62 12 15 133 14 Kho Khee Ha Htoe Per 28 68 63 12 16 159 15 Kho Khee Kho Khee 27 52 49 9 7 117 16 Kaw Thay Der Tha Kwee Soe 10 15 30 3 10 58 17 Kaw Thay Der Bu Hsa Khee 17 44 42 9 8 103 18 Kaw Thay Der Hsaw Wa Der 39 89 103 7 14 213 330 784 810 139 144 1,877
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 189
Report Number KORD-2008-13
Date Submitted: 15 July 2008
Location: Eastern Day Loe area
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho Da Lo Mu Htaw
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 15 353 2,046
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-5, MOC-10 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-365, LIB-371, LIB-372, LIB- 373 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-361, LIB-364, LIB-369 Infantry Battalions IB-35, IB-39, IB-75, IB-124 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 190
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 191
KORD-2008-13 ERA Request Summary 15 July 2008
Demographics:
2,046 people (353 households) from 15 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Eastern Day Loe area, Daw Pha Kho Township, Taw Oo District. 249 children under 5, 895 males over 5 and 902 females over 5.
Remote highland area; hiding area. Located north of Thandaung Town, east of Day Lu Mu Htaw River and west of the Karenni State border.
Previous Rationale:
LIB-371, LIB-372, and LIB-373 (under MOC-5) and LIB-363, LIB-364, and LIB-365 (under MOC-10) conducted patrols from 1 December 2007 until 15 January of 2008, during which the troops established 5 new outposts close to the villagers’ paddy fields and gardens.
Military transport, patrols, and travel restrictions prompted flight.
During this 6-week period: more than 6,000 viss of betel nut and 1,000 baskets of paddy abandoned or lost; 500 baskets of paddy and 1,000 cardamom seeds destroyed.
Updated Rationale:
LIB-363, LIB-364, and LIB-365 conducted search-and-destroy missions between 16 April and 22 May. Troops burnt 12 houses, 3 huts, and 219 cardamom gardens, as well as stole: 412 baskets of paddy and 75 baskets of pounded rice. Villagers also lost 6,000 viss of betel nut and 500 baskets of paddy because they were too afraid to return to tend their fields.
Two months after troop withdrawal, 2 villagers maimed by land mines.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 192
ERA Request 15 July 2008
Location:
Eastern Thauk Ye Kha Chaung (Day Lo Mu Htaw) area in Thandaung (Daw Pha Kho) Township of Taungoo (Taw Oo) District. The affected villagers are on the eastern side of the river, known as Day Lo Mu Htaw area in Karen (north of Thandaung Township and close to the Karenni State border to the east).
Remote highland area. Villagers rely on paddy cultivation and other crops: durian, mangosteen, betel leaves and nuts, cardamom. Following the offensive, most of the fields and gardens abandoned or destroyed.
Situation Analysis:
Background history: Area under KNU control until recently 1997. People would flee whenever SPDC patrols passed through the area. “They know if they keep facing with SPDC troops, they will be for[ced] to move to Thandaung town, or they will be killed or tortured.”
2005 offensive sought to clear the area of KNU and many people fled to the Thai-Burma border.
March 2007 offensive “mainly targeted civilians as the main enemies of them, looked for villagers to kill them and destroyed their places by burning them with fire. Since then villagers were moving their places and hiding in jungle.”
Recent Causes of Vulnerability:
Early December LIB-371, LIB-372, and LIB-373 (MOC-5) began patrols.
10 December 2007 LIB-363, LIB-364, and LIB-365, under Tactical Command 3 (MOC-10) arrived and began patrols. All 6 battalions (MOC-5 and MOC-10) conducted operations in Eatern Day Lo area and established 5 new outposts: 1) Lhe Der Kher Der Kho; 2) Pha Der Kah; 3) Pha Weh; 4) Thay Ya Yu; and 5) Haw Theh Soe. The patrols transported supplies to frontline camps.
Mid-January 2008 LIB-371, LIB-372, and LIB-373 moved to the Western Day Loe area; LIB- 363, LIB-364, and LIB-365 remained.
16 April LIB-363, led by BC Kyi Soe, departed Thay Ya Yu outpost to patrol the Thay Ya Yu village area.
17 April Troops burnt 17 cardamom gardens in the village and seized 18 baskets of pounded rice as well as 21 baskets of paddy.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 193
22 April LIB-363 entered the Thaw Khaw Saw Village area. During patrols they burnt 13 cardamom gardens in the village and seized 13 baskets of pounded rice as well as 45 baskets of paddy.
25 April LIB-363 entered Ka Ta Khee Village and burnt 11 cardamom gardens.
27 April LIB-363 entered Saw Law Kho Village and burnt 16 cardamom gardens and seized 10 baskets of pounded rice as well as 34 baskets of paddy.
1 May LIB-363 entered Ma Wa Khaw Village and burnt 6 houses and 9 cardamom gardens and seized 5 baskets of pounded rice.
4 May LIB-363 entered Way La Khaw Village and burnt 3 huts and 14 cardamom gardens as well as seized 48 baskets of paddy.
18 May LIB-363 departed Way Ka Khaw and returned to Thay Ya Yu outpost, arriving 22 May.
18 April LIB-364 and LIB-365, led by BC Tin Ko Ko and Tint Lwin, respectively, departed Pha Weh military outpost and burnt 26 cardamom gardens belonging to the Pha Weh villagers.
20 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] moved to Kay Law Khee villagers and burnt 20 cardamom gardens and destroyed 74 baskets of paddy.
22 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified entered Leh Kher Der Tha Village, seized 10 baskets of pounded rice and burnt 6 houses. They burnt 9 cardamom gardens and destroyed 8 baskets of paddy while patrolling the nearby village.
25 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Ka Ta Khee Village during patrols and burnt 11 cardamom gardens.
25 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Ka Mu Do. During patrols they burned 11 cardamom gardens.
27 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered in Saw Law Kho and, during patrols, burnt 16 cardamom gardens and seized 10 baskets of pounded rice and 34 baskets of paddy.
27 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Di Dah Kho, burnt 6 cardamom gardens, and destroyed 68 baskets of paddy.
28 April Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Ma Pweh Kho. During patrols they [burnt] 28 cardamom gardens.
1 May Troops [which battalion(s) not specified battalion not specified] entered Ma Wa Khaw and burnt 6 houses. During patrols they burnt 9 cardamom gardens and seized 5 baskets of rice.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 194
2 May Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Khaw Mee Kho. During patrols they burned 14 cardamom gardens and seized 8 pounds of pounded rice.
4 May Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Way La Khaw. During patrols they burned 3 huts, 14 cardamom gardens, and seized 48 baskets of paddy.
6 May Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] entered Pha Der Kah and conducted patrols for 10 days. During patrols, they burnt 7 cardamom gardens of Pha Der Kha villagers.
16 May [which battalion(s) not specified] departed Pha Der Kah and returned to Pha Weh military outpost on 21 May.
18 May Troops [which battalion(s) not specified] departed Wa La Khaw and returned to Thay Ya Yu base on 22 May.
Total documented losses during this period: 12 houses, 3 huts, and 219 cardamom gardens burnt; 412 baskets of paddy and 75 baskets of pounded rice lost or destroyed; 6,000 viss of betel nut not harvested [fell to ground and destroyed] and 500 baskets of paddy left uncollected.
Troops laid landmines during patrols. 2 people injured: Naw [Name Redacted] (age 26) of Ma Pweh Kho Village while walking in the Sho Kho area en route to purchase rice in Kler La, and Saw [Name Redacted] from Thay Ya Yu Village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 195
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Housheholds F>5 M>5 F<5 M<5 Total 1 Da Lo Mu Htaw Kay Law Khee 26 60 66 12 5 143 2 Da Lo Mu Htaw Pha Weh 34 92 101 5 12 210 3 Da Lo Mu Htaw Ma Wa Khaw 17 35 35 3 6 79 4 Da Lo Mu Htaw Ka Mu Do 16 46 39 11 14 110 5 Da Lo Mu Htaw Di Dah Kho 17 52 46 1 13 112 6 Da Lo Mu Htaw Ma Pweh Kho 33 75 91 12 10 188 7 Da Lo Mu Htaw Khaw Mee Kho 20 43 64 11 8 126 8 Da Lo Mu Htaw Pha Der Kah 15 63 47 3 0 113 9 Da Lo Mu Htaw Way La Khaw 27 47 46 7 6 106 10 Da Lo Mu Htaw Saw Law Kho 22 66 50 14 16 146 11 Da Lo Mu Htaw Leh Kho Der Kah 17 32 34 4 6 76 12 Da Lo Mu Htaw Thaw Khaw Saw 19 41 36 6 10 93 13 Da Lo Mu Htaw Ka Ta Khee 28 74 75 10 7 166 14 Da Lo Mu Htaw Thay Ya Yu 34 107 92 14 6 219 15 Da Lo Mu Htaw Leh Kher Der Tha 28 69 73 8 9 159 353 902 895 121 128 2,046
During needs assessment IDPs in hiding areas, typically 2-3 “houses” in a group and 3-4 in other [i.e. distributed widely]. Hiding places currently 1-5 hours walk from current SPDC outposts.
No business or trade in the area. Dependent on betel nuts and leaves as well as mangosteen to exchange for food in Thandaung Town. “Most of them now are living on day to day survival, there a Thay Ya Yu villager said, ‘Eat in the morning and worry for the evening, eat in the evening and worry for the morning.’”
ERA will enable them buy rice in town or in Ta Ro to the north.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 196
ERA Distribution Summary 26 November
Demographics:
ERA provided to 2,046 people (353 HH) from 15 villages in Thandaung Township as requested. Beneficiaries were approximately 50% male/female and approximately 12% under age 5.
Situation Update:
SPDC largely inactive between the time of ERA request and ERA distribution. However, two new camps constructed at Pha Der Kha and Haw Thaw Plo in the Eastern Day Loe. Villagers report that the troops collected cardamom seed so that they could not. Troops also reduced the ability of people living on either side of the Day Loe from communicating with one another.
Road construction between Day Loe and Thandaung. Villagers have to travel via Pya Sa Kah, increasing the travel time.
Some IDPs [existing and/or new?] relocated to Thandaung, 13-Mile area, Pya Sa Kah, and Leik Tho, but not the entire family. Also, many people have returned on a temporary basis to harvest cardamom.
3 villagers injured by landmines: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (62), 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (25), and 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (35).
The K’weh Village head arrested and held for 3 days.
Livelihood Issues [tolls/illegal taxes]:
15 “toll” gates along the Toungoo – Ya Doh Road: 1) Toungoo Bridge; 2) Four-Mile; 3) Seven- Mile; 4) Ngwe Taw K’lay; 5) Kyauk Loe Kyi; 6) Toe Bo Kyi; 7) Tha Moe Taw camp; 8) S’leh camp; 9) Ah Leh Chah camp; 10) Lay Tho camp; 11) Ma Sa Kayan Pyi Thi camp; 12) Bo Ho camp; 13) Thaw Yin Ka camp; 14) La Ya Doh camp; and 15) Ya Doh.
15 “toll” gates along the Toungoo – Kaw Thay Der Road: 1) Toungoo Bridge; 2) Four-Mile; 3) Seven-Mile; 4) Pya camp; 5) Than Daung Way Thaw; 6) Thirteen-Mile; 7) Hsaw Naw Kwa; 8) Twelve-Mile; 9) Kyauk Koh; 10) Pa Leh Wa; 11) Che Na Tie Kwa; 12) Pyaw Tho; 13) Baw Ka Lee; 14) Yin Thoo K’lay; and 15) Yo Tho Kyi.
7 “toll” gates along the Toungoo – Daw Pa Kho Road: 1) Toungoo Bridge; 2) Four-Mile; 3) Seven-Mile; 4) Pya Sa Kha camp; 5) Shway Nyaw Pay camp; 6) Taw Pya Kyi road [section]; 7) Tha Daw Kyi.
Decline in value of the kyat and travel restrictions [from time of ERA request to present ongoing] have increased the costs for traders.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 197
People living in SPDC-controlled areas dependent on day labor due prior military operations during which troops destroyed fields and gardens. Most people have to borrow food, taking on debt. “We borrow food from the traders, after we get the [ERA] assistance we have to pay back that and then after the assistance finished we have to borrow it again and some time we couldn’t pay back our debt. Before we borrow the food from the traders we have to give promise with our cardamom seeds.
Market Impact:
Villagers in Eastern Day Loe can travel to Thandaung, but most have a ticket with photo [copy?] from SPDC beforehand. The former costs 500 kyat, and the latter 1,000 kyat, before traveling to Thandaung Town.
Villagers can buy rice from Pya Sa Ka and Mo Khee as well and can avoid the gate fees by taking secret routes. “Those people if they were found by the SPDC, they have to tell them that they are from Western Day Loe. Because the villagers from Eastern Day Loe area, the SPDC regard that they are communicating with the KNU, and if they saw the villagers from Eastern Day Loe they will kill them all directly without question.”
Current SPDC Positions in the Area:
Frontline IB-75 Based in Htee Thaw Saw, Thi Thaw Kho, Ka Ma Tu Peo Li, and Htaw Thay Plo
Frontline IB-124 Base in: Thauk Ye Kha, Shan Lay Sein, Seik Maw Taw, Shein Lay Pyi, Sa Kweh Ya Na, Ma Ho, Klay Hta, and Dah Oo
Frontline IB-39 Based in: Sa Leh, Di Dah Kho, A Leh Chaung, Hto Bo Kyee, Kyauk Lon Kyee, Di Sa Na, Tha Moe Taw, Da Wa Lay Khee, and Mae Lo
Frontline IB-351 Based in Sa Leh (zone 39), and Shan Lae Pyi (zone 124)
Frontline LIB-364 Based in Kyo Ta Dah, Ler Kher Der Kho, Thay Ya Yu, and Pha Weh Der Kah
Frontline LIB-369 Based in Leik Pya Lay, Htee Mu Khee, and Maw Kweh Kyee
Frontline LIB-361 Based in Thay Ya Yu, Kho The, Na Sein Chin, and Maw Nweh Kyee.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 198
Patrols:
These troops are operating in Thandaung and Tantabin Townships of Toungoo District according to the KNU administrative demarcation line. The troops are frequently rotated. The current strategy is to build a new car road such as Kler La – Bu Hsa Khee, destroy the villages living under KNU control, and establish permanent control.
KNU troops reported destroyed the Pa Lae Wa Bridge. Afterwards, SPDC troops extorted funds (40,000,000 kyat total) from 9 villagers in the Kler La area. People with motorcycles had to pay 10,000 and car owners even more [amount not specified]. Troops also extorted funds from villages outside this area [amount not specified].
Reportedly, troops will move to Sho Ko and Koe Haw Der areas in Eastern Klay Loe this coming summer.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 199
ERA Impact Assessment 02 March 2009
Market Impacts:
Can purchase rice in Thandaung (Daw Pha Kho) by arranging to meet lowlanders living in SPDC-controlled areas at “jungle markets.” Highland villagers who wish to go pass through either Kha Weh or Htee Pu Khee Villages. Villagers who go this way must have SPDC travel pass and are sometimes forced to give betel nuts, cheroots, or dried fish at checkpoints. They are also required to register their name and state that they are former residents of these villages.
Highland villagers can also access Thauk Ye Kha without having to pass by SPDC camps.
Cash distribution did not affect prices.
Recipients prioritized buying small amounts of rice and other basic needs, as well as repaying debts.
People able to cultivate some upland fields stated the fall 2008 harvest would only cover 3-4 months food supply, leaving a significant shortfall before the next one.
Security Impact:
No negative consequences (theft, taxation, etc. by either KNU or SPDC) reported.
SPDC troops withdrew from Thay Ya Yu and Leh Kho Der region post-ERA distribution. Only one military camp remains in the area and frontline troops, who patrol nearby areas.
Not yet clear whether IDPs will be able to return.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 200
Report Number KORD-2008-21
Date Submitted: 5 November 2008
Location: Between Thandung – Leikhto Rd., near Kayah Border
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Daw Pha Kho Htee Tha Saw
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 299 1,505
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-603 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 201
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 202
KORD-2008-21 ERA Request Summary 5 November 2008
Demographics:
1,505 people (299 households) from 9 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Htee Tha Saw Village Tract, Daw Pha Kho Township, Taw Oo District
Mixed administration in some places and hidings areas in others. Northernmost township - located between Thandaung – Leikhto Road with the Karenni State border to the east. Hill region with most people relying upon upland paddy fields and cardamom (with some coffee and betel nut) plantations for cash income.
Rationale:
2/7/08 LIB-603, led by Kyaw Zay Ta, left Thauk Ye Kha camp at the instruction of Operation Commander Khin Maung Oo of MOC-1 of SCH.
3/7/07 LIB-603 entered Kler Mu Khee Village and extorted 6 tins of rice, 1 pig (40 kg.), and 4 chickens.
4/7/07 LIB-603 entered Ho Thaw Plo Village and extorted 6 tins of rice and 1 pig (48 kg). The troops then ordered the villagers to build a new military outpost on the 30 acres of cardamom gardens they had confiscated from them. The troops also forced residents to porter supplies to Thauk Ye Kha camp on an everyday basis. 5 paddy fields (36 baskets of seed) became overgrown with weeds and were ruined as a result.
The Ho Thaw Plaw village headman: “Starting from the SPDC troops had set up their place in our area, we do not have time to work in our paddy field or garden. We always have to work from them. We had to clean the place for their new outpost. We had to collect the bamboo posts and roofs for them. We had to work on the construction for them and we had to carry the ration for them. More than that they also took our cardamom. There we know that on one side the SPDC had destroyed the food of the villagers, another side people had to work for the SPDC and not able to work for themselves, another side the SPDC taken the products from the gardens that led the villagers to suffer with food shortages.”
Travel restrictions and fees make transportation and communication between lowland and upland areas difficult. [As with other reports, these obstacles prevent them from selling upland cash crops to lowland populations, and this makes it difficult to buy the rice they need to cover food deficits].
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 203
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village HH F>5 M>5 F<5 M<5 Total 1 Htee Tha Saw Hta Reh Plo 45 90 106 15 19 230 2 Htee Tha Saw Khler Mu Khee 27 63 68 10 7 148 3 Htee Tha Saw Ho Thaw Plo 38 94 85 13 7 199 4 Htee Tha Saw Tha Bah Rah 23 45 53 7 15 120 5 Htee Tha Saw Mae Thaw Pho Li 37 81 71 14 10 176 6 Htee Tha Saw Khaw Tha Khaw 23 47 42 7 3 99 7 Htee Tha Saw Thi Thaw Kho 42 84 90 11 9 194 8 Htee Tha Saw Htee Thee Pu Hta 31 75 67 6 5 153 9 Htee Tha Saw Htee Thee Pu La 33 81 81 13 11 186 Total 299 660 663 96 86 1,505
Due to food shortages and loss of cash crops, village residents borrow food from traders and/or friends in Thadaung town and Thauk Ye Kha. Currently, most residents have only 1-2 months supply of food.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 204
ERA Distribution Summary 2 March 2009
Logistics:
8 December 2008 – 15 January 2009 (38 days)
Security risks: Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road and the Kler La – Moe Khee Road. Security not provided between Mae Nu Hta and Ta Dar Der, but was needed because of an SPDC outpost in Thee Mu Hta and frequent patrols.
Communication problems delayed distribution as some villagers arrived a 1-2 days late.
Situation Update:
7 of the 9 villages are now under SPDC control. Htee Thee Pu La and Htee Thee Pu Hta are not. Residents of both fled when SPDC patrols entered the area and the remained in hiding from September – December. They only returned after the ERA distribution.
12/08 SPDC troops based at Ho Thaw Plo and Htee Tha Saw, in Tan Ta Bin Township, withdrew and returned to the “city” [not specified]. According to KNLA sources, troops remain stationed at: 1) T’Ya Lu; 2) Ler Ker Der Kho; 3) Kho Thay Der; 4) Thi Thaw Kho; 5) Htee Pu Khee; 6) Pay Mu Kho/Aung Myint camp; 7) P’na Kho Soe/Soe Ser; 8) Wah Soe; and 9) Doh Doh.
Travel restrictions have eased somewhat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 205
ERA Impact Assessment 17 August 2009
No measurable impact on local market prices or inflation. KNU did not collect tax from ERA recipients.
Villagers (groups 10-15) able to purchase rice in Thandaung and Thauk Ye Kha markets. (No other markets exist in the area.) SPDC patrols these routes, so some villagers purchase the rice at night (2 am) and/or wait for the patrols to pass. Waiting may require up to a week and, in some cases, they are not able to purchase anything at all due to the high frequency of patrols.
No unusual troop movements; however, early warning and communication systems in this area are weak so residents make decisions on the basis of misinformation and/or its absence. People caught fleeing are arrested, forced to porter food and ammunitions, and troops abandon them if fighting ensues.
Short-term benefits, increased food security, and long-term benefits, strengthens villager – market relations, between largely KNU controlled areas in the uplands and SPDC ones in the lowlands.
1/09 Troops, formerly based at Thay Ya Yu and Ler Kha Der, withdrew, which has made it easier for residents to work, travel, and trade.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 206
Report Number CIDKP-2008-11
Date Submitted: 7 May 2008
Location: South of Toungoo – Maw Chi Rd., west of Kler Lah Junction
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 4 398 2,199
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-4, MOC-5, MOC-10 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-366 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 207
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-4, MOC-10 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-4, LIB-5, LIB-10 Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 208
CIDKP-2008-11 ERA Summary Request 7 May 2008
Demographics:
2,199 people (398 households) from 4 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State. KNU: Kaw Thay Der Village Tract, Htaw Hta Htoo Township, Taw Oo District. 302 children (162 girls and 140 boys) under 5 and 916 females and 981 males over five.
Located just south of the Taungoo – Maw Chi Road, and just west of the Kler Lah Junction. Mixed administration area with relocation sites and hiding areas.
Context:
1975 Four Cuts campaign caused villagers to flee. Troops later withdrew enabling villagers to return.
1997 “Scorched Earth” campaign followed by further offensives every 2-3 years. Many paddy fields orchards were completely destroyed. This led villagers to shift towards the collection of forest products such as dog fruit and cardamom.
February 2006 offensive led to militarization, the construction of the car road, the proliferation of military camps along it and in the surrounding hills. This time, villages were not relocated. Instead, the troops used villagers for labor. They were also forced to build 2 fences surrounding their villages (only 2 gates in and out to restrict communication).
Taungoo – Maw Chi and Taungoo – Bu Hsa Khi Roads strategic (transport and control). Troops used lots of prison porters in addition to villagers to support their military operations.
Military Operations:
Camps established in Kler Lar, Kaw Thay Der, Kaw Soe Kho, War Tho Kho, Klay Soe Khi, Maw Pah Der, Naw Soe, Si Keh Der, and Bu Hsa Khi.
Before November 2007 MOC/OCH-5 positioned troops between Maw Pah Der and Naw Soe. LID-88 positioned troops between Ker Der and Bu Hsa Khi.
Beginning in November 2007 troops from MOC-4 and MOC-10 arrived to overseas the reconstruction of the dry season road and to transport supplies. Once finished, MOC-5 and LID- 88 returned [rotated out]. Villagers forced to provide labor, serve as messengers (4 people/village), and to let their trucks and motorcycles be used to transport supplies.
During August and September 2007 [while the Saffron Revolution was occurring] troops imposed travel restrictions on cars and motorcycles along the Toungoo – Kler Lar – Kaw Thay
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 209
Der Road. The period coincided with the harvest of durian and dog fruit causing significant financial losses [see below].
Between November 2007 and January 2008 villagers informed that anyone traveling outside their villages [without permission?] would be “shot to death.” [MOC-5 Commander, Kaung Myat]. Landmines also placed along known travel routes. Villagers had to sneak back and forth between their homes and plantations at night at great risk. The period also coincided with the November – December harvest of betel nut and cardamom, which led to further losses of income.
Troops [not specified] regularly fired mortars into plantations and suspected IDP hiding areas during period covered.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 210
Lost Income
Village Households Period Crop Est. Losses Losses Averaged (Kyat) (Kyat/HH) War Tho 48 Aug- Durian 1,440,000 500/day Kho Sept War Tho 48 Aug- Dog Fruit 1,400,00 As above Kho Sept War Tho 48 Nov- Betel Nut 7,200,000 2,500/day Kho Dec War Tho 48 Nov- Cardamom 3,840,000 10 viss total at Kho Dec 8,000/viss Kaw Soe 127 Aug- Durian 3,810,000 500 day Kho Sept Kaw Soe 127 Aug- Dog Fruit 3,810,000 500/day Kho Sept Kaw Soe 127 Nov- Betel Nut 19,050,000 2,500/day Kho Dec Kaw Soe 127 Nov- Cardamom 10,160,000 10 viss at 8,000/viss Kho Dec Kaw Thay 148 Aug- Durian 5,520,000 500/day Der Sept Kaw Thay 148 Aug- Dog Fruit 5,520,000 500/day Der Sept Kaw Thay 148 Nov- Betel Nut 27,600,000 2,500/day Der Dec Kaw Thay 148 Nov- Cardamom 14,720,000 10 viss at 8,000/viss Der Dec Ler Kho 39 Aug- Durian 1,170,000 500/day Sept Ler Kho 39 Aug- Dog Fruit 1,170,000 500/day Sept Ler Kho 39 Nov- Betel Nut 5,850,000 2,500/day Dec Ler Kho 39 Nov- Cardamom 3,120,000 10 viss at 8,000/viss Dec 115,420,000
8/11 – 11/12/07 MOC/OCH-5 Commander, Kaung Myat, ordered 40 people from Kaw Soe Kho, 10 from War Tho Kho and Ler Kho each, 150 from Kler Lar, 120 from Kaw Thay Der to porter food from Kler Lar to Kaw Thay Der and Naw Soe camps.
12/11/07 Kaung Myat ordered 1 person/household from 12 villages in the Kaw Thay Der and Kler Lar area to clean the card road and to provide “security” for the bulldozer between Kler Lar – Maw Pah Der – Kaw Thay Der – Naw Soe for 3 days.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 211
15/11/07 Kaung Myat informs villagers that anyone travelling outside their village, “if found will be shot to death.” The travel restriction started on 20 November and continued through December preventing them from harvesting betel nut and cardamom.
10/12/07 MOC-10 Commander Ko Ko Lat commandeers 5 trucks from Kaw Thay Der and Kler Lar to transport food supplies from Kler Lar to Klay Loe.
12/12/07 Ko Ko Lat commanders 8 trucks [bullock carts?] from Kaw Thay Der. Each truck made 14 trips from Kler Lar to Bu Hsa Khi. Truck owners: Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], [Name Redacted], [Name Redacted], Naw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], and [Name Redacted].
24/12/07 Ko Ko Lat commandeers 4 trucks from Kaw Thay Der to transport 10,000 bricks, 30 bags of cement, and lime to build a pagoda and military camp at Kler Lar.
24/12/07 Ko Ko Lat orders 1 person/household from 12 villages in the Kaw Thay Der and Kler Lar area to bring their own food and work in Sheh Loe camp for 4 days.
26/12/07 Ko Ko Lat orders people from 12 villages from Kler Lar and Kaw Thay Der to build a bridge on Sho Lo Klo within a 3-day period: Kler Lar (40), Pae Kaw Der (13), Maw Kho Der (13), Maw Pah Der (13), Ku Plaw Der (13), Ga Mu Der (8), Der Doh (7), Ler Kho (7), Kaw Thay Der (25), Klay Soe Khi (10), War Tho Kho (10), Kaw Soe Kho (15).
27-29/12/07 Ko Ko Lat commandeers 7 trucks [bullock carts? from Kler Lar and Kaw Thay Der to transport food supplies from Kler Lar to Naw Soe. Owners: Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], [Name Redacted], Naw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], and [Name Redacted]. [Name Redacted] truck contained meat, vegetables, and other supplies at the time. Troops seized all of it (worth about 75,000 kyat).
24/2/08 LIB-366 from Kler Lar cut and took 200 large pieces of bamboo from Kler Lar Village without their consent (valued at 400,000 kyat).
25/2/08 Police from Kler Lar (Bawgaligyi) require villagers from Ler Kho and Kler Lar to cut and send 200 large pieces of bamboo to Kler Lar (valued at 400,000 kyat).
9-11/3/08 MOC-10 Commander Ko Ko Lat require villagers from Kaw Soe Kho, Ler Ko, and Kaw Thay Der to cut and to transport 1,000 large pieces of bamboo (valued at 200,000 kyat).
11/3/08 MOC-10 troops based in Klay Soe Khi require 1 person/household from Klay Soe Khi, Kaw Thay Der, War Tho Kho to clean the car road between Kler Lar and Naw Soe (to a width of 35 feet) for 5 days.
12/3/08 MOC-10 troops require motorcycle owners to transport sand, gravel, and bricks from Kler Lar to Naw Soe for the pagoda construction. Each driver had to make 10 trips.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 212
15/3/08 MOC-10 troops require people from the following villages to porter supplies from Kler Lar to the War Tho Kho military camp: Kaw Soe Kho (35), War Tho Kho (20), Ler Kho (10).
15/3/08 MOC-10 troops based in Kler Lar required 500 people in the Kler Lar area to porter supplies from Kler Lar to Maw Daw Kho and Naw Soe camps. It required 2 days.
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Totals 1 Kaw Thay Der Wai Tho Kho 48 147 133 20 27 327 2 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Soe Koh 127 290 263 37 46 636 3 Kaw Thay Der Kaw Thay Der 39 76 60 11 15 1,074 4 Kaw Thay Der Ler Ko 39 76 60 11 15 162 398 981 916 140 162 2,199
People can buy lowland rice grown near Kler Lar and Kaw Thay Der (15,000 kyat/tin); however, travel restrictions have made this very difficult.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 213
ERA 2008-11 (Revised) Distribution Summary 16 September 2008
Demographics:
Cash assistance to 2,199 people (401 households rather than 398 originally requested) from 4 villages in Thandaung Township. 49% females and 51% males; 14% of the total < 5 years of age.
Logistics:
17 July – 30 August (44 days)
Northern CIDKP transmitted aid to Taw Oo CIDKP, who sent ERA from Mae Nu Hta to Taw Oo District. Village heads contacted using radios to arrange distribution. Village heads communicated details to IDPs in hiding sites. They had to cross two car roads en route (Ler Doh – Hsa Hta and Ler Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khi) but did not have any problems.
Livelihoods
Mixed administration area with relocation sites and hiding areas. Basic commodities may be bought and sold at Taw Oo Town.
Ongoing HR abuses
3rd week of July MOC-21, based in the Maw Nay Bwa area, and MOC-10, based in Kaw Thay Der, changed positions. Travel restrictions imposed as troops used the road to resupply and to transport wounded soldiers. Patrols conducted everyday.
MOC-10, prior to entering the Kaw Thay Der area conducted patrols in the jungle (rather than using the road) looking for IDPs. Those near Yer Loe, Hgaw Htu Htoe, Maw Daw Kho crossed the Yaw Loe Klo River and hid for 7-10 days until troops switched with MOC-21.
7/8/08 MOC-20 troops entered Ler Kho Village claiming they were looking for strangers. Looted 2 rings from Saw [Name Redacted] (25 years of age), 30,000 kyat from Saw [Name Redacted] (50), and 10,000 kyat and 1 necklace from Saw [Name Redacted] (33).
9/8/08 MOC-10 troops, led by Commander Tin win, accused Saw [Name Redacted], while he was cutting bamboo of having contact with KNU. He was held and tortured then released on the 13th. Troops warned him not to discuss what had happened otherwise they would capture and punish him again.
Villagers living in relocation sites permitted to go to work sites in the morning but must return by 5:30 pm. This is particularly difficult for people whose fields and orchards are located far away. They are forbidden from sleeping at their farms, orchards, or in the forest. Everyone has to
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 214
carry travel passes. If found without one, “they will be shot dead.” Villagers are also forbidden from carrying lots of food, including rice, beyond what they need for the day.
Troops burnt an unspecified number of orchards during this period. Due to the intense heat, many of the plants were destroyed, while others were so damaged that they did not bloom or fruit at all.
No date MOC-10 Commander Ko Ko Lat and Kler La Township Officer, Than Win, order villagers to rebuild Kyauk Khone Bridge over the Aung Law River. Villagers forced to provide 3,940,000 kyat for the construction costs. Money collected from: car owners [bullock cart owners?] (200,000), motorbikes (2,000), big shop owners (60,000), and small shop owners (30,000). Total costs by village: Kler La (200,000), Ku Pler Der (50,000), Ler Kho (30,000), Wa Tho Ko (30,000), Kaw Soe Kho (100,000), Kaw Lay Der (100,000), Klay Soe Khi (70,000), Maw Kho Der (70,000), Der Doh (70,000), Gar Mu Der (20,000), Pae Kaw Der (100,000), and Moe Pi Der (50,000). Villagers in Kaw Soe Kho, Ler Kho, and Kler Ler had to (re) build from 20 Mile Road to Kler Lar using 30 people 2 times/week. A car from Kler Lar commandeered to carry rocks twice per week.
IDPs in hiding sites near Maw Nay Bwa and Kaw Thay Der Villages are secretly able to sell their cash crops to people in Kler Lar and Kaw Thay Der Villages for rice. Due to patrols near the road, they have to do this at night at great risk due to travel restrictions. People also able to buy rice (15,000 kyat/tin) and other goods in Taw Oo Town, Kler Lar, and Kaw Thay Der. The amounts are limited to family consumption not commercial sale, however.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 215
ERA Impact Assessment 23 January 2009
Market Impacts
SPDC checkpoints increased taxes on traveling rice traders and closed nearby markets, which made it very difficult for ERA recipients to buy rice. Between Taungoo and Bawgalyigyi trucks [bullock carts?] must pass through 13 checkpoints. Typical cost 118,000 kyat (70,000 kyat returning) per truck. Food, alcohol, and other goods frequently demanded as well.
In Toungoo town, rice is 3-4,000 kyat/tin but up to 15,000 in Kaw Thay Der area. Recipients could not buy a 3-month supply, but had to purchase rice bit-by-bit due to travel restrictions and security risks.
Security
MOC-10 and MOC-4 are very active and villagers report frequently hearing mortars and gunfire in the jungle. CIDKP, however, state this is normal.
11/08 three battalions arrived: LIB-10 and LIB-4 provided road security while LIB-5 transported supplies. Villagers from Kler Lar, Kaw Thay Der, Naw Soe forced to porter them to Bu Hsa Khi. Village cars are required to go first. One car [bullock cart?], belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] of Kaw Thay Der, hit a landmine on the Maw Chi Road and was injured.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 216
Report Number CIDKP-2008-12
Date Submitted: 7 May 2008
Location: Maw Nay Bwa area
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Ta Htu Maw Nay Bwa
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 8 332 1,794
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-9, MOC-16, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-539 Infantry Battalions IB-25, IB-30, IB-53, IB-73, IB-92, Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 217
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 218
CIDKP 2008-12 ERA Request Summary 7 May 2008
Demographics
1,794 people (332 households) from 8 villages in Thandaung Township, Karen State: Ler Klar Der, Hu Me Der, Keh Der, Hgaw Po Loe, Mwee Loe, Wah Loe, K’ser Doh, and Pae Taw Day. KNU: Maw Nay Bwa area, Htaw Hta Hto Township, Taw Oo District. 317 children (149 girls and 168 boys < 5), and 700 females and 777 males > 5
Located east of Tan Ta Bin Town and west of Yaw Loe Klo River. Mixed administration area
Rationale:
November 2007 MOC-21 commenced operations, which coincided with road construction (Tha Pye Nyunt – Ka Mu Loe – Si Daw Kho) and continues up to report date.
Travel restrictions and land mines prevented villagers from harvesting betel nut and cardamom with losses equivalent to 66,760,000 kyat or 2,002,800 baht.
2/08 MOC-9 started forest fires that destroyed 51 betel nut and 46 cardamom plantations with losses equivalent to 36,540,000 kyat or 1,096,200 baht. Harvests were much lower in 2008 as a result.
Troops shot and killed 7 people, wounded 11, and arbitrarily arrested 12 more (taken to Toungoo Town) during the first 4 months of 2007.
IB-53 seized 20 viss of fish paste from one of the villages targeted for ERA.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 219
ERA Request 7 May 2008
Topography and Livelihoods:
Steep hills and valleys. Yaw Loe Klo is the largest river. Paddy cultivation and long-term orchards (betel nut, durian, cardamom, mangosteen, and dog fruit). People without orchards do wage labor during sowing, weeding, and harvesting. Some work in nearby towns and/or Thailand to support their families.
1975 “Four Cut” operations destroyed the villages and orchards. Troops later withdrew and people returned.
1997 “Scorched Earth” operations did the same and large-scale offensives followed every 2-3 years. People shifted focus to cash crops and forest products to buy rice as a result. Conditions improved somewhat after 2002.
2006 offensive resulted in militarization: road construction and the establishment of new camps in hilly regions and relocation sites (Shar Ze Bo, Ye Shan, Ze ‘Pyu Gone, and Taw Gone). The elderly, women, and children live in the camps, while the men travel to work in their fields, orchards, and jungles at great risk. “It is very dangerous, some were shot by the Burma army and died or wounded.”
People in the relocation sites are forced to provide labor (porter, cleaning clearing roads, etc.).
Forests are burned every year, destroying plantations and IDP hiding areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 220
Military Operations:
2006 SPDC troops establish camps at Hu Me Der, Play Hsar Loe, Htee Nya Pae Loe, Tone Bo, and Swa Loe.
2007 More camps at Kler Hgo Day (Hu Me Der area) and Toe Hta (Ler Klar Der area), and Bo Moe Khi (Shar Ze Bo area). People moved to relocation sites where forced labor high. Travel restrictions make movement to and from the sites very difficult. Weeds, excess/insufficient water, and animals damage crops reducing food security further.
Prior 11/07 MOC-9 troops were active in the area.
11/07 onwards MOC-21 arrived to oversee road construction and the transport of military rations. After transport completed MOC-9 returned [to base elsewhere?].
18/2 – 7/3/08 MOC-9 burned forests which destroyed cardamom and betel nut harvest, reducing crops in 2008 as well.
2008 road construction (Tha Pye Nyunt – Ka Mu Loe – Si Daw Kho) starts and is ongoing.
No date Dam built on Day Loe River at Tone Bo. Troops regularly patrol area between Tone Bo and Swa Loe.
Between November 2007 and January 2008 people found violating the travel restrictions “will shot to death.” Landmines planted, making it even more dangerous to travel to and from fields and plantations at night. Troops regularly fired mortars into plantation sites and IDP hiding areas.
Betel Nut and Cardamom Losses (Plantations)
No. Village Betel Nut Cardamom 1 Ler Klar Der 6 8 2 Hu Me Der 13 14 3 Keh Der 9 12 4 Hgaw Po Loe 4 6 5 Mwee Loe 5 6 6 Wah Loe 4 0 7 K’Ser Doh 6 0 8 Pae Taw Day 4 0 51 46
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 221
Lost Income by Village and Household (Fall Harvest November-December 2007)
No. Village Households Type Total Losses Averages (kyat) (kyat) 1 Ler Kler 41 Betel Nut 6,150,000 2,500/household/day Der 2 Ler Kler 41 Cardamom 3,280,000 10 viss/household at 8,000 Der viss 3 Hu Me Der 67 Betel Nut 10,050,000 2,500/household/day 4 Hu Me Der 67 Cardamom 5,360,000 20 viss/household at 8,000/viss 5 Keh Der 57 Betel Nut 8,550,000 2,500/househol/day 6 Keh Der 57 Cardamom 4,560,000 10 viss/household at 8,000/viss 7 Hgaw Po 18 Betel Nut 2,700,000 2,500/household/day Loe 8 Hgaw Po 18 Cardamom 1,440,000 10 viss/household at Loe 8,000/viss 9 Mwee Loe 29 Betel Nut 4,350,000 2,500/household/day 10 Mwee Loe 29 Cardamom 2,320,000 10 viss/household at 8,000/viss 11 Wah Loe 8 Betel Nut 1,200,000 2,500/household/day 12 K’Ser Doh 54 Betel Nut 8,100,000 2,500/household/day 13 Pae Taw 58 Betel Nut 8,700,000 2,500/household/day Day 97 66,760,000
Household average losses: 500,00 kyat/betel nut plantation and 240,000 kyat/cardamom plantation.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 222
Human Rights Situation Update 2007-2008:
16/11/07 IB-73 demands 4 people from each village (Shar Ze Bo, Ye Shan, Ze Pyu Gone, and Taw Gone) to clean military camps. Required 7 days to complete.
19/11/07 IB-73 demands 7 people from Taw Gone and 10 from Ze Pyu Gone to build a fence around the camp. Required 5 days to complete.
20/11/07 IB-73 demands 15 people from Shar Ze Bo, 15 from Ze Pyu Gone, 17 from Taw Gone, and 12 from Ye Shan to build a new camp at Ta Sar Khi. People had to bring their own food and it required 10 days to complete.
11/12/07 IB-53 arrives in Shar Ze Bo and orders 30 people to transport 30 baskets of paddy from Shar Ze Bo to Htee Nya Pae Loe camp. One day walk to carry out.
20/12/07 IB-53 confiscated 20 viss of fish paste (80,000 kyat from 2 Mwee Loe villagers (Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted]).
15/2/08 IB-73 orders 180 men and 120 women from Shar Ze Bo to build [clear?] a car road from Lay Di to Shar Ze Bo. It required 10 days to complete.
26/2/08 onwards IB-73 imposes travel restrictions. People not permitted to go and cut bamboo, logs, collect roofing leaves to sell during dry season, etc. On average, people lost 2,000 kyat/day. Restrictions not lifted until time report written.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 223
List of people killed, wounded, arrested in Taw Oo District: January – July 2007
No. Date Name Age Father’s Village Unit Remarks Name 1 29/1/07 Saw [Name 26 Saw [Name Hu Me Der MOC- Shot and killed Redacted] Redacted] 16 en route to farm 2 28/3/07 Saw [Name 25 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB- Shot and Redacted] Redacted] Der 539 wounded in betel nut garden 3 28/3/07 Saw [Name 18 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB- Shot and Redacted] Redacted] Der 539 wounded in betel nut garden 4 3/4/07 Saw [Name 35 Saw [Name Plaw Baw IB-25 Shot and Redacted] Redacted] Der wounded in betel nut garden 5 3/4/07 Saw [Name 39 Saw [Name K’Ser Doh IB-25 Killed mortar Redacted] Redacted] shell 6 3/4/07 Naw [Name 29 Saw [Name K’Ser Doh IB-25 Killed mortar Redacted] Redacted] shell 7 3/4/07 Saw [Name 49 Saw [Name Shar Ze Bo IB-25 Killed mortar Redacted] Redacted] shell 8 3/4/07 Saw [Name 28 Saw [Name Pae Taw IB-25 Killed mortar Redacted] Redacted] Day shell 9 3/4/07 Saw [Name 2 Saw [Name Pae Taw MOC- Killed mortar Redacted] Redacted] Day 9 shell IB- 539 10 1/5/07 Saw [Name 35 Saw [Name Klaw Me MOC- Shot and killed Redacted] Redacted] Der 9 in betel nut garden 11 6/5/07 Saw [Name 28 Saw [Name Klaw Me MOC- Shot and Killed Redacted] Redacted] Der 9 in betel nut garden 12 4/7/07 Saw [Name 60 Saw [Name Mwee Loe MOC- Shot and killed Redacted] Redacted] 9 in betel nut garden 13 4/7/07 Saw [Name 25 Saw [Name Shar Ze Bo MOC- Shot and Redacted] Redacted] 9 wounded in cardamom garden 14 20/9/07 Saw [Name 31 Saw [Name Keh Der MOC- Shot and Redacted] Redacted] 9 wounded in cardamom garden 15 3/11/07 Saw [Name 24 Saw [Name Hu Me Der MOC- Shot and Redacted] Redacted] 9 wounded en
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 224
No. Date Name Age Father’s Village Unit Remarks Name route to Hu Me Der 16 3/11/07 Saw [Name 23 Saw [Name Hu Me Der MOC- Shout and Redacted] Redacted] 9 wounded en route to Hu Me Der 17 13/11/07 Saw [Name 27 Saw [Name Hu Me Der MOC- Shot and killed Redacted] Redacted] 9 18 15/11/07 Saw [Name 32 Saw [Name Keh Der MOC- Shot and killed Redacted] Redacted] 9 19 9/6/07 Saw [Name 32 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Der Toungoo jail 20 9/6/07 Naw [Name 49 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Der Toungoo jail 21 9/6/07 Naw [Name 17 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Der Toungoo jail 22 9/6/07 Saw [Name 27 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Der Toungoo jail 23 9/6/07 Saw [Name 27 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB-92 Arrested in Redacted] Redacted] Der Toungoo jail 24 9/6/07 Saw [Name 18 Saw [Name Ler Klar IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Der Toungoo jail 25 9/6/07 Saw [Name 23 Saw [Name Taw Oo IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Toungoo jail 26 9/6/07 Saw [Name 35 Saw [Name Ze Pyu IB-92 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Gone Toungoo jail 27 4/7/07 Saw [Name 25 Saw [Name Mwee IB-30 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Loe/Shar Toungoo jail Ze Bu 28 4/7/07 Naw [Name 18 Saw [Name Mwee IB-30 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Loe/Shar Toungoo jail Ze Bu 29 4/7/07 Naw [Name 45 Saw [Name Ta Per Khi IB-30 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Toungoo jail 30 4/7/07 Naw [Name 17 Saw [Name Ta Per Khi IB-30 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Toungoo jail 31 4/7/07 Saw [Name 50 Saw [Name Ta Per Khi IB-30 Arrested Redacted] Redacted] Toungoo jail
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 225
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Total 1 K’ser Doh 54 121 99 27 23 270 2 Hu Me Der 67 143 130 41 28 342 3 Keh Der 57 122 116 26 23 287 4 Hgaw Po Loe 18 42 33 9 9 93 5 Mwee Loe 29 78 61 23 16 178 6 Pae Taw Day 58 157 141 22 27 347 7 Ler Klar Der 41 95 101 13 17 229 8 Wah Loe 8 19 16 7 6 48 332 777 700 168 149 1,794
Rice can be purchased in Shar Ze Bo and Za Yat Gyi in Tantabin area (12,000 kyat/tin).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 226
Report Number CIDKP-2008-16
Date Submitted: 29 October 2008
Location: Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Toungoo Thandaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Taw Oo Htaw Hta Htu Maw Nay Pwa Kaw Thay Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 14 283 1,572
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-56, LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-367, LIB- 483, LIB-601, LIB-701, LIB-706, LIB-707 Infantry Battalions IB-223 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 227
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-346, LIB-372 Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 228
CIDKP-2008-16 ERA Request Summary 29 October 2008
Demographics:
1,572 people (283 households) from 14 villages in Thandaung Township, Pegu Division. KNU: Maw Nay Pwa and Kaw Thay Der Village Tracts, Htaw Ta Htu Township, Taw Oo District.
Hillside paddy cultivation and cardamom are the primary source of food and income. Highland area and villagers flee whenever SPDC troops approach.
Rationale:
LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-701, LIB-706, LIB-367, and LIB-366 of MOC-10 and IB-223 of MOC- 21 patrolled this area from early September through late October.
12/9/08 LIB-363 forced 200 villagers back to their homes preventing them from working in their cardamom plantations. LIB-364 fired 15 mortars into plantation sites in Maw Thay Der, Ku Ler Der, and Klay Soe Khee that same day. A 15 year-old boy was killed [location not specified].
1/9/08 LIB-364 fired 10 more mortars and a 14 year-old boy was wounded [location not specified].
1/10/08 LIB-706 fired 30 mortars into cardamom plantations in 6 villages. LIB-223 of MOC-21 and LIB-707 formed 2 columns and patrolled this area for 2 weeks. During this period, troops regularly shelled and fired machine guns into the area where they suspected villagers to be hiding.
2/1-/08 A Maw Thay Der villager (age 32) stepped on a landmine and was killed.
Due to SPDC patrols prevented villagers from tending/harvesting crops. Insects destroyed 222 paddy fields that would have produced 11,100 tins of paddy and 5,660 viss of cardamom, belonging to 283 families (valued at 45,280,000 kyat) as a result.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 229
ERA Assessment Report
Background, Topography, and Livelihood:
Hills and valleys with Yaw Loe River being the largest. One car road exists, Kler Lar – Bu Hsa Keh, is used to transport military supplies.
Villages from Maw Thay Der, Ku Ler Der, Law Bee Ler, Hgaw Htu Toe, Per Loe, Hsaw War Der, Si Keh Der, May Daw Kho, Si Daw Kho, Bway Baw Der, Saw Mu Der, Wa Me Ber Kho, Sa War Daw Kho and Paw Mu Der moved to the Yaw Loe River area in 1997 due to offensives and military orders to relocate away from the road.
Prior to 2006, many people left their hiding places and returned to their villages. But the 2006 offensive led to the establishment of more military camps along the Kler Lar – Bu Hsa Khee Road, which led to another round of displacement. Search-and-destroy missions have made it very difficult to grow enough rice and cash crops (cardamom, betel nut, etc.), in part because soils are poor, while travel restrictions prevent them from trading with lowland populations.
During 2008 pests destroyed / damaged almost all of the crops for the aforementioned reasons.
Villagers do not raise animals (chickens, ducks, pigs) or keep dogs because they fear their noises will reveal where they are hiding.
Troops are still able to use the road during rainy season, but patrols in the jungle also continue, so people have to remain alert year-round. Mortar attacks targeting hiding areas occur regularly.
Military Operations:
10/9/08 onwards Ko Ko Lat from MOC-10 ordered his troops to enter and “wipe out in Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nay Bwa” [destroy?].
12/9/08 LIB-363, led by Lt. Col. Htint Lwin, based in Pa Let Wa, banned villagers from working in their cardamom plantations and ordered them to remain in their villagers. LIB-364 troops, led by BC Tin Ko Ko, based in Klay Soe Khi camp, fired 15 mortars into Maw Thay Der, Ku Ler Der, and Klay Soe Khi. Saw [Name Redacted] (age 14), son of Saw [Name Redacted], was injured.
25/9/08 Yer Loe villager, Maw [Name Redacted] (age 35), son of Saw [Name Redacted], lost a leg when he stepped on a landmine while traveling from Yer Loe to Paw Mu Der.
1/10/08 LIB-706, led by BC Aung Naing Oo, from MOC-10, based in Naw Soe camp, fired mortars into cardamom plantations in Saw War Der, May Daw Kho, Per Loe, Si Keh Der, Law Bee Ler, and Hgaw Toe. 30 of them landed. IB-223, from MOC-21, left that same day and patrolled the Mwee Lo area for two weeks, and then into areas around Keh Der and Paw Mu Der. LIB-483 left that same day and patrolled Play Hsar Lo for 2 weeks, and then the areas around Paw Mu Der and Wa Me Ber Kho.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 230
2/10/08 Maw Thay Der villager, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 32), son of Saw [Name Redacted], died after stepping on a landmine at Hser Law Hta (located in the Maw Thay Der area). IB-56 left that same day and patrolled Ka Mu Loe for 2 weeks and the conducted operations in Bway Baw Der, Si Daw Kho, and Saw Mu Der areas. LIB-707 left Kler Lar that same day and changed positions with LIB-701 at Naw Soe, which is located between Naw Soe and Bu Hsa Khee. LIB- 707 regularly fired mortars into plantations and suspected hiding places.
5-6/10/08 LIB-701, led by BC Min Kyi Oo, returned from Naw Soe. They passed through May Daw Kho, Hgaw Htu Toe, Maw Thay Der, and Ku Ler Der areas and regularly launched mortars and fired machine guns and small arms into suspected hiding places.
8/10/08 LIB-367 from MOC-10 changed positions with LIB-366 at Ku Ler Der and Maw Thay Der camps. LIB-366 returned to Taungoo Town that same day. LIB-366 launched mortars and fired machine guns and small arms into suspected hiding areas while en route.
9/10/08 LIB-601 of MOC-21 changed positions with LIB-56, led by BC Soe Haling [Hlaing] and 2nd BC Aung Min Soe at Si Daw Kho camp, and began operations in the Si Daw Kho area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 231
Destruction of Cardamom Fields
No. Name of Village Households Number of Fields Estimated Value 1 Saw Mu Der 9 9 1,440,000 2 Bway Baw Der 6 6 960,000 3 Paw Mu Der 10 10 1,600,000 4 Sa War Daw Kho 7 7 1,120,000 5 Wa Me Ber Kho 20 15 3,200,000 6 Si Daw Kho 42 30 6,720,000 7 Si Khe Der 23 15 3,680,000 8 Per Loe 14 14 2,240,000 9 Hgaw Htu Toe 30 25 4,800,000 10 Maw Daw Kho 18 14 2,880,000 11 Law Bee Ler 17 13 2,720,000 12 Ku Ler Der 32 22 5,120,000 13 Maw Thay Der 25 18 4,000,000 14 Hsaw War Der 30 24 4,800,000 283 222 45,800,000
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 232
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. Village Tracts Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Total 1 Maw Nay Bwa Saw Mu Der 9 22 18 4 4 48 2 Maw Nay Bwa Bway Baw Der 6 18 6 1 1 26 3 Maw Nay Bwa Paw Mu Der 10 16 14 3 2 40 4 Maw Nay Bwa Sa War Daw Kho 7 25 10 3 2 40 5 Maw Nay Bwa Wa Me Ber Kho 20 58 38 4 2 102 6 Maw Nay Bwa Si Daw Kho 42 144 124 23 21 312 7 Kaw Thay Der Si Keh Der 23 51 78 12 8 149 8 Kaw Thay Der Per Loe 14 34 28 6 6 74 9 Kaw Thay Der Hgaw Htu Toe 30 50 57 20 15 142 10 Kaw Thay Der Maw Daw Kho 18 38 42 10 8 98 11 Kaw Thay Der Law Bee Ler 17 40 38 6 6 90 12 Kaw Thay Der Ku Ler Der 32 69 72 14 11 166 13 Kaw Thay Der Maw Thay Der 25 44 64 9 8 125 14 Kaw Thay Der Hsaw War Der 30 73 69 11 13 166 283 682 658 126 106 1,572
KNU able to provide early warning so people often able to avoid attacks. KNLA troops also try to delay or change SDPC troop movements to permit escape.
Rice can be bought in Kler Lar, Kaw Thay Der, while those close to Mone Township [Kyaukkyi] can buy it there. Sometimes it is possible to buy rice in Lu Thaw Township [Papun], but this must be arranged in advanced and done “half-way,” i.e., in the jungle. Travel time to buy rice in all cases is 2-3 days typically. 1 tin costs 15,000 kyat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 233
Focus group interviews I 15 September 2008
Participants (age):
1) Saw [Name Redacted] (62), Saw [Name Redacted] (57), and Naw [Name Redacted] (57) of Wa Me Ber Kho Village; 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (58), Saw [Name Redacted] (45), and Saw [Name Redacted] (57) of Paw Mu Der Village; 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (50), Saw [Name Redacted] (49), and Saw [Name Redacted] (28) of Sa War Daw Kho Village.
Q1: Tell us about your livelihoods
“In the second week of May 2008, the SPDC army who lived in Play Hsar Lo started their activities and enter to our area and shot us when we were sowing, so we had to left our farms and fields and we could not do it anymore. Some of the villager run away and go to the border of Burma and Thailand. Some village (like us) lived in hiding place in the jungle till they stopped their activities. We have to work hard at collecting cardamom and betel nuts and solid it and the money that we got we had to buy rice for our daily food. This year we have difficulty because we did not have enough food and because the SPDC still have their activities. Also the place that we plant paddy, the soil is poor for the paddy and the seed of paddy is also not good enough and more than that when we cut trees and bushes for preparing paddy farms, the SPDC army (MOC- 21), which is located in Play Hsar Lo and Htee Pla Day, came up and practice operations from May till June, so we did not have any security to go to work or do something…”
“Every year, the SPDC army burnt the forest, so our plants were damaged by the fire and we couldn’t do it anymore. The fruits that we got we sold them and the money that we got we bought rice….”
Q2: Let us know about your security in the places where you live.
“We built our hut with bamboo and we had to build two or three huts in many places, depending on the security we can move place to place. If the SPDC army is going to be active and if we should move to the other place the security guard let us know.” [A list of camps follows: “between Kler La and Bu Hsa Khi (Bu Sar Gyi) car road, west of their river like Si Daw Kho, Ler Wah Soe, Ka Mu Loe, Play Hsar Loe, Htee Pla Day, Mwee Loe, Klar Hgo Day (Hu Mu Der), Klaw Mee Der, are all the army camps surrounding us.] If the SPDC army is active in the west, we move to the east side of the river, and if they are active in the east, we move to the west. If the SPDC is active on both sides, we had to separate ourselves for many groups and move to another place.”
Q5: How many times did you move in 2008?
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 234
“In February of 2008 in our areas, when we lived in Ka Yer Lo, the SPDC army, based in Bu Hsar Khi and Plo Mu Der, across the Yaw Lo River, came to us and [conducted operations] in Si Daw Kho for about 2 weeks, at Ka Ker Lo about 2 weeks and at Htee Ne Khee area about two weeks, so we had to move 3 times in 2 months.”
“Once again at May till June, IB-47 from MOC/OCH-21 and other groups stayed at Play Hsar Lo, Htee Pla Day, Kla Hgo Day, came to Yer Lo, Kho Lu (Paw Mu Der), Wa Mee Per Kho, Saw Tay Der (Sa War Daw Kho) and were active there for 2 months, so that we had to flee in the jungle and we could not look after our paddy fields.”
“The SPDC army saw our villagers’ paddy stores and destroyed all of them. Also, in July and August, MOC-21, based in Play Hsar Lo, Htee Pla Day, and Kla Hgo Day, were active one in two weeks. They did not arrive to our hiding place but we always have to be careful.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 235
Focus Group Interviews II
Participants (age)
1) Saw [Name Redacted] (48), Naw [Name Redacted] (41), Naw [Name Redacted] (41), Saw [Name Redacted] (38) of Si Daw Kho Village. 2) Naw [Name Redacted] (38), Saw [Name Redacted] (40), Saw [Name Redacted] (35) of Saw Mu Der Village. 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (35) of Bway Baw Der Village.
Q1: Livelihoods
“In the third week of May 2007, while we sowed paddy, the SPDC army, based in Bu Hsa Khee and Plo Mu Der, crossed the river and shot us in the farm and three of the villagers died, three were injured, and we had to leave … Ka Yer Loe… Because the SPDC army set up more camps near our hiding place, so in 2007 of December, we moved to another place. Also, the soil is not good for paddy, and it was near the SPDC army, and we had to farm with fearfully, so it was difficult for us. Because the SPDC often change their army and active, so we couldn’t do much about planting paddy…”
“Usually we work in our cardamom garden, betel nut garden, and betel leaves garden. When the SPDC active in our area in 2006 we did as their leader ordered and burnt out plants every year… In the past, we went to our gardens and collected the fruits and sold them and we got money for buying rice, but now we did not do anything about our plants because all of them are damaged. Now the things we do everyday are: 1. Cut bamboo, make bamboo string, make mats, cut wood, and exchange them for rice. 2. Cut bamboo shoots and make them dry and exchange them for rice. 3. Men find the honey and exchange them for rice. 4. Women go to the forest and collect vegetables that the people who live in the plans want to eat, go to them, and exchange for rice.
Q7: SPDC activities
SPDC troops increased operations in 2006 from Tha Pye Nyunt to Bu Hsa Khee. In November 2007, they established a camp in our village (Si Daw Kho).
Troops constructed a road in 2007 from Tha Pye Nyunt to Ka Mu Loe.
Troops constructed road from Ka Mu Loe to Ka Mu Khee and wanted to build from Si Daw Kho to Bu Hsa Khee. The camps close to us were: Ka Mu Loe, Ler Wah, and Si Daw Kho.
From April to June troops, based in Bu Hsa Khee and Plo Mu Der, and troops, based in Si Daw Kho, conducted joint operations in Si Daw Kho, Bway Baw Der, Saw Mu Der, and Saw Tay Der, during sowing season.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 236
SPDC troops, based in Ler Wah Lu and Si Daw Kho, conducted operations [no date] “to wipe out the area they shot down mortars and also shot guns and they did like this twice or thrice a week until now.”
During the third week of September, SPDC troops, based in Si Daw Kho, found a hiding site in the Ler Yaw area and conducted operations there for one week.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 237
ERA Impact Assessment 29 June 2009
Impact Assessment conducted 10 December 2008 – 11 March 2009
Security and Livelihood Issues
Villagers who received ERA remain in hiding sites. The SPDC “keep [regard] then as their enemies so the villagers had to stay carefully to [remain] safe from the killing and arresting by the SPDC.”
15/2/09 LIB-372 shot and “hit” [killed or wounded unclear] villagers from Hsaw War Der who had bought food in Kay Thay Der and were on their way home. The people include: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 24); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 25); 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 14); and 4) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 20), “and arrested the villagers who got hit [wounded] and sent him to Kler Lar camp. Later they were sent to Taw Oo.”
21/3/09 SPDC troops, based at Kler Lar, shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (age 30) from Maw Thay Der, who had bought food in Kaw Thay Der.
During March SPDC troops, based at Kler Lar and Kaw They Der, conducted patrols in IDP hiding areas. IDPs in Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nay Ba had to flee for one week.
April SPDC troops conducted operations around the car road and often instituted travel restrictions (no cars or people on foot permitted to travel along it). Troops regularly close the road for 7-10 days, especially when high-ranking officials use it and they are transporting military supplies.
May SPDC troops, based in Kler Lar and Kaw Thay Der, conducted patrols in IDP hiding areas. IDPs in Kaw Thay Der and Maw Nay Ba areas had to leave their sites for 5 days.
8/5 – 12/5/09 LIB-346, two columns, departed Kler Lar and traveled to Ku Ler Der and Maw Thay Der where they conducted patrols. After which, they crossed the Yaw Lo Klo River and conducted operations in the following areas: Paw Mu Der, Saw Tay Der, and War Me Per Kho areas. They also conducted operations in Hgo Khi area and fired many mortars into places close to the car road. “Every year in summer their leaders ordered them to burn the jungle, also shot down mortars in many places, so all the orchards of the villagers like betel nut, cardamom, and other plants were burnt…”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 238
Report Number Et Tu Hta IDP Camp
Date Submitted: 31 May 2006
Location: Bu Tho Township, Mu Traw (Hpapun State)
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Karen Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Bu Tho Pah Haik
Zone: IDP Camp
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 45 270 1,379
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 239
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 240
Et Tu Hta IDP Camp ERA 31 May 2006
Demographics:
Ee Tu Hta in Pah Haik Village Tract, Bu Tho Township, Mu Traw [Hpapun].
958 IDPs in temporary shelter area. Most IDPs are from Daw Pha Kho (Thandaung) and Htaw Ta Htu (Tantabin) Townships, Taw Oo (Taungoo) District. Some from Karenni and Mon townships.
Camp committee will oversee ERA distribution (rice, salt, fish-paste, yellow bean, cooking oil, chili, etc.) with assistance from KORD, CIDKP, KWO, and KTWG as coordinating team. o KORD: food assistance o CIDKP: health care o KWO: services for women and children as well as disabled persons o KTWG: education
Military Operations:
Affected townships: lowland areas under SPDC control and troops target civilians in highlands, although some areas also under SPDC control.
Forced labor, extortion, portering, etc. are common in lowland areas. People in highland areas “do not show themselves to the SPDC as the SPDC regarded them as their enemies. Villagers are easy to kill as they are found. Therefore, people in this area are always running away as they hear that the SPDC troops come close to them.”
Most of the IDPs have been “on the run” for many years, i.e., experienced multiple displacements.
November 2005 onwards: battalions under Division 66, Southern Command, and MOC-16 conducted operations in the area. Villagers had to flee with little to no food.
Strategy: to drive out civilians and to take control. Troops set up successive short-term camps to push people from hiding place to hiding place and further limit access to food. Due to conditions, 1,500 people have entered Mae Ra Ma Luang camp. Currently, 958 people are in the Ee Tu Hta camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 241
Background:
January 2006 LID-66 entered Taw Oo District. During January-February troops killed 6, 8 arrested, and hundreds of people forced to work for the army, food and animals looted, etc. Travel restrictions imposed, landmines laid, etc.
28 February Emergency committee for IDPs formed on the border at Kho Kay to provide assistance to people affected by offensive.
Many of the IDPs indicated that they did not want to cross into Thailand, if there was a secure place with shelter and food to remain until the situation stabilized. The Ee Tu Hta camp created for this purpose, and is located on the west bank of the Salween River, opposite of Mae Sa Ku Hta, on the Thai side.
20 April Camp committee, consisting of 11 members, formed.
Current Situation:
Situation in all 7 districts of Karen State are bad, the 4 worst being: Hta Ta Htoo and Daw Pa Kho, Taw Oo (Taung Oo), Kler Lwi Htu (Nyaunglebin), and Mu Traw (Papun).
Dramatic increase in SPDC and DKBA troops in frontline areas since the beginning of 2006. “We are not sure or even don’t know what the purpose are but one possibility is to annihilate or to completely destroy or defeat the KNU or the Karen resistance group or to take sufficient security for the new capital.”
Total IDP population:
1,379 people from 270 households from 45 different villages from 10 different village tracts from 5 different townships in 3 different districts of Karen and Karenni States.
Of them: 574 people (114 households) from 29 villages, 6 different village tracts, in 4 different townships, of 3 different districts went to refugee camps in Thailand. Remaining 805 (156 households) from 33 different villages from 9 village tracts in 3 different townships of 2 different districts are in the Ee Tu Hta IDP camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 242
Villages and Number of People Affected
No. District Township Village Village Households Households Households Total Tract at IDP at IDP Total Camp Camp (People) (People) 20/4- 10/5/2006 1 Taw Hta Ta Per Ti Shan Si 15 (66) 0 15 66 Oo Htoo Bo 2 Taw Hta Ta Per Ti K’Ser 7 (29) 2 (7) 9 36 Oo Htoo Doh 3 Taw Hta Ta Kho Thi Chi 1 (4) 1 4 Oo Htoo Khee Hsaik 4 Taw Hta Ta Kho Klea 6 (32) 14 (54) 20 86 Oo Htoo Khee Khee 5 Taw Hta Ta Kho Bu 4 (21) 0 4 21 Oo Htoo Khee Khee 6 Taw Hta Ta Kho Kho 2 (8) 0 2 8 Oo Htoo Khee Khee 7 Taw Hta Ta Kho Ta Aye 5 (20) 1 (5) 6 25 Oo Htoo Khee Khee 8 Taw Hta Ta Kho Hi 2 (9) 5 (24) 7 33 Oo Htoo Khee Daw Khaw 9 Taw Hta Ta Kho Si Daw 5 (20) 0 5 20 Oo Htoo Khee Kho 10 Taw Hta Ta Kaw Si 21 (105) 14 (80) 35 186 Oo Htoo Thay Kheh Der Der 11 Taw Hta Ta Kaw Plo Mu 7 (37) 4 (18) 11 54 Oo Htoo Thay Der Der 12 Taw Hta Ta Kaw Ta 12 (61) 0 12 61 Oo Htoo Thay Kwee Der So 13 Taw Hta Ta Kaw May 0 3 (15) 3 15 Oo Htoo Thay Daw Der Kho 14 Taw Hta Ta Kaw Khaw 0 4 (19) 4 19 Oo Htoo Thay Tu Der Taw 15 Taw Hta Ta Kaw Hsaw 0 1 (7) 1 7 Oo Htoo Thay Wa Der Der
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 243
No. District Township Village Village Households Households Households Total Tract at IDP at IDP Total Camp Camp (People) (People) 20/4- 10/5/2006 16 Karenni Bawlake Kay Pu Htee 2 (13) 0 2 13 Pho 17 Mu Lu Thaw Maw Htee 2 (17) 0 2 17 Traw Nay Po Lor Bwa 18 Taw Hta Ta Maw Bway 2 (7) 10 (59) 12 66 Oo Htoo Nay Baw Bwa Der 19 Taw Hta Ta Maw Plaw 1 (3) 0 1 3 Oo Htoo Nay Baw Bwa Der 20 Taw Hta Ta Maw Hu Mu 1 (3) 1 (3) 2 6 Oo Htoo Nay Der Bwa 21 Taw Hta Ta Maw Wa Mi 0 5 (29) 5 29 Oo Htoo Nay Per Bwa Kho 22 Taw Hta Ta Maw Sa Wa 0 4 (24) 4 24 Oo Htoo Nay Daw Bwa Kho 23 Taw Hta Ta Maw Klaw 0 2 (7) 2 7 Oo Htoo Nay Me Der Bwa 24 Taw Hta Ta Maw Poh 0 3 (11) 3 11 Oo Htoo Nay Pah Bwa 25 Taw Hta Ta Maw Yu Lo 0 5 (27) 5 27 Oo Htoo Nay Bwa 26 Taw Hta Ta Maw Ta Pa 0 2 (15) 2 15 Oo Htoo Nay Khee Bwa 27 Taw Hta Ta Maw Saw 3 (21) 12 (71) 15 92 Oo Htoo Nay Mu Bwa Der 28 Taw Hta Ta Maw Po Mu 2 (5) 16 (82) 18 87 Oo Htoo Nay Der Bwa
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 244
No. District Township Village Village Households Households Households Total Tract at IDP at IDP Total Camp Camp (People) (People) 20/4- 10/5/2006 29 Taw Hta Ta Maw Bu Hsa 1 (30) 2 (10) 3 40 Oo Htoo Nay Khee Bwa 30 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Pa 1 (7) 0 1 7 Oo Kho Mu Weh Htaw Der Kah 31 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Pa 1 (7) 15 (70) 16 77 Oo Kho Mu Weh Htaw 32 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Ler 1 (3) 1 (7) 2 10 Oo Kho Mu Ker Htaw Der Kho 33 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Wah 4 (22) 1 (6) 5 28 Oo Kho Mu Lo Htaw 34 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Pa 1 (3) 0 1 3 Oo Kho Mu Weh Htaw Der Kho 35 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Ler 2 (9) 1 (3) 3 12 Oo Kho Mu Ker Htaw Der Tha 36 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Ker 1 (2) 2 (5) 3 7 Oo Kho Mu Der Htaw Kah 37 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Pa Der 1 (4) 3 (16) 4 20 Oo Kho Mu Kah Htaw 38 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Sa Ba 1 (5) 0 1 5 Oo Kho Mu Lor Htaw Khee 39 Taw Daw Pa Klay Koe 0 4 (26) 4 26 Oo Kho Wa Mu Haw Htaw Der 40 Taw Daw Pa Klay Maw 0 1 (4) 1 4 Oo Kho Wa Mu Tu Der Htaw
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 245
No. District Township Village Village Households Households Households Total Tract at IDP at IDP Total Camp Camp (People) (People) 20/4- 10/5/2006 41 Taw Daw Pa Klay Wai La 0 1 (5) 1 5 Oo Kho Wa Mu Kaw Htaw 42 Taw Daw Pa Klay They 0 3 (17) 3 17 Oo Kho Wa Mu Ya Yu Htaw 43 Taw Daw Pa Day Lo Khaw 0 1 (8) 1 8 Oo Kho Mu Nu Law Kah 44 Mu Bu Tho Pah Ko Ra 0 5 (31) 5 31 Traw Heh Hta 45 Mu Bu Tho Kaw Ko 0 8 (41) 8 41 Traw Pu Law Hta 3 5 10 45 29 (114) 33 (156) 270 1,379
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 246
Appendix B Mone Township (Nyaunglebin District, Bago Region)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 247
Report Number CIDKP-2004-05
Date Submitted: 18 March 2004
Location: Adjacent to southern edge of Toungoo District
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Kyauk Pa Hsaw Tay Der Yaw Khi Thet Ba Der
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 281 1,819
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-20 Infantry Battalions IB-590, IB-599 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions LIB-73 Infantry Battalions IB-20, IB-590, IB-599 Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 248
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 249
CIDKP-2004-5 ERA Request Summary 18 March 2004
Demographics
1,819 people (281 HH) 9 villages in Mone Township (Pegu District) adjacent to southern edge of Toungoo District. KNU: Kyauk Pa, Hsaw Tay Der, Yaw Khi, and Thet Ba Der Village Tracts of Mone Township (Kler Lwee Htoo District). 119 boys and 123 girls under 5; 792 females over 5 and 785 males over 5
Immediately south of Taungoo District. The area is mountainous in which the KNU maintain administrative links, but is closed to SPDC controlled towns at Mon and Paungseik.
TBBC Comments
- Lacks the documentation of CIDKP 2004-01, but this is likely due to their involvement in ceasefire talks. - Two prior ERA trips to township within the past 6 months, but none to these village tracts. CIDKP-2003-16 was further to the south and KORD-2003-8 was to the east.
Background
Prior to 1974-1975 the area was under KNU’s total control. But after the Four Cuts, which started then, this changed, yet people still under their administration. Between 1985-1988 military operations declined and people returned to the area, but this changed after 1997 when the scorched earth campaigns began. The military has conducted “search-kill-destroy” operations every year since 1997.
SPDC Actions:
LIB-20 operating in Hsaw Tay Der and Thet Baw Der Village Tracts. On 27-10-03 LIB-20 Column 1 entered and conducted operations in the area for about two weeks. 19 paddy farms burned and 34 plots of paddy were ruined because people afraid to return: crops rotted and eaten by animals.
IB-599 and LIB-590 operating in Kyauk Pa and Yaw Khi Village Tracts. On 12-11-03 LIB-599 Column 2 entered and conducted operations in the area for about one week and then LIB-590 replaced them and they continued for about 10 days (7 houses burnt, 4 paddy farms destroyed, 34 plots of paddy farms ruined as above). IDP, Saw Kaw Law, was shot and killed [who not specified], 13 tins of rice eaten by soldiers, and 45 kg of salt poured on the ground, and 6 kg of tobacco seized.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 250
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Total 1 Kyauk Pa Kaw Par Hta 28 67 72 12 18 169 2 Kyauk Pa Kyuak Pa 20 53 52 9 10 124 3 Kyauk Pa Ta Po Khi 38 105 91 14 13 223 4 Hsaw Tay Der Hsaw Tay Der 25 80 66 9 8 163 5 Yaw Khi Yaw Khi 32 90 89 21 19 219 6 Thet Baw Der Thet Baw Der 33 82 81 14 17 194 7 Thet Baw Der Ka Waw Kho 43 124 116 8 7 255 8 Thet Baw Der Play Khi 30 92 114 20 15 241 9 Thet Baw Der Play Pa 32 92 111 12 116 231 281 785 792 119 123 1,819
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 251
Report Number CIDKP-2004-07
Date Submitted: 1 April 2004
Location: Village tracts below
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Ka Mu Loe Yu Loe Maw Ker Tha Per Kho
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 5 275 1,921
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-20, LIB-264 Infantry Battalions Other DKBA
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 252
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 253
CIDKP-2004-7 ERA Request Summary 1 April 2004
Demographics:
1,921 people (275 HH), 5 villages, Pegu Division, Nyuanglebin District, Mone Township. KNU: Ka Mu Loe, Yu Loe, and Maw Ker Tha Per Kho village tracts of Mu Township (Kler Lwee Htoo District). 145 boys and 138 girls < 5 as well as 822 males and 816 females > 5
Background:
Prior to 1974-1975 under KNU control. This changed after Four Cuts operations began. Many villages, orchards, etc. destroyed during this period, but the area remained under KNU administration. Since 1997 Scorched Earth campaign began, the area targeted every year.
Rationale:
Between mid-November 2003 – beginning January 2004 SPDC patrols have been conducting search and destroy missions, including IDP hiding settlements. 13 paddy fields directly destroyed and an unspecified number indirectly due to flight (weather, animals, etc.). 23 tins of harvested rice in Maw Ker Tha Pho seized. 19 paddy fields directly destroyed, 23 shelters burnt down, and unspecified amount of paddy ruined while Yu Loe villagers in hiding.16 paddy fields directly destroyed, 14 shelters burnt down, and unspecified amount of paddy ruined while Ka Mu Loe villagers in hiding.
SPDC established new outpost within 1-2 hours walk of the hiding sites, resulting in longer-term displacement in 2 of the village tracts. Estimated that only 20% of the rice cultivated in these areas during 2003 harvested still kept by the beginning of 2004 [i.e. 80% loss].
Current Situation:
Yu Loe, Ka Mu Loe, and Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Village Tracts located in conflict zone. Most of the villagers live in hiding sites and flee to more remote areas as circumstances dictate. “The SPDC troops classifies villagers living outside of its control as supporters of the Karen resistance and regard as enemies of the state. When the SPDC troops find a hiding site, it is common to shoot anyone on sight and to destroy everything.”
7/7/2004 LIB-20 troops and DKBA troops led by Column Commander Mya Win entered and carried out search and destroy operations in Yu Loe and Ka Mu Loe Village Tracts for 5 days.
17/7/2004 LIB-20 and LIB-264 combined troops (about 50 soldiers), led by Column Commander Thin Toe Za, entered the Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Village Tract and conducted operations there for one week.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 254
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tracts Village Households M F M F Total 5 < < 5 > 5 > 5 Ka Mu Loe Ka Mu Loe 43 18 36 136 124 314 Yu Loe Yu Loe 85 41 31 276 265 613 Maw Keh Tha Per Maw Keh Tha Per 60 36 32 162 178 408 Kho Kho Maw Ko Maw Keh Tha Per 61 35 28 175 168 406 Kho Ter Kwe Lay Kho Maw Keh Tha Per 27 16 12 75 82 185 Kho 276 146 139 824 817 1,926
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 255
Report Number CIDKP-2004-12
Date Submitted: 4 August 2004
Location: Ko Ni Village, near Mone Town, Noe Nya Lar Relocation Camp
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Ler Doh
Zone: White
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 1 152 1,521
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 256
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 257
CIDKP-2004-12 ERA Request Summary 4 August 2004
Demographics:
1,521 people (152 HH) from Ko Ni Village (a short distance south of Mone). KNU: Ler Doh Township in Nyaunglebin District. (Now reside in Noe Nya Lar relocation camp in Mone Township). 73 boys and 86 girls < 5 and 547 females and 445 males > 5.
Rationale:
Villagers relocated 3X to different locations since 2000, most recently in February 2004 when forced to destroy their own homes while troops killed their animals. One woman was killed and others beaten during the forced eviction. 2000 relocated to Yan Myo Aung beside a military camp 2/2001 relocated one hour’s walk from above site. 2/2004 LIB-599, led by BC Major Win Htway, forces them to Noe Nya Lar.
Villages not permitted to cultivate fields or tend orchards and gardens.
10/2/2004 LIB-599, led by BC Major Win Htway, enters Ko Ni and forces them to destroy their homes. Seven people beaten and 7 wounded. One, Saw Wee Hla, died of a broken skull.
4/2004 local SPDC authorities extorted 250,000 kyat from the villagers, and then ordered them to build a fence around the garrison.
5/2004 Troops [unspecified] opened fire on villagers as they were returning from collective wild fruits and nuts. One man (age 24) killed.
5/2004 Troops institute travel restrictions that limit their ability to gather food from the forest. Villagers now required to buy a travel pass (1,000 kyat – good for 1 month) if they want to leave Noe Nya Lar.
30/5/2004 LIB-599, led by Sergeant Ni Ni [2nd BC?], opened fire on people returning from the forest near Noe Nya Lar. Saw Has Gro (age 24) killed. Two others, Naw Pi Pi and Naw Mu Shee, were arrested, beaten at Kyoen Bin Sit military camp, and ransomed for 100,000 kyat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 258
Report Number KORD-2005-03
Date Submitted: 18 April 2005
Location: East of Mone – Thandaung Rd., north of Kyaukgyi – Mu They – Saw Hta Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Mu Thet Baw Der Saw Tay Der Kheh Po Der Yaw Khee
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 8 197 1,389
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions IB-73 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-204, LIB-246, LIB-264, LIB-351, LIB-504, LIB- 531, LIB-590, LIB-599, LIB-789 Infantry Battalions IB-33, IB-60, IB-73, IB-116 Other Military Strategic Command 2
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 259
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 260
KORD-2005-03 ERA Request Summary 18 April 2005
Demographics:
1,389 people (197 HH) from 8 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division. (KNU: Thet Baw Der, Saw Tay Der, Kheh Po Der, and Yaw Khee Village Tracts of Moo Township, Kler Lwi Htoo District.)
Located east of the Mone – Thandaung District Road, north of the Kyaukgyi - Mu Theh - Saw Hta Road. [Far-eastern corner, directly adjacent to the southeast corner of Taw Oo District].
Most villagers flee whenever SPDC patrols enter the area.
Rationale:
Between January and April 2005 LIB-599, LIB-590, and IB-73 patrols committed the following acts:
3,000 tins of rice burnt, more than 100 betel nut, cardamom, dog fruit, and durian [cash-crops used to purchase rice] cut down, representing over 3 months of food supplies for the affected populations.
Troops conscripted 400 bullock carts and porters from Ta Khaw Pwa Village in March and April to transport food supplies to the Kaw La Wah Lu camp.
Lowland populations forced to construct and to repair LIB-590’s camp and perimeter fence.
2 new company garrisons established in the area, enabling roving patrols into upland areas, displacing populations for 3 months, during which food supplies were destroyed.
New landmines were laid in the area. At least one village lost his legs.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 261
ERA Request
General description:
8 villages in four village tracts affected (Thet Baw Der, Saw Tay Der, Kheh Po Der, and Yah Khee).
Period:
Beginning of January 2005 through end of March 2005.
Military Units Identified:
LIB-599, led by BC Win Htay and 2nd BC Yan Naing Soe (based in Inn To Inn Shin Camp)
LIB-590, led by BC Ko Ko Oo and 2nd BC Nyein Charn (based in Ye Oh Sin camp)
IB-73, led by BC Htun Minn and [unspecified] militia group (based in Tha Pye Nyunt camp)
Description:
1 January Saw [Name Redacted] of Ma La Daw Village stepped on a landmine laid by LIB-590 soldiers and lost his legs. “Since then the high officers of the SPDC in the area instructed the troops in the base camps and frontline outposts to repair their camps and outposts and its fences. At the same time troops were instructed to make stronger operation in the area.”
[No date] Two columns from LIB-590 began patrols in lowland and midland areas. Forced labor to repair camps, extortion, and the loss of property reported. Troops reportedly evicted 8 households in Myaw Oo and Htee To Lo Villages and “built a place for the military.”
[No date] Two columns from LIB-599, led by BC Win Htway and 2nd BC Yan Naing Oo, began search-and-destroy operations in highland areas of Thet Baw Der, Saw Tay Der, Kheh Po Der, and Yaw Khee Village Tracts forcing Total to flee in multiple directions.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 262
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Thet Baw Der Ka Waw Kho 39 290 2 Thet Baw Der Play Khee 23 227 3 Thet Baw Der Play Pa 22 166 4 Thet Baw Der Thet Baw Der 26 179 5 Saw Tay Der Saw Tay Der 11 55 6 Saw Tay Der Play Khee 41 235 7 Khe Po Der Kheh Po Der 15 103 8 Yaw Khee Yaw Khee 20 134 9 Yaw Khee Ka Mu Lo 52 295 10 Yaw Khee Yu Lo 65 353 314 2,037
Total in Urgent Need of Food
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Thet Baw Der Ka Waw Kho 39 290 2 Thet Baw Der Play Khee 23 227 3 Thet Baw Der Play Pa 22 166 4 Thet Baw Der Thet Baw Der 26 179 5 Saw Tay Der Saw Tay Der 11 55 6 Saw Tay Der Play Khee 41 235 7 Kheh Po Der Kheh Po Der 15 103 8 Yaw Der Yaw Khee 20 134 197 1,389
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 263
ERA Distribution Summary 29 August 2005
Demographics:
Assistance provided to 1,389 people (197 HH) from 8 villages. 947 children < 10 (474 boys and 473 girls), 232 males and 210 females > 10
Livelihood Summary (p. 1)
Forced labor, extortion, and travel restrictions widespread in lowland areas where practice wet- paddy production. Many villagers are fleeing into upland areas as a result. So too are Shan, Burmans, and Indians living in the area.
Food production in upland areas is diverse: some animal husbandry plus chilis, pumpkins, long beans, gourds, etc. However, harvests are inadequate, so many people also work as day laborers (500 kyat/day) or travelling peddlers. Trips to markets to purchase rice (normally 3-4 times/month) require a half-day or full-day walk.
Market price: lowest quality 3,500-4,000/tin while better quality is 5,000/tin.
ERA will help them pay back debts
SPDC United Identified
No. 2 Military Strategy Commander Khin Maung Soe oversees:
IB-60, led by BC Win Bo Shein and 2nd BC Khin Maung Lwin), based in Than Bo (Wai Ler Doh).
IB-73, led by BC Tun Min combined with militia (people’s army), led by officer Thein Tun, based in Tha Bye Nyunt.
LIB-531, led by BC Tint Hswe and 2nd BC Aung Naing Soe, based in Sis Hsay Gone.
LIB-599, led by BC Myint Htein, based in Inn To Inn Shay (or) Tone Daw. LIB-599, led by 2nd BC Yan Naing Soe, based in Ma La Daw. LIB-599, led by Capt. Myint Htay, patrols lowland areas. LIB-590, led by BC Ko Ko Gyi and 2nd BC Nyein Chan, based in Ye Oh Zin. Sergeant Inn Tun, based in Myaung Oo (front line military camp). Warrant Officer Khin Maung Than, based in Mee Taing Daw. Warrant Officer Myint Than, based in Htee To Lo. Capt. Hla Myint Zaw, based in Kaw Lar Lu, patrols midland areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 264
SPDC Operations Since ERA Request
15/3/2005 LIB-204 Column 2 replaced LIB-599 at That Bye Nyunt camp. LIB-204 Column 1 replaced LIB-599 troops at Kaw Lar Wah Lu.
22/3/2005 Two combined columns from LIB-599 and LIB-590 forcibly requisitioned 244 bullock carts from midland villages to transport military rations to Kaw Lar Wah Lu.
24/32005 Strategic Commander [presumably Khin Maung Soe] with LIB-590 and LIB-504 (approximately 400 troops) arrived in Maw Lay Village and “organized a public festival, but we don’t know about their aim to do this.”
28/3/2005 LIB-351, led by Yeh Win, with 20 soldiers, entered Thit Cha Seik and arrested three elderly villagers: 1) U Lu Pu; 2) Than Sein; and 3) Ma Wai Htoo and immediately sent them to military strategy camp.
31/3/05 LIB-351 entered Oo Chit Kein at 2 am and arrested 6 village elders and sent them to the police station: 1) Myint Win; 2) Kyaw Naing Win; 3) Tun Myint; 4) Thein Hlaing; 5) Kyaw Moe Lwin; and 6) Nga Soe.
31/3/05 IB-116 Column 1, led by Hla Thein Shwe of Division 33, with approximately 120 soldiers entered Moo Township and engaged with local KNU troops at Ta Hoe Kwee.
1/4/05 Continuous fighting occurred in different places around Pa Na Gu Khee Kwee, Kli Sa Hta (at noon) and Ba Mae Lay (at 2 pm).
3/4/05 LIB-351, lead by Yeh Win, entered Oo Chit Khin Village and arrested a villager, Soe Nyunt, and immediately sent him to Military Strategy base camp and has yet to release him.
2/4/05 IB-116 Column 1 enters Ler Klah Village Tract and engages with KNU troops twice in the Pa Hi Soe Kho area.
3/4/05 Continuous fighting: Kay Khaw Hti (10 am), Maw Khee (2 pm), Wa May Bwa (Maw Per Kho Traw) (3 pm), and Naw Beh Day Kho (5 pm).
4/4/05 Fighting in Pa New Soe (7 am) and Pway Soe Kho (7:30 am).
18/5/05 LIB-264, IB-33, and DKBA troops combine at Maw Lay and Kyauk Pya Villages, then divided into 3 columns, each of which had approximately 80 soldiers. The columns depart to conduct search-and-destroy operations: Column 1 travelled to Htee Yar Khee Village. Column 2 travelled to Pyi Pyeh Village and Kyauk Chin Thit. Column 3 travelled to the abandoned village of Htee Ler Baw Hta.
22/5/05 DKBA troops ordered [by whom not specified] to leave their current camps in Maw Lay and Kyauk Pya, and return to central headquarters in Myaing Gyi Ngu. LIB-246 replaced them.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 265
22/5/05 LIB-590 engaged with local KNU troops in Ka Haw Hta near Ma La Daw Village.
25/5/05 SPDC Strategic Commander [not named] ordered villagers working in Htee Ywa and Noh Kho Hti [relocation sites?] to return to their former villages.
27/5/05 DKBA troops entered Maw Lay and Kyauk Pya and forced the village headman to provide rice for their soldiers (150 baskets of rice from each village in the village tract). They also extorted 450,000 kyat from village tract residents, and they “warned them to keep silent.”
28/5/05 LIB-246 replaced DKBA troops in Maw Lay and Kyauk Pya, who returned to Ler Doh town.
7/6/05 LIB-789 arrives in Kaw Lar Wah Lu (with approximately 200 troops) to patrol Moo Township.
12/6/05 “The SPDC now asked 10 soldiers from each battalion to establish guerrilla forces to use them for special movement in the front line areas and at the same time they forcibly asked the villagers to build three guard houses between Maw Lay and Kyauk Pya Villages.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 266
Report Number KORD-2006-08
Date Submitted: 5 July 2006
Location: Close to southern Toungoo District
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Mu Kheh Po Der Thae Baw Der Kyauk Pya Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Ka Mu Lo YuLo
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 15 516 3,484
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-10 Light Infantry Division LID-33 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-240, LIB-522, LIB-576, LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-33 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-240, LIB-345, LIB-351, LIB-353, LIB-438, LIB- 522, LIB-531, LIB-536, LIB-590, LIB-599, LIB-607 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 267
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 268
KORD-2006-08 ERA Summary 5 July 2006
Demographics
3,484 people (516 households) from 15 villages in northern Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division. KNU: Mone Township, Kler Lwi Htu District (adjacent to southern Taw Oo)
Village tracts affected: Kheh Po Der, Thae Baw Der, Kyauk Pya, Maw Keh Tha Per Kho, Ka Mu Lo, and Yu Lo. The first four village tracts are hiding areas, while the last three are mixed administration areas.
Rationale:
Hiding Areas
Between March and 5 May 5 battalions (approximately 500 men) under Division 33 and OCH- 10 have been active patrolling the northern part of the township. Patrols destroyed and/or confiscated almost all of the food resources (paddy, gardens, animals) and household materials.
Troops [unspecified] shot and killed 9 people, including 1 porter. Another person was wounded but escaped east into the forest towards the Papun Township border. Total depend heavily on villagers in Papun Township for food. Some Total able to obtain food through contacts in lowland areas.
Between January and May SPDC troops killed 17 and wounded five people, burnt a total of 90 houses in 7 villages as well as 19 paddy barns, 5,000 baskets of paddy, 200 baskets of rice. Troops looted 70 chickens, 23 pigs, and 15 cattle. The losses are equivalent to a 3-month supply of food for 1,000 people.
Mixed Administration Areas
Between 29 March and 3 April, 2 columns of troops from LIB-599 and LIB-590, under the command of Division 33, relayed orders prohibiting travel outside of the villages in the following village tracts: Maw Keh Tha Per Kho, Yu Lo, and Ka Mu Low. Orders first enforced on 3 April when soldiers shot 2 men while they were fishing outside of their village. The travel restriction remained in force until mid-May when the troops returned to Toungoo.
Villagers in area had previously relocated from surrounding areas [concentrate dispersed populations]. Undocumented reports of forced labor and portering to support patrols in upland areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 269
ERA Request 18 June 2006
Location:
7 village tracts: Kheh Po Der, Thae Baw Der, Kyauk Pya, Saw Tay Der, Maw Keh Tha Per Kho, Ka Mu Lo, Yu Lon in Mone Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.
Period:
15 March – 13 May 2006
Military Units and Commanders Identified
Light Infantry Division 33 LIB-599 LIB-590
MOC-10 LIB-576 LIB-522 LIB-240
Military Operations
Highland area, hillside paddy cultivation, and gardens (betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and cardamom). Some of the population lives in hiding areas, whereas others live in mixed administration areas.
Hiding areas: Saw Tay Der, Kheh Po Der, Thae Baw Der, Kyauk Pya Village Tracts. “People do not face with the SPDC as they are regarded as the enemy of the SPDC by the SPDC. They will be killed if they were found, and their belonging being destroyed or taken away at anytime found by the SPDC.”
Mixed Administration areas: Maw Kheh Tha Per Kho, Yu Lo, Ka Mu village tracts. “Villagers were easily tortured and forced to work and to move from place to place [relocations] as the SPDC want.”
15 March LIB-599, led by Yeh Naing with 150 soldiers, left Tha Pyin Nyunt and Myaung Oo camps and entered Kheh Po Der, Saw Tay Der, Yu Lo, Ka Mu Lo Village Tracts and stationed troops in Saw Tay Der, Yu Lo, Ka Mu Lo, Yaw Khee, Khe Po Der Villages. Villagers fled to the jungle along Mu Traw District border (Karen State). Patrols lasted 10 days and then the troops moved to Ma La Daw and Ter Kweh Lay Kho camps for a short rest. During the patrols, troops destroyed all paddy, rice, plants in gardens and orchards, and household materials.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 270
20 March Combined troops from LIB-522, LIB-240, and LIB 576 (approximately 300 soldiers) entered Htee Ler Baw Hta and Kwee Di Khaw Village Tracts and conducted patrols for 2 days.
23 March these troops divided themselves into three groups. One group patrolled Htee Ler Baw Hta and Kwee Di Khaw Village Tracts. During the patrols soldiers from this group shot at Nya Mu Hta [not clear whether wounded or killed]. The other two groups patrolled Kyauk Pa and Thae Baw Der Village Tracts. These troops shot and killed Saw Maung Kha in the Maw Li Lu area. These two groups then “spread out” to patrol Ka Pa Hta, Kyauk Pya, Ka Waw Kho, Thae Baw Der, Phlay Khee, Phlay Pa, To Pho Khee for the next ten days. “The mainly waited and check in the places where villagers have the cultivation” [to ambush them?]. Troops shot and killed Naw Bi Bay Phaw and wounded her granddaughter, Naw Ywa Eh Phaw. That same day, troops also shot and killed Saw Pho Hseh Pyah and Saw Ko Ro [units and location not specified]. They conduct search-and-destroy mission (as above) during this period. These two groups then move to Kaw La Wah Lu camp, rested briefly, and moved to midland areas to collect rations.
29 March Combined troops from LIB-599 and LIB-590 formed 2 columns. “These troops shot at two Maw La Daw villagers in their betel nut garden,” after which they returned to Maw La Daw camp, collected rations, and left to patrol Maw Keh Tha Per Kho, a midland area. “There they made an order said that no villagers can go outside the village and they will be killed if found outside the village which is in the area along the car road.” Order given to resides of Maw Keh Tha Per Kho, Yu Lo, and Ka Mu Lo Villages that are in close proximity to the road. Troops forced villagers to repair the road and to porter supplies. “Some of the husbands dare not face with the SPDC and family members have to separate.”
30 March LIB-599 and LIB-590 troops sent rations to Tha Pyin Nyunt using 16 trucks. They also “ordered” 100 carts to transport rations to Maw La Daw camp.
3 April LIB-599 and LIB-590 troops arrived in Yu Lo and Ka Mu Lo and shot 2 villagers, Saw Nah Doh and Saw Maung Aye, while they were fishing [in violation of the above order]. Troops then conducted search-and-destroy missions [primarily focusing on gardens which provide villagers with cash to purchase rice] in the following villages: Maw Khe Tha Per Kho, Ter Kweh Lay Kho, Yu Lo, Ka Mu Lo, Yaw Khee, Kheh Po Der, Thae Baw Der, and Saw Tay Der.
26 April Column 1 [combined troops from both LIB] entered Ter Kweh Lay Kho, “shot at a porter and took out his two eyes.” Column 2 entered Yu Lo and Ka Mu Lo that same days and shot at villagers; they also destroyed betel nut and durian trees and looted 15 cattle, which they took back to Tha Pyin Nyunt camp.
1 May LIB-576, LIB-522, and LIB-240, after resting briefly at Kaw Law Wah Lu, began patrols in Saw Kha Der, Ler Klah, Htee Ler Baw Hta Village Tracts. The patrols were ongoing through the ERA request date (5 July).
2 May Column 2 returned to Ter Kweh Lay Kho and shot at Saw Pho Hset, from this village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 271
13 May Column 2 entered Saw Tay Der, Kyauk Pya, and Thae Baw Der villages, shot at villagers at Kaw Waw Kho, and destroyed paddy, rice, and household materials. These troops patrolled the area from about one week and then travelled through Yu Lo, Ka Mu Lo, and Yaw Khee en route to Taw Oo District.
Between January and the date of the needs assessment [not given], troops killed 17 villagers and wounded 5, burnt 90 houses and 19 paddy barns in 7 seven villages. 500 baskets of paddy, 200 baskets of rice, and 27 betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and cardamom gardens destroyed. 70 chickens and 23 pigs looted.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kheh Po Der Kheh Po Der 15 105 2 Kheh Po Der Phlay Khee 41 245 3 Thae Baw Der Ka Waw Kho 40 299 4 Thae Baw Der Thae Baw Der 22 176 5 Thae Baw Der Phlay Khee 24 236 6 Thae Baw Der Play Pa 21 163 7 Kyauk Pya Ka Pa Hta 16 122 8 Kyauk Pya Kyauk Pya 17 119 9 Kyauk Pya Kaw Pho Khee 28 164 10 Saw Tay Der Saw Tay Der 11 56 11 Saw Thay Der Ter Kweh Lay Kho 23 141 12 Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Maw Khe Tha Per Kho 132 770 13 Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Yaw Khee 20 134 14 Ka Mu Lo Ka Mu Lo 34 234 15 Yu Lo Yu Lo 72 520 16 Kwee Di Khaw Saw Kher Khee 19 128 17 Kwee Di Khaw Nya Mu Khee 20 122 555 3,734
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 272
ERA Distribution Summary 1 November 2006
Current Situation:
Price 1 tin of rice rose from 7,500 kyat (time of request) to 9,000 kyat (time of distribution). Villagers only able to purchase rice in a place called Kwee Tu Khaw by secret arrangement between highland and lowland populations, typically only 2 times per week.
Ongoing SPDC patrols prevented villagers from harvesting crops. 26 hillside paddy fields destroyed. SPDC troops stationed at outposts and can most of the fields in the vicinity.
Between April and September villagers had to flee 4-5 times.
Between June and September at least 3 people shot and killed, more than 100 houses burnt or destroyed, domestic animals looted and/or eaten, extorted more than 1,000,000 kyat, requisitioned bullock carts, forced villagers to serve as porters and to fence villages, fired mortars into hiding areas.
April n.d. General Khin Soe orders 7 villages to relocate to a sub-town between Hteik Htu and Thu Ka Ba stating that gold mining operations will begin there enabling them to work there. LIB-438 commander, Myint Thein Aung, extorted 15,000 kyat from every household, allegedly to compensate people already there. The total amount collected: 7,275,000 kyat from 485 households in 7 villages. Mying Thein Aung, after collecting the money, moved to another area taking the money with him.
Camp Locations
1) Tha Phay Nyunt 2) Hsaw Wa Der 3) Ma La Daw 4) Wee Li Soe 5) Pan Kan Kweh Doung 6) Ta Thwa Kho 7) Shan Ywa 8) Mi Tan Daw 9) Myaung Oo 10) Htee To Lo 11) Ye O Zin – LIB-590 12) Kaw Law Wah Lu 13) Taung Ko Lone 14) Aung Laung Sein 15) Htone Daw – LIB-599 16) Kjun Bin Seik Tha Htay Gone 17) Kyaung Pyan 18) Maw Lay
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 273
19) Ta Ler Dae 20) Htee Klei Lo Klo 21) Than Bo – IB-60 22) Tha Phay Gone – LIB-351 23) Hsaw Mi Lu 24) Ko Pla Lay Kho 25) Mu That Monastery 26) Ka Baw Soe 27) Ler Taw Tha
Commanders Identified:
OCH-16: Commander General That Oo Military Southern Command: Major General Ko Ko LIB-599: BC Aung Ko Oo LIB-590: n/a IB-60: n/a LIB-351: n/a Military Strategy Commander: Kyi Soe based at Ma La Daw Myaung Oo camp: Hla Myo Oo (in charge) Mi Tan Daw camp: Pho Hsaung (in charge)
SPDC Operations Since ERA Request
7/6/06 LIB-240 and LIB-522, under OCH-16, based at Ma La Daw, forced 10 households in Ta Kweh Lay Kho Village to move to Ma La Daw and Upper Ma La Daw Village. LIB-240 and LIB-522 troops also forced villagers to clear the road from Ma La Da to Tha Phay Nyunt.
7/5/06 LIB-599 BC and his section officer, Ye Min, based at the Kyun Bin Seik military camp, extorted 3 baskets of (Kauk Kyi) rice, 6 baskets of (Kauk Ngel) rice, and 2 bottles of cooking oil from Noh Nya La village.
15/6/06 LIB-599 extorted money from the owners of 93 paddy huts (3,000 kyat/hut) in Naung Bo Village Tract. LIB-599 troops also requisitioned 200 bullock carts from Htaw Tha Wa, Tha Phya Nyunt, and Nyung Bin Thar Village Tracts.
23/6/06 LIB-536 and LIB-351, under OCH-15, gathered at Mu Thet and departed from Kheh Der Kho. The following day, the combined troops entered Saw Kha Der Village Tract and burned the village there. 3 pm that afternoon, troops shot at Saw Wee Moo but missed. The troops remained in the Saw Kha Der Village Tract from 3 days, during which they ate 7 pigs and 30 chickens. They returned to Mu That military camp on the 28th.
23/6/06 LIB-522 (approximately 100 soldiers) left Ma La Daw camp carrying landmines, entered Ka Pa Hta Village the following day, and arrested Naw Kwee Kwee and Saw Bi Au. Troops killed Saw Bi Au. They then left from Ta Law Plo and Thi Mi Baw Villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 274
26/6/06 LIB-522 troops fired mortars into IDP hiding places.
27/6/06 LIB-522 went to Thae Baw Der Village Tract, Ka Waw Kho the next day, Saw Tay Der the following one, and returned to Ma La Daw camp on the 30th.
11/7/06 LIB-522 left Ma La Daw travelled to Saw Tay Der Village and destroyed Saw Lu Hseh’s house, taking 3 baskets of rice and 2 cooking pots.
27/7/06 LIB-607, under OCH-16, with approximately 50 men, entered Kyauk Tan. The following day these troops burned 16 paddy huts and filled in their water wells. IB-493 troops blocked villagers’ access to their working sites [while this was occurring?].
7/8/06 Division-33, with 19 bullock carts, arrived at IB-60 base. The following days troops arrived at Maw Lay Kho and another in Mu Thet Village “targeted to clean Mone Township area.”
7/8/06 LIB-590, led by Aung Tun Oo, with approximately 20 soldiers, entered Lu Ah village and arrested 5 people: 1) Saw Pho Tha Htoo; 2) Saw Kyaw Htoo; 3) Saw Lay Doh; 4) Saw Tha Ya Gone; 5) Saw Tun Naing Oo. Troops also entered Pho Thaung Suu Village and extorted 1,000,000 kyat. Two villagers, Saw Pho Tha Htoo and Saw Kyaw Htoo, were sent to Taw Oo Town.
9/8/06 Combined troops from LIB-345 and LIB-353, under OCH-15, with about 200 soldiers, left Mu Thet for the Saw Kha Der area and patrolled the area around Bway Kho Lu Village until 12/8/06.
10-11/8/06 Troops [not specified] under OCH-16, based in Phlay Hsa Lo and Ma Law Daw, left and entered Yu Lo and Ka Mu Lo Villages, and forced residents to relocate on the 11th. Troops burnt 3 houses and destroyed 32 more [pulled down?]. The troops then destroyed the bridge (known as Kaung Kin Tha Tar) on Ka Mu Lo and Yu Lo rivers [unclear].
22/8/06 LIB-599 instructed villagers in Ta Khaw Pwa Village Tract to build double fences around their villages.
24/8/06 Division 66 troops, led by Than Oo, shot and killed Saw Mae Lone (22 years old) of Taw Pu Village.
26/8/06 Division Commander, Ko Ko, instructed his front line soldiers to force villagers to build double-fences around their own villages.
15/9/06 LIB-599 forced 28 people from each village in Mi Tan Daw Village Tract to porter military rations.
18/9/06 LIB93, led by Thein Htay, arrested Saw Wah Shi of Ma La Daw Village, tortured and then killed him.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 275
18/9/06 OCH-16 commander, That Oo, instructed LIB-599 commander, Aung Ko Oo, to send rations to Kaw Lar Wah Lu camp. He requisitioned 27 bullock carts and 280 people from Mone town, 16 bullock carts and 157 people from Mi Tan Daw, 11 bullock carts and 112 people from Myo Yo Gyi, 6 bullock carts and 77 people from Kjun Daw, 6 bullock carts and 60 people from Moe Tway, 21 bullock carts and 226 people from Nyung Bin Thar, 11 bullock carts and 120 people from Ta Khaw Pwa, 6 bullock carts and 27 people from Gone Ni to porter supplies.
SPDC troops reportedly established 2 more camps at Saw Tay Der and Ka Pa Hta Villages. Preparations under way to begin logging in the Ta Kweh Lay Kho region.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 276
Report Number KORD-2006-16
Date Submitted: 25 October 2006
Location: East of Mone, west of Yunzalin River, and north of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Mu Kwee Di Khaw Ler Klah Saw Kha Der Htee Ler Baw HTa
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 21 628 3,794
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-15, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-345, LIB-351, LIB-353, LIB-507, LIB-522, LIB- 536, LIB-568, LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions IB-68, IB-240, IB-241 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-96, LIB-241, LIB-242, LIB-323, LIB-507, LIB- 522, LIB-569 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 277
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 278
KORD-2006-16 ERA Request Summary 25 October 2006
Demographics:
3,794 people (628 households) from 21 villages in Mone Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Kler Lwi Htoo District, Mone Township)
East of Mone town, west of Yunzalin River, and north of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road. Hillside cultivation, and gardens (betel-nut, durian, dog fruit), and some day labor
Black area: villagers typically flee whenever SPDC troops patrol.
Rationale:
LIB-522, LIB-568, LIB-507 and IB0-240, IB-241, IB-68 of OCH-16 & LIB-345, LIB-353, LIB- 536, and LIB-351 of OCH-15 & LIB-599 and LIB-590 of SCH have been patrolling area since 23 June to date.
Reports of indiscriminate shooting of civilians, mortar attacks on areas where Total thought to be hiding, and widespread use of landmines where villagers travel.
“The transportation of military supplies used 107 bullock carts and 1,067 people from lowland and villagers along the route have fled into the jungle since SPDC troops patrolled along.”
2 villagers (1 male and 1 female) arrested on 24 June. Combined troops from LIB-522 and LIB- 528 killed the man and took the female to their basecamp. On 1 October, LIB-522 troops shot and killed a woman (48 years of age).
Ongoing SPDC patrols have prevented Total from accessing hidden caches of paddy and other food sources. 3,240 baskets of paddy, 380 baskets of rice, 34 pigs, and 185 chickens lost.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 279
ERA Request
Location:
- Kwee Di Khaw, Ler Klah, Saw Kha Der, and Htee Ler Baw Hta village tracts in Mone Township of Kler Lwi Htu District (see maps)
Period Covered:
23 June 2006 – 25 October 2006
Military Units Identified:
- OCH-16: LIB-522, LIB-568, LIB-507, IB-240, IB-241, IB-60 - OCH-15: LIB-345, LIB-353, LIB-536, LIB-351 - SCH (under OCH?): LIB-599, LIB-590
Military Operations:
23/6/Troops from LIB-536 and LIB-351 (OCH-15) left Mu Thae camp and headed towards Kheh Ka Kho.
24/6 The above troops entered Saw Kha Der and Ler Klah Village Tracts, where the following villages are located: Klaw Khee, Thay Nweh Khee, Saw Kha Der, Ler Klah, Ta Waw Pu, Ler Htaw Der, Htee Kho, Saw Khee, Mee Ya Htah, and Mu Lu Kho. “There they shot at villagers as they found, but fortunately no one got shot.” Patrols lasted five days.
28/6 The above troops returned to Mu Thae camp.
26/6 IB-241, IB-240, and IB-69 (OCH-16) begin patrols in Htee Ler Baw Hta and Ler Klah Village Tracts, where the following villagers are located: Ler Klah, Ta Wa Pu, Ler Htaw Der, Htee Kho, Saw Khee, Mee Ya Htah, Ma Lu Kho, Thay Khay Lu, Ter Mu Khee, Nwah Htee, Nwah Hta, and Wa Tho Kho. They patrolled the area until 1 July.
23/6 LIB-522 and LIB-568 troops combined to carry out joint operations (approximately 100 soldiers).
24/6 these troops entered Kha Pa Hta “with a lot of landmines” and arrested 2 villagers (Naw Kwee Kwee and Saw Bi Or). “Then they killed the man and took the woman to Ko Ni, which is the lowland area.” Patrols continued in the areas around Saw Kher Khee, Nya Mu Khee, Tae Na Hta, Gi Blay Hta, Ler Wah Lu, and Naw Lay Kho Villages in Khwee Di Khaw Village Tract.
26/6 troops shell mortars into areas where Total are fleeing and lay landmines along the paths they commonly use to travel.
28/6 The above troops move to Thae Baw Der.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 280
29/6 The above troops move to Saw Thay Der.
30/6 The above troops return to Ma La Daw.
11/7 These same troops enter the Wah Khee and later move to Kwee Di Kho Village Tract where they conducted continuous patrols until 2 August.
9/8 LIB-345 and LIB-533 (OCH-15) combined troops (200 soldiers) left to conduct operations in Mu Thae area.
10/8 these troops arrive in Saw Kha Der Village Tract and patrol the area for one week.
16/8 August these troops return to Mu Thae camp.
13/8 LIB-507 troops from Maw Lay and Kyauk Lya traveled to Htee Ler Baw Hta Village Tract and established a new base between Ler Taw Tha and Maw Pha Leh, which is close to villagers’ paddy fields and gardens. Villagers from Thay Khay Lu, Ter Mu Khee, Nwah Khee, Nwah Hta, and Wa Tho Kho flee as a result.
26/8 LIB-599 and LIB-590 combined troops leave Kyauk Pya and Maw Lay and enter the Ler Klah Village Tract to conduct patrols around the following villages: Ler Klah, Ta Waw Pu, Ler Htaw Der, Htee Kho, Saw Khee, Mee Ya Htah, and Maw Lu Kho. Villagers flee.
31/8 troops return to Kaw La Wah Lu.
9/9 OCH-15 instructs LIB-599 to transport rations to Kaw La Wah Lu camp. LIB-599 orders villagers from lowland areas to provide bullock carts (107 total) and labor (1,607 people total) to complete the task. They do so on 16 September. LIB-599 troops patrol the Kwee Di Kha Village Tract to provide security and villagers again flee.
28/9 [unspecified] troops leave Paw Khay Kho and patrol the Mu Traw District. 1 October, these troops enter the Saw Kha Der Village Tract and conduct patrols. 8 October these troops return to Mu Thae camp.
1/10 LIB-522 troops (OCH-16) enter the Thae Baw Der Village Tract and shot Saw Eh Blu (age 48) from Thae Baw Der Village. “He died at once.” These troops then patrolled Kwee Di Khaw Village Tract until 5 October. Villagers go into hiding.
Impact: Total are known to have lost 3,240 baskets of paddy, 380 baskets of rice, 34 pigs, and 185 chickens.
Most of the Total from Kwee Di Khaw Village Tract move to Traw Lo valley. Most of the Total from Htee Ler Baw Hta and Ler Klah Village Tracts move to Saw Khee. Most of the Total from Saw Kha Der Village Tract moved to Ta Pway Lay Kho. Some remained in hiding whereas others went to other villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 281
Total are eating “soft rice” and those with money can purchase food from Mu Thae and Kwee Di Khaw.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kwee Di Khaw Saw Kher Khee 14 104 2 Kwee Di Khaw Nya Mu Khee 19 115 3 Kwee Di Khaw Tae Na Hta 18 75 4 Kwee Di Khaw Gi Blay Hta 16 97 5 Kwee Di Khaw Ler Wah Lu 11 65 6 Kwee Di Khaw Nwah Law Kho 72 427 7 Ler Klah Ler Klah 12 73 8 Ler Klah Ta Waw Pu 22 134 9 Ler Klah Ler Htaw Der 42 218 10 Ler Klah Htee Kho 46 240 11 Ler Klah Saw Khee 39 202 12 Ler Klah Mee Ya Htah 39 198 13 Ler Klah Maw Lu Kho 31 187 14 Saw Kha Der Thay Nweh Khee 34 240 15 Saw Kha Der Klaw Khee 35 246 16 Saw Kha Der Saw Kha Der 30 210 17 Htee Ler Baw Hta Thay Khay Lu 24 127 18 Htee Ler Baw Hta Ter Mu Khee 22 150 19 Htee Ler Baw Hta Nwah Khee 18 117 20 Htee Ler Baw Hta Nawah Hta 61 390 21 Htee Ler Baw Hta Wa Tho Kho 23 179 628 3,794
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 282
KORD-2006-16 Distribution Summary 17 April 2007
Logistics:
4 December 2006 23 January 2007 (50 days)
Beneficiaries:
6 HH more than original request. 46% female and 18% of total under 10 years of age
Current Situation:
Continuous patrols from January through the harvest have required villagers to regularly abandon fields and gardens. SPDC troops destroyed and/or pillaged personal belongings.
Military Units, Locations, and Commanders:
MOC-16 Headquarters: That Oo
LIB-323 Column 1, led by Win Zin Tun, based at Phy Ro Kyo camp LIB-323 Tin Aung Myint, Kwee Dae Khaw camp commander LIB-323 Han Zaw Min, Mah Lah Dah camp commander
LIB-507 Htay Lin Battalion Operations commander LIB-507 Myo Myint Aung, Htee Wa Bway camp commander
LIB-96 Mya Kho, Battalion Operations commander (Column 1) LIB-96 That Naing Oo, Battalion Operations commander (Column 2)
LIB-241 Kyaw Thu, Battalion Operations commander (Column 1) LIB-241 Tin Soe, Battalion Operations commander (Column 2) Area of operations: Phlay Hsa Lo and Ko Phla Lo Klo
LIB-522 Myint Lwin, Column 1 commander Area of operation: Mu That LIB-522 Nyan Oo, Column 1 commander Area of operations: Mu That
LIB-242 Aung Kyaw Moe, Column 1 commander Based at Mu That camp LIB-242 Zaw Lin Oo, Column 2 commander Based at Hsaw Me Lu camp
LIB-569 Soe Pain, Battalion Operations commander:
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 283
“Since the beginning of 2006, the SPDC entered to Moo Township area and kept patrolling in the area until harvest time. The villagers have been fleeing constantly and still not dare to go back and to collect their crops even the harvest time. At the time of running, the SPDC stolen and destroyed and took all the villagers’ property as they found. The aims of the SPDC operation in the area is not only to destroy the villagers’ property and the shelter, but also shot killed the villagers on site. Wherever they reached these the SPDC set up a lot of landmines where the villagers usually travel, under the banana tree, under the paddy, under paddy husk. As a result, villagers had fled to many different places for life security…”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 284
Report Number CIDKP-2006-02
Date Submitted: 31 March 2006
Location: Southeast of Mone, along the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Hsaw Kar Der Ler Klar Htee Ler Baw Hta Kwee De KAw
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 20 499 3,577
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-116, LIB-351, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 285
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 286
CIDKP-2006-02 ERA Request Summary 31 March 2006
Demographics:
3,577 people (499 households) in 20 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Hsaw Kare Der, Ler Kla Htee Ler Baw Hta and Kwee De Kaw Village Tracts in Mone Township, Nyaunglebin (Kler Lwee Htoo) District). Target population includes 209 girls and 252 boys under 5 years of age and 1,549 females and 1,567 males over 5 years of age.
Area runs along the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Car Road and South-east of Mone Town. Subject to counter-insurgency operations since the mid-1970s.
Rationale:
A joint force of about 650 SPDC troops from IB-60, LIB-116, and LIB-351 divided into 2 columns and conducted “search-and-destroy” patrols at the end of last year’s harvest (20 November – 15 December, 2005).
Deliberate destruction of crops combined with fear caused by heavy artillery attacks into paddy fields and hiding sites, resulting in a total of 168 paddy farms with a potential to produce 10,000 baskets of paddy. Total equivalent to provide rice supplies for 2,200 people for 3 months.
During the first-half of February 2006, 800 troops from the above battalions plus LIB-599 deployed troops on another “search-and-destroy” patrol. 1 villager was shot dead, 3 others wounded, 29 houses burned as well as 31 paddy barns holding over 2,770 baskets. Total losses equivalent to rice supplies for 900 people for over one month.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 287
ERA Request 31 March 2006
Terrain consists almost entirely of steep hills and valleys. Livelihoods: betel nut and leaf, dog fruit, and durian.
Most of the plantations destroyed during the “Four Cuts” operations, which began in 1975-1977. Serial displacement followed due to subsequent campaigns, e.g. “Scorched Earth Campaign” (1997), and establishment of new military camps. Area targeted from “search-and-destroy” operations at least once every 2-3 years.
Military Operations:
20/11/05 Approximately 650 troops from LIB-116, LIB-351, and IB-60 calling them selves “Pyaung Shin” (clean everything out), led by Major Khin Maung Lwin, Major Moe Hhein, and Major Thein Oo [respectively?] entered the following village tracts: Hsaw Kar Der, Ler Klar, Htee Ler Baw Hta, and Kwee Di Kaw. The troops divided into 2 columns and conducted patrols in the following area: LIB-351 (Hsaw Kar Der and Ler Klar), and IB-60 as well as LIB-116 (Htee Ler Baw Hta and Kwee Di Kaw). Patrols lasted 25 days and withdrew on 15 December 2005.
Troops and artillery attacks destroyed: 31 paddy farms in Hsaw Kar Der (typically produces (2,400 baskets), 36 paddy farms in Ler Klar (2,700 basktects), 58 paddy farms in Htee Ler Baw Hta (3,200 baskets), and 43 paddy farms in Kwee Di Kaw (2,900 baskets) Village Tracts.
4 February 2006 Approximately 800 combined troops from IB-60, LIB-116, LIB-351, and LIB- 599 led by Col. Win Htay entered Hsaw Kar Der, Ler Klar, Htee Ler Baw Hta, Mee Ya Hta, and Kwee Di Kaw Village Tracts. One artillery company [not identified] established a position on Pau Mu Hta hill and fired shells. No one was injured, but residents fled to hiding areas. “Search- and-Destroy” operations conducted for 16 days, after which troops returned to Than Bo and Shwe Lan Taung camps.
During these operations, troops [not identified] located and shot villagers in the Htee Daw Mu Hta hiding site: Saw Kler Say (killed); Saw Law Khi, Saw Ka Tar, and Saw Loe Noh wounded.
During these operations, troops burnt down the following (by village tract): 29 houses in Hsaw Kar Der and Ler Klar, 9 paddy barns containing 748 baskets of paddy in Hsaw Kar Der, 6 paddy farms containing 789 baskets of paddy in Ler Klar, 16 paddy barns containing 1,020 baskets of paddy in Htee Ler Baw Hta, 11 paddy barns with 964 baskets of paddy in Kwee Di Kaw.
Troops found 3 caches belonging to Saw Eh Lweh, Daw Du Doo, and Naw Gay Paw and looted, valued at approximately 1.5 million kyat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 288
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hsaw Kar Der Thay Nee Khi 17 54 66 12 5 137 2 Hsaw Kar Der Klaw Khi 15 47 53 10 8 118 3 Hsaw Kar Der Hsaw Kar Der 20 69 69 9 8 155 4 Hsaw Kar Der H[t]ee Oo 16 52 58 14 8 100 5 Ler Klar Mee Ya Hta 31 90 91 18 14 213 6 Ler Klar Ler Klar 10 33 30 10 5 78 7 Ler Klar Ta Wor Pu 12 36 42 4 4 86 8 Ler Klar Ler Taw Der 21 63 59 16 8 146 9 Ler Klar Hsaw Khi 32 100 92 18 15 225 10 Ler Klar Htee Kho 43 121 131 13 18 283 11 Ler Klar Maw Lu Kho 30 88 92 20 14 214 12 Htee Ler Baw Hta Htee Taw Khi 5 17 15 2 2 36 13 Htee Ler Baw Hta Thay Kay Lu 5 18 15 3 3 39 14 Htee Ler Baw Hta Nwa Htu 70 239 195 34 34 502 15 Htee Ler Baw Hta Ta Mu Khi 28 89 93 19 11 212 16 Kwee De Kaw Hsaw Kher Khi 16 58 57 8 3 126 17 Kwee De Kaw Nya Mu Khi 19 61 63 6 7 137 18 Kwee De Kaw Gi Blay Hti 17 56 58 4 6 124 19 Kwee De Kaw Ler Wah Lu 13 38 37 5 2 124 20 Kwee De Kaw Tae Nar Hta 79 238 233 27 29 527 499 1,567 1,549 252 209 3,577
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 289
ERA Distribution Summary 23 August 2006
Demographics:
Assistance provided to 3,577 people (499 HH) from 20 villages identified in request. 461 under 5 (252 boys and 209 girls), 1,567 males and 1,549 females over 5.
Situation Update:
Military operations follow similar pattern: last 10-14 days, troops withdraw for one week to rest, and then repeat.
Offensives started the first week of March and continued through the ERA distribution. 273 paddy farms completely abandoned since then. Others have not yet abandoned them. Some of these Total work the fields at night, but due to the operations do not have sufficient time.
Note:
The price of rice since the ERA request has risen from 5,000 kyat/tin to 6,000. The funds distributed will provide Total with only 2.5 months of the planned 3 month supply of rice/person. Total buy rice through secret contacts in with villagers and traders in the Mone and Ler Doh towns or Lu Thaw in Papun Township.
Military Operations Update:
Main camps in Mone, Ma La Daw, Than Bo Gyi, and Kyaukkyi. New camps established in Kyaung Pya, Ko Lar Wah, and Mu Theh. Temporary camps established during “Search-and- Destroy” operations. Typical pattern: operations ran for 10-14 days, approximately 1 week of rest, then further operations. Total, where possible, returned to work their paddy farms.
LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-368, and LIB-370 under MOC-10 and LIB-240, LIB-241, LIB-323, and LIB-567 under MOC-16 active in Mone Township beginning in March through ERA distribution.
14/6/06 LIB-522 departed Ma La Daw and entered Khwee Di Kaw on 16/6. The troops established a camp at Ka Saw Kaw and fired artillery shells into IDP hiding places at Ge Blay Hta and Tae Nar Hta. Total fled and remained in the forest for 8 days. They returned to their regular hiding places after the troops withdrew.
21/6/06 LIB-351 and LIB-536 left Mu Theh and then entered the Hsaw Kar Der Village Tract. Total from Bway Kho Lu, Ter Kwe Day, and Hee Oo fled to the forest.
24/606 These troops opened fire on Hee Oo villagers; however, no injuries reported. Troops ate 7 pigs and 30 chickens, estimated value: 200,000 kyat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 290
26/6/06 LIB-596 entered Htee Ler Bwa Hta Village Tract. Total from Noh Hta had to move deeper into the forest and remained there for 2 weeks during the rainy season until troops withdrew. The Total then returned to their regular hiding places.
26/6/06 The troops that had conducted operations in Hee Oo [above] continued to Ler Klar Village Tract. Total in hiding at Naw Law Tae had to move deeper into the forest as well. The troops withdrew one week later and the Total returned to their regular hiding places.
Impact of these operations on food security (by village tract)
1. Hsaw Kar Dar: 52 plots of upland paddy abandoned. 2. Ler Klar: 97 plots. 3. Htee Ler Baw Hta: 51 plots. 4. Kwee Di Kaw: 73 plots. 5. Unspecified number of semi-abandoned plots (limited access to work them).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 291
Report Number CIDKP-2006-14
Date Submitted: 24 October 2006
Location: n.a.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Mone n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Hgo Pu Hsaw Mee Lu
Zone: Unspecified
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 12 341 2,370
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Central Command, Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-323, LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-369, LIB-522 Infantry Battalions IB-60, IB-86, IB-241, IB-351 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 292
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 293
CIDKP-2006-14 ERA Request Summary 24 October 2006
Demographics:
2,370 people (341 households) from 12 villages in Hgo Pu and Hsaw Mee Lu Village Tracts, Mone Township, Nyaunglebin. (KNU: Kler Lwee Htoo District)
Background:
Prior to 1974-75 residents of Hgo Pu and Hsaw Me Lu Village Tracts relied primarily on betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and lemon orchards for their livelihoods. There was some wetland and upland paddy production. During the “Fourt Cuts” patrols destroyed the plantations and Total fled to upland areas and depended upon upland paddy.
During the 1997 offensive, troops targeted paddy fields and livestock.
Between 2002 and 2005 the number and severity of the offensives declined somewhat.
Military Operations:
1 March LIB-364, LIB-366, and LIB-368 (MOC-10) entered Hgo Pu and Hsaw Me Lu Village Tracts.
2 April The above LIB rotated out and replaced by LIB-323, LIB-522, IB-86, and IB-241 (MOC- 16) as well as IB-60 and 351 from Central Command.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 294
Paddy Lost
No. Village Village Barns Barns Rice Total Tract Burnt Abandoned Barns (Baskets) Burned 1 Hgo Pu Hgo Pu 1 2 5 576 2 Hgo Pu Maw Ke 1 3 249 Kho 3 Hgo Pu Ber Hgi Soe 1 106 4 Hgo Pu Paw Daw 5 7 8 1,343 5 Hgo Pu Play Loe 5 9 9 1,485 Klo 6 Hsaw Mee Hsaw Mee 1 4 3 556 Lu Lu 7 Hsaw Mee Ler Ka Daw 1 1 9 608 Lu 8 Hsaw Mee Htee Ya Khi 3 2 324 Lu 9 Hsaw Mee Ta Ray Kho 1 2 3 381 Lu 10 Hsaw Mee Hsaw Me 2 4 510 Lu Soe 11 Hsaw Mee Htee Blaw 3 1 9 734 Lu Khi 12 Hsaw Mee Ler Taw Lu 2 3 5 585 Lu 19 35 61 7,457
During March – April 2006 MOC-10 and MOC-16 troops destroyed 9 plots of upland paddy farms in Hgo Pu, 2 in Maw Ke Kho, 13 in Paw Daw, and 27 in Play Loe Klo, which together would produce an estimated 3,570 baskets.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 295
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hgo Pu Hgo Pu 16 49 53 9 5 116 2 Hgo Pu Maw Ke Kho 7 26 25 4 1 56 3 Hgo Pu Ber Hgi Soe 6 26 22 2 2 52 4 Hgo Pu Paw Daw 46 144 146 22 16 328 5 Hgo Pu Play Loe Klo 44 146 157 28 18 349 6 Hsaw Mee Lu Hsaw Mee Lu 41 110 129 19 18 276 7 Hsaw Mee Lu Ler Ka Daw 29 87 90 15 12 204 8 Hsaw Mee Lu Htee Ya Khi 16 37 43 7 9 96 9 Hsaw Mee Lu Ta Ray Kho 30 85 84 10 6 185 10 Hsaw Mee Lu Hsaw Me Soe 16 63 53 8 8 132 11 Hsaw Mee Lu Htee Blaw Khi 50 142 139 23 17 321 12 Hsaw Mee Lu Ler Taw Lu 40 108 107 23 17 255 341 1,023 1,048 170 129 2,370
Current rice price: 7,5000 kyat/tin and can be purchased in Kyaukgyi and Mayaung Oo area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 296
Report Number KORD-2007-09
Date Submitted: 7 March 2007
Location: East of Mone, north Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., north Traw Lo River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Mu Thae Baw Der Kheh Po Der Kayuk Po Der
Zone: Hiding area
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 7 153 1,170
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-15 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-96, LIB-241, LIB-323, LIB-507 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16, MOC-9 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-96, LIB-241, LIB-323, LIB-507 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 297
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 298
KORD-2007-09 ERA Summary 7 March 2007
Demographics:
1,170 people (153 HH) from 7 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Thae Baw Der, Kheh Po Der, and Kayuk Po Der Village Tracts, Mone Township, Kler Lwi Htoo District.)
Located east of Mone town, north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road, north of Traw Lo River and south of Htaw Ta Htu Township (Taw Oo District).
Highland hiding area.
Rationale:
Approximately 50% of the population relies upon upland rice farming, the other 50% on day labor and small gardens (betel nut, dog fruit, durian, etc.) to supplement incomes.
Early 2006 SPDC patrols began in the area. KORD suspects that the construction of the new capital is largely responsible for the increase in troop activities in the region.
15 October 2006 LIB-323, LIB-507, LIB-96, and LIB-241 (under MOC-15) began frequent patrols and imposed travel restrictions on farming, selling crops, and trading. Restrictions are forcing more people into day labor to survive.
Villages mentioned are particularly vulnerable to harassment due to proximity to camps in Maladaw and Htee Wa Bway (1.5 – 3 hours walk away). Troops at latter base fired mortar shells into civilian settlements on 28 December. Troops reportedly laid landmines in area to further restrict movements.
October – November 2006 2 patrols reported and coincided with harvest time. Each patrol lasted 7-10 days, which prevented a full harvest and disrupted trading between hiding areas and mixed administration areas.
14 February 2007 Patrols along the Mone – Maladaw Road increased due to the arrival of a bulldozer for road construction and the transport of military rations. Villagers abandoned 25 paddy fields, 30 betel nut gardens; troops stole 15 pigs and 123 chickens.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 299
ERA Request 7 March 2007
Location:
Thae Baw Der, Kheh Po Der, and Kyauk Pya Village Tracts, Moo Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.
Period:
15 October 2006 – ERA request date
Military Units Identified:
MOC-16 LIB-323, led by Capt. Han Zaw Minn at Maladaw camp. LIB-507, led by Capt. Myo Myint Aung and Capt. Htay Linn in Htee Wa Bway Khee camp. LIB-96, led by Maj. Mya Ko and Thet Naing Oo LIB-241, led by Col. Kyaw Thu and Capt. Tin Soe
28 January 2007 MOC-9 troops replaced MOC-16 troops
Description:
21 October LIB-241 (2 columns) began patrols, lasting a week, in areas near the following villages: Phlay Khee, Ka Waw Kho, Phlay Pa, Thae Baw Der, Taw Pho Khee, Ka Ni Khee, Phlay Khee.
28 October 2006 LIB-323 and LIB-507 (based in Htee Wa Bway Khee and Maladaw camps) began patrols, which restricted civilian movements, interrupted lowland / upland trade, etc.
5 November LIB-507 and LIB-96 columns combined and patrolled Taw Pho Khee, Ka Ni Khee, Phlay Khee, Ka Waw Kho, and Thae Baw Der villages for 10 days.
17 November LIB-241 (2 columns) patrolled Phlay Khee and Phlay Pa areas for 8 days.
Patrols coincided with harvest and targeted areas where people live (hide), cultivate, and travel. Troops destroyed whatever food, clothes, and other property they could not carry, and landmines were laid. [Note: people frequently stepped on landmines in early 2006, but gradually figured out which areas were not safe.] Troops cut down fruit and nut trees in gardens as reportedly instructed by MOC-16 Commander Thet Naing.
28 December troops in Htee Wa Bway Khee camp fired 5 mortar shells into places where civilians residing.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 300
28 January 2007 Some MOC-9 battalions replaced MOC-16 battalions. Numbers not known, but they are conducting patrols, as was previously the case.
Total now subsist on rice porridge and borrow food from Kwee Di Khaw and Klaw Ka Ti villages.
Only people in Phlay Khee and Phlay Pa Villages have been able to return to their villages after troops withdraw. The rest remain in hiding places such as Pa Da Kho and Kaw Ba Kho.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Thae Baw Der Phlay Khee 17 169 2 Thae Baw Der Ka Waw Kho 31 248 3 Thae Baw Der Phlay Pa 15 114 4 Thae Baw Der Thae Baw Der 6 44 5 Kyauk Pya Taw Pho Khee 11 53 6 Kyauk Pya Ka Ni Khee 35 295 7 Kheh Po Der Phlay Khee 38 247 153 1,170
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 301
ERA Distribution Summary 10 July 2007
Demographics:
Distributed as requested, consisting of 584 females and 586 males. Slightly less than one-third were under ten years of age.
Logistics:
18 May – 5 July (approx. 7 weeks).
ERA Distribution:
May 2007 troops, based in Htee Wa Bway Khee, shelled people working in upland fields (30 minutes walk from Thae Baw Der Village), and one villager disappeared. Troops also burnt 3 houses and looted their property.
Total able to get 1-2 days food from local KNU leaders, but most subsisting on gruel.
Local price: 12,000 kyat/tin. Increase, in lowland and upland areas alike, due to SPDC patrols and travel restrictions. Jungle markets are the primary way to exchange goods.
SPDC established outposts in the few areas where the soil is good.
Military Operations Update:
Bases in Moo Township, Kler Lwi Htu District
LIB-60, BC Win Bo Shein, Than Bo base.
MOC-9, Commander Ye Aung, Than Htay (head of Military Intelligence) and Officer Kyaw Minn (entered Moo Township and oversaw patrols 7 February 2007 onwards).
LIB-374, TOC-2 Commander Tin So, Military Tactical Command 2, and patrols the Maw Keh Tha Per Kho area.
LIB-376, BC Khin Maung Oo, and patrols Kwee Di Khaw and Saw Tay Der.
LIB-380, BC Sein Win and 2nd BC Aung Naing O, patrols Mu That, Mi Yeh Htar, Hsaw Mi Lu, and Htee Ler Baw Hta areas.
LIB-379, led by Officer Ye Min Thu, based at Boh Ro Soe camp, and patrols surrounding area.
LIB-377, led by Column Commander Ko Ko Naing, and patrols: Kyaw Kyi Baw, Ma La Daw, Tha Pye Nyunt, Ler Sher Htoo, Yu Lo, and Ka Mu Lo areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 302
14 April 2007 LIB-376, led by officer Kyaw Nyunt Win, shot at villagers carrying dog fruit, betel leaf, betel nut, etc. to sell in the Tha Ka Per Lu region, where a secret jungle market is often held. No one was injured. Troops seized all of their property.
20 April LIB-599, LIB-590, and IB-60 forced villagers to provide 150 bullock carts to transport rations from Maw Lay and Mer Lay Villages to Ler Baw Hta Village. Villagers had to repair the damage the carts caused to the road using their own knives, mattocks, and hoes.
21-24 April MOC-9 commander, Moe Win Aung, forced villagers from Ka Mu Lo, Yu Lo, Lay Gho Lo, Baw Phla, Plaw Baw Der, and Phlya Hser Lo Villages to carry 3,000 sacks of rice to Phlay Hser Lo camp.
4 May Approximately 60 troops from Tha Phya Nyunt base arrived in Ma La Daw and forced approximately 80 villagers to porter rations to Saw Tay Der camp.
13 May 20 soldiers from an unknown battalion entered the Yo Daw Kho region of Taw Oo District and fired mortars into IDP hiding places. One Yo Khee villages, Saw Ra May, disappeared and no one knows his whereabouts. Troops burnt down 3 paddy huts, seized paddy and rice as well as 250,000 kyat. People fled and fields went untended.
15-22 May LIB-378 entered Htee Ler Baw Hta in Ler Khler Village Tract and conducted patrols for 8 days. People fled and fields went untended.
1 June MOC-9, led by officer Kyaw Nyunt Win, based at Ma La Daw camp, extorted 35,000 kyat from Maw Ke Tha Per Kho villagers.
2 June MOC-9 and KNLA firefight in Ya Khaing Daung region. MOC-9 troops encountered 6 villagers en route back to camp, arrested, and then killed all of them [summary execution]. The troops then burnt down all of the paddy huts belonging to people working in the region as well as Thet Pu Kwee. They forced everyone they found to relocate to Tha Phay Nyunt Village.
4 June LIB-60 imposed travel restrictions on people living in the following villages: Kyweh Chan, Tha Phay Gone, Aung Soe Moe, and Than Bo. They were not permitted to leave the village to work their fields, plantations, etc. The troops also forced residents from Ler Doh town to travel to Thi Ho Village to fence their camp, fining HH that did not participate 30,000 kyat each.
1-13 June about 60 MOC-9 troops, based in Mu Thet, set up a base along the border of the lowland / upland area, cutting communications. Villagers did not travel to markets in lowland areas for 2 weeks.
15 June LIB-599 forced villagers from Pay Tu, Sa Leh, Kyweh Chan (in Maw Bweh Khee and Thay Gar Der Village Tracts) to move to Ler Doh town, Baw Di Gone, and Tha Phay Gone regions respectively. According to the order, they had to do so by 20 June.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 303
16 June LIB-350 forced villages from Noh Poe, Taw Lu Kho, Maw Taw Ku, and Pa Na Ner to move to (Yan Aung) Htet Htu relocation site.
June LIB-590, led by Ko Ko Oo, burned down all of the paddy huts in the following villages Mae Yeh, Wel Kyi, Kyo Pin Hseink, Myaung Oo Kyi, and Naw Bo Tak Gone area. Troops did not permit them to rebuild their paddy huts and passes now needed to work their fields during the daytime only. They did so, according to KORD, due to fears that KNLA troops would use the huts as shelters.
According to local sources, SPDC troops established 3 more military outposts in frontline areas: 1) Mu Thet road area (Moo Township), 2) Ma Nay Pwar area (Taw Oo District), and 3) from Kwee Di Khaw to Ler Kler area. Troops had provided these outposts with 3 months of food rations to sustain their frontline patrols.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 304
Report Number KORD-2007-15
Date Submitted: 6 August 2007
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road, west of Sittaung River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htu Mu Saw Kha Der Ler Klah Htee Ler Baw Hta Ya Khee Kyauk Pya Kheh Po Der Khee Di Khaw Thae Baw Der Saw Tay Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 33 692 4,400
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Commented [JK1]: Military Operations Command MOC-9 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-251, LIB-374, LIB-376, LIB-377, LIB-378, LIB- 379, LIB-380, LIB-590, LIB-599, LIB-736 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 305
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-9, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division LID-66 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-351, LIB-374, LIB-376, LIB-377, LIB-378, LIB- 379, LIB-380, LIB-439, LIB-440, LIB-539, LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions IB-60, IB-276 Other Military Tactical 2
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 306
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 307
KORD-2007-15 ERA Summary 6 August 2007
Demographics:
4,400 people (692 HH) from 33 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division. (KNU: Saw Kha Der, Ler Klah, Htee Ler Baw Hta, Yah Khee, Kyauk Pya, Kheh Po Der, Kwee Di Khaw, Thae Baw Der, and Saw Tay Der Village Tracts, Mone Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.)
Location: north of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road, west of Sittaung River. Upland and hiding area.
Rationale:
During 2006 SPDC troops have established a series of positions in the area, destroyed fields and hiding places, leaving little food for Total as a result. Many villagers have fled to the Thai- Burma border as a result.
April 2007 troops began transporting ammunition and food rations to stockpile patrols for the entire year using trucks, bullock carts, and people (from lowland areas) as porters where trucks could not reach.
10 April 2007 OCH-9 (LIB-374, LIB-376, LIB-377, LIB-378, LIB-379, and LIB-380); SCH-2 (LIB-590, LIB-599, LIB-251, and IB-60), and LID-88 began conducting patrols, which are continuing up through the request date.
10 April 5 villagers stepped on landmines while returning from frontline areas.
20 April troops commandeered 60 bullock carts and travel restrictions on lowland populations put in place.
4 May 80 villagers forced to serve as porters.
N.d. LIB-376 troops shot at Total in hiding area while carrying dog fruit and betel leaves to the nearest market to sell. Patrols destroyed and/or confiscated property. Paddy fields abandoned; huts and homes burnt. Some villagers have since returned home, but many remain in hiding.
Outposts located on transportation routes, close to field, and landmines laid to prevent their travel and working.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 308
ERA Request 15 July 2007
Military Units Identified
MOC-9 (General Yeh Aung) LIB-374, based in Saw Tay Der, patrols Wah Khee area and Kyauk Pya area LIB-376, based in Kwee Di Khaw, patrols Kwee Di Khaw area LIB-377, patrols Ma La Daw, Yu Lo, Ka Mu Lo, Saw Tay Der, Kheh Po Der, and Thae Baw Der areas LIB-378, based in Po Ro Soe, patrols Htee Ler Baw Hta and Ler Klah areas LIB-379, patrols Mu Thae road LIB-380, based in Htee Ler Baw Hta
Military Strategic Command HQ-2 LIB-251, based in Aung Soe Moe LIB-590, based in Ye Oh Sin, patrols Kaw La Wah Lu area LIB-599, based in Inn To Shein IB-60, based in Than Bo
LID-88 Troops [not specified] based in Yo Do Kho and Bu Hsar Khee areas of Taw Oo (Toungoo) District.
Background:
Highland and hiding area under KNU administration. SPDC regards it as a “black area or free fire zone.” “The SPDC shoot at anyone they saw running away.”
Livelihoods: shifting paddy cultivation (some irrigated paddy farms), betel nut and durian gardening. Some cattle and buffalo breeding (but for plowing only), and small animals (goats, pigs, chicken).
2006 Patrols and outpost established on an ongoing basis. Search-and-destroy operations resulted in villagers having only 2-3 month food supply on average. Many moved to the border, while those that remained received ERA in December. Poor harvest in 2007 means the situation will grow worse.
Military Operations:
April 2007 MOC-9 and LIB-590 troops set up bases [outposts?] in Mu Thae, Po Ro Soe, Htee Ler Baw Hta, Kaw La Wah Lu, Kwee Di Khaw, Saw Tay Der, and Ma La Daw. Troops have supplied them with enough food and ammunitions to last the remainder of the year. Trucks to Mu Thae and Ma La Daw, porters (from lowland areas) and bullock carts to Po Roe Soe, Htee Ler Baw Hta, Kwee Di Khaw, and Saw Tay Der. Travel ban on villagers imposed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 309
10 April LIB-590 forced lowland villagers to porter military supplies to Kwee Di Khaw camp. Five people (Saw Wah Do, Saw Htoo Wah, Saw Moo Kyaw, Saw Ta Doh, and Saw Kyaw Ri) from Ko Ni, Haw Hta Plaw, and Nga Pyaw Taw Villages, stepped on landmines.
10 April MOC-9 and LIB-590 troops begin patrols in Saw Kher Khee, Nay Mu Khee, Ler Wah Lu, Gi Blay Hta, Tae Na Hta, and Nwah Lay Kho. Patrols last about one week. People fled and not able to work fields. Trops seized/destroyed food (including caches in hiding areas) and property when found, and planted landmines.
14 April LIB-376 troops, led by Company Commander Kyaw Nyunt Win, shot at Tha Ke Per Lu villagers while they were traveling to sell their betel leaves and dog fruit. They dropped everything and ran. Since then, villagers from Yaw Khee, Thae Baw Der, Kheh Po Der, Saw Tay Der, and Kyauk Phya afraid to go to the markets.
20 April LIB-599 and IB-60 commandeered 60 bullock carts from lowland villagers who also had to bring own machetes, hoes, and rations from Maw Lay to move supplies to LIB-378 troops at Htee Ler Baw Hta and Kaw La Wah Lu camps. LIB-599 and IB-60 imposed travel ban; villagers not permitted to leave villages. “They frightened and said that if anyone found outside the villages they would kill them.” These troops conducted patrols in Htee Htaw Khee, Thay Khay Lu, Ter Mu Khee, Nwah Khee, Nwah Hta, and Wa Tho Kho areas for 2 weeks, causing villagers to flee to the jungle without food, clothing, or other supplies. Troops destroyed everything they found in the villages and in the hiding sites, as well as laid landmines.
28 April LID-88 troops, from Yo Do Kho camp in Taw Oo District, entered the area. They “shot at villagers” from Yah Khee, Phlay Khee, and Phlay Pa villagers who were in their hiding sites. They also fired mortars. One Yaw Khee villager, Naw Ma Way, ran away and got lost for 2 days. Troops seized or destroyed everything they found.
May (no date) MOC-9 troops established 2 more outposts. One in Lay Day, near to Yu Lo village where people often bought food, and Khler Khay Daw Kho, located on the borderline of 3 village tracts: Kheh Po Der, Thae Baw Der, and Saw Tay Der. A large number of paddy fields are located in this area, and many villagers too afraid to return and tend them.
1-10 May LIB-378 patrolled Ler Klah Village Tract around the following villages: Maw Lu Kho, Ler Klah, Ta Gaw Pu, Ler Htaw Der, Saw Khee, and Mee Ya Htah.
4 May 60 troops [not specified] forced 80 Ma La Taw villagers to porter rations to Saw Tay Der camp. [LIB-374 based there and LIB-377 patrols there].
4 May Troops [not known] sent rations to the Saw Tay Der camp. Troops patrolled the following area to provide security: Saw Tay Der, Kheh Po Der, Phlay Khee, Kyauk Pya, Ka Pa Hta, Taw Pho Khee, Thae Baw Deer, and Ka Waw Kho. Villagers fled to the forest, and troops seized/destroyed whatever they found.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 310
13 May LID-88 troops from Yo Do Kho camp in Taw Oo District, entered the area again and “shot at villagers” in hiding sites from Yah Khee, Phlay Khee, and Phlay Pa, and fired mortars. Troops seized and destroyed everything they found.
15-22 May LIB-378 patrolled the Ler Klah Village Tract again. During the 2 patrols in May villagers had to hide in the jungle for about 20 days.
28 May LIB-379 troops left Mu Thae camp and set up a temporary outpost in Htee Hser Day, located between village fields and an informal market place. They remained there for 1 week, preventing them from tending their crops as well as buying/selling food/goods. June LIB-351 and IB-60, based in Kyaukgyi, imposed a total travel ban on Tha Pyin Gone, Aung Soe Moe, and Ler Doh villages. Troops laid landmines on the hillsides, bullock cart roads, and car roads.
6 July Troops [not known] entered the Saw Kha Der area and patrols Thay Nwe Khee, Klaw Khee, and Saw Kha Der areas. They destroyed some paddy fields.
Reasons:
Block lowland / upland communications to prevent assistance, destroy upland livelihoods and drive out villagers, and take control over the entire area.
Food Insecurity:
During the patrols, many Total went to Ler Bway Khee, Htwi Maw Lu, Pwo Do Mer, and Lay Lay Paw Law areas, some returned to the villages afterwards, others remain in the deep jungle. Food shortages are currently severe. Local KNU able to give very small amount. Most eat rice gruel with bamboo shoots to fill their stomachs and remain alive.
Currently, people are able to purchase rice only when KNLA troops can arrange secret trips where they meet with people in different places in mixed-administration areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 311
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Village Households M>10 F>10 M<10 F<10 Total Tract 1 Saw Thay 18 41 44 22 10 117 Kha Der Nwe Khee 2 Saw Klaw 16 39 36 18 17 110 Kha Der Khee 3 Saw Saw 18 44 46 13 16 119 Kha Der Kha Der 4 Ler Maw 27 49 63 41 27 180 Klah Lu Kho 5 Ler Ler 12 27 21 15 13 76 Klah Klah 6 Ler Ta Gaw 11 20 27 11 8 66 Klah Pu 7 Ler Ler 37 63 59 37 34 193 Klah Htaw Der 8 Ler Htee 45 94 86 29 32 241 Klah Kho 9 Ler Saw 39 80 69 28 29 206 Klah Khee 10 Ler Mee Ya 31 55 50 30 21 156 Klah Htah 11 Htee Hteh 7 14 12 8 4 38 Ler Htaw Baw Khee Hta 12 Htee Thay 17 31 34 11 15 91 Ler Khay Baw Lu Hta 13 Htee Ter Mu 12 29 34 12 11 86 Ler Khee Baw Hta 14 Htee Nwah 18 46 37 21 16 120 Ler Khee Baw Hta 15 Htee Nwah 49 132 78 56 49 315 Ler Hta
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 312
No. Village Village Households M>10 F>10 M<10 F<10 Total Tract Baw Hta 16 Htee Wa Tho 23 71 57 30 21 179 Ler Kho Baw Hta Subtotal 16 380 835 753 382 323 2,293 ERA Recipients 17 Yaw Yaw 16 n/a n/a n/a n/a 124 Khee Khee 18 Kyauk 12 n/a n/a n/a n/a 69 Pya Kyauk Pya 19 Kyauk Ka Pa 14 n/a n/a n/a n/a 82 Pya Hta 20 Kyauk Taw 25 n/a n/a n/a n/a 132 Pya Phoe Khee 21 Kheh Kheh 14 n/a n/a n/a n/a 92 Po Der Po Der 22 Kheh Phla 38 n/a n/a n/a n/a 242 Po Der Khee 23 Khee Di Nwah 39 n/a n/a n/a n/a 227 Khaw Lay Kho 24 Khee Di Tae Na 10 n/a n/a n/a n/a 64 Khaw Hta 25 Khee Di Gi Blay 5 n/a n/a n/a n/a 25 Khaw Hta 26 Khee Di Ler 7 n/a n/a n/a n/a 42 Khaw Wah Lu 27 Khee Di Saw 10 n/a n/a n/a n/a 62 Khaw Kher Khee 28 Khee Di Nya 19 n/a n/a n/a n/a 105 Khaw Mu Khee 29 Thae Thae 16 n/a n/a n/a n/a 103 Baw Baw Der Der 30 Thae Ka 37 n/a n/a n/a n/a 301 Baw Waw Der Kho
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 313
No. Village Village Households M>10 F>10 M<10 F<10 Total Tract 31 Thae Phlay 24 n/a n/a n/a n/a 238 Baw Khee Der 32 Thae Phlay 20 n/a n/a n/a n/a 164 Baw Pa Der 33 Saw Saw 6 n/a n/a n/a n/a 35 Tay Der Tay Der Subtotal Did not 17 312 0 0 0 0 2,107 Non-ERA receive Recipients ERA 33 692 4,400
Military Operations Update:
Beginning of August IB-60 Commander [not identified] called villagers from Kho Pu Village Tract to attend a meeting. He demanded that 2 people from each village join the army. If the village refused, then they had to pay 50,000 kyat and 1 sack of rice as a fine.
6 August Troops based at Saw Tay Der outpost moved to Ma La Daw. They demanded a nearby village [not named] provided 10 porters. Some of the troops then moved to Kwee Di Khaw.
7 September LIB-380 (under MOC-9) began patrols in Yu Lo, Ka Mu Lo, and Ler Wah Daw. Troops accused them of having guns, imposed a travel ban, and demanded that the headmen give them up. Some of the villagers, especially the ones in Tha Pyi Nyunt relocation site, fled to the jungle.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 314
ERA Distribution Summary 18 January 2008
Livelihoods:
Hill region and hiding areas. 95% depend upon hillside paddy, while 5% rely on gardening, day labor, and animal husbandry. Increase in patrols led them to abandon fields, which troops subsequently destroyed (burnt).
During distribution 20 households planning on heading to the border due to the situation.
Total can usually buy rice in Mu Thet and Ta Khaw Pwa jungle markets where lowland and highland people secretly meet.
Situation:
Constant patrols began December 2007 and ongoing through ERA distribution report. Villagers typically flee to paddy huts (alternative homes) or the forest. They maintain caches of food and clothing for this purpose.
Military Situation Update:
MOC-9, led by Capt. Ye Aung, based in Tha Phay Nyunt. Military Tactical-2, led by Junior Captain Tin Soe, baed in Maw Kheh Tha Ber Kho. LIB-374, led by Col. Nyi Nyi, based at Maw Kheh Tha Ber Kho. LIB-376, led by Junior Capt. Khin Maung Lay, based in Kwee Du Khaw. LIB-377, led by Junior Captain Ko Ko Naing, based in Tha Phay Nyunt and Ka Mu Lo. LIB-378, led by Junior Captain Thein Tun Aung, based in Ko Plah Lay Koh. LIB-379, led by Col. Ye Min Thu, based in Po Ro Soe and Wa Doh Kho. LIB-380, led by Col. Sein Win, based in Saw Mi Lu [Column?]. LIB-380, led by Col. Col. Zaw Naing Oo, based in Mi Ye Htar [Column?]. LIB-380, led by Col. Ye Lwin Htoo, based in Htee Ler Baw Hta [Column?]. LIB-539, led by Junior Captain Tun Thein Kyi, patrols highland areas.
December 2007 MOC-21, including its commander [not named], and IB-276 entered Mu Township and patrolled highland areas until the ERA finished its distribution. According to local sources, one company has 20-25 troops.
Human Rights Abuses Documented:
1 June 2007 MOC-9, led by officer Kyaw Nyunt Win, extorted 350,000 kyat from Maw Kheh Tha Per Kho Village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 315
2 June LIB-440 killed 6 villagers from Ya Khaing Taung Village. Names: 1) Maung Tin San; 2) Maung Han Hsi; 3) Maung Kyaw Soe; 4) Maung Kyi Khaing; 5) Maung Myint Zaw; 6) Maung Kho Myint.
2 June LIB-440 troops also burnt down all of the houses in Thel Bu Kwin Village. Villagers forced to relocate to Tha Phay Nyunt Village.
9 July LIB-379, led by Col. Ye Min Thu, established a camp at Wa Doh Kho, in the Saw Khaw Der area, a 30-minute walk from villagers’ homes. The troops burnt down 6 paddy huts and 6 hillside fields. People abandoned 46 more fields and 28 paddy barns because of the new camp and regular patrols. Houses, plantations, and fields belonging to villagers in Ler Kler and Htee Ler Baw Hta also destroyed and abandoned.
11 July LIB-379, based in Po Ro Soe camp, arrested 4 villagers at Wa Doh Kho while they were carrying food back from the market. Troops killed 3 and 1 escaped.
20 July LIB-590, led by BC Ko Ko Oo, extorted 100,000 kyat from Myaw Oo Village; 200,000 kyat from Bhaw Pi Der Village, and 200,000 kyat from Aung Chang Tha Village.
22 July LIB-351, led by BC Tun Lwin, demanded 1 person for each village (Pho Thaw Zu, Ter Paw, Wel Kyi, Lu Ah, and Thit Char Seik) for [military?] recruits. BC fined: Pho Thaw Zu 40,000 kyat; Ter Paw 60,000 kyat; Wel Kyi 60,000 kyat; Lu Ah 70,000 kyat; and Thit Char Seik 70,000 kyat.
23 July LIB-351, led by BC Tun Lwin, arrested 2 villagers from Kyauk Pyar and demanded 10,000 kyat/person for their release.
23 July LIB-377, BC Ko Ko Khaing, imposed a travel ban on residents of Yu Lo and Ka Mu Lo Villages. He also demanded each village provide 4 people/day to serve as daily messengers for Play Hsar Lo military camp.
24 July LIB-351, led by BC Tun Lwin, demanded 50,000 kyat and 4 baskets of rice from Kyauk Pyar Village if they did not provide a recruit. Saw Hto Shel paid.
24 July LIB-539, led by BC Tun Thein Kyi, shot and killed one person from Ler Kler Village Tract named Saw Eh K’ya Htoo.
30 July LIB-351, led by BC Tun Win, forced villagers (Myan Ye, Ter Paw, Pho Thaw Su, Thit Chage Seik, Oo Chit Kay, Nga Law The, and Kyauk Pyar) to clear the road of brush and fill into potholes with stones.
30 July IB-60, led by BC Zaw Lin, demanded that Gho Phu Village Tract residents provide 2 recruits. They paid 50,000 kyat fine instead.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 316
1 August LIB-351, led by BC Tun Lwin, ordered residents of Kyauk Pyar Village to relocate to Tha Htay Gone, but could pay 340,000 kyat for the village and 1 basket of rice/household not to move.
13 August Saw Htee Mu, resident of Thay Ngwe Khee Village, stepped on a landmine in the Naw Hay Pu region.
6 September Military Strategy [2?] commander Khin Maung Oo, based in Ler Doh Town, ordered Aung Soe Moe residents to move to the Maik Dar quarter in Ler Doh by 9 September [3 days]. Anyone who “do not obey the instruction will be shot dead.” One villager, Saw Eh Hsa refused to move and committed suicide using a dagger.
6 September Chief of Ler Doh Township ordered villagers in Ta Khaw Pwa Village Tract to plough 100 acres to grow sunflower seeds and then forced them to buy 100 baskets of seed to do so. Each basket was priced as 1,000 kyat.
6 September LIB-377, led by BC Ko Ko Khain, demanded that 300 villagers, including women and children, from Yu Lo and Ka Mu Lo villagers porter military rations to Play Hsar Lo camp.
14 September LIB-439 demanded villagerses from Thit Charge [Chaung?] Seik, Oo Chit Seik,Pho Thaw Su, and Ter Paw villages to fence the military camp, as well as build 5 guard house on the Ler Doh River bank.
15 September LIB-599, led by Capt. Soe Thein demanded 5 viss of fish paste, 2 viss of chicken, 3 viss of dried fish, 6 baskets of bean seeds (green gam), 20 cattle, as well as 10 people to plow and cultivate the beans. LIB-599 also demanded 1 new soldier from each of the 11 different regions in Moo Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.
18 September LIB-599, led by BC Tin Bo Aung, demanded 2 viss of fish paste, 2 viss of chicken, 2 viss of dried fish from Wai Zwel Village.
22 September LIB-599 demanded 1 new recruit and 14,000 kyat from Wai Zwel Village. If the village failed to provide a recruit, the amount would increase to 80,000 lyat.
1 October LIB-439, led by Sergeant Hla Tun, extorted 5,000 kyat from each of the farmers living in the Kyo Bin Seik Village area.
6 October Military Tactical 2, led by Tactical Commander Khin Maung Oo, instructed LIB-351, led by BC Tun Lwin, to plant landmines in / near villages.
10 October LIB-599, led by Capt. Win Thein extorted 210 eggs from Ta Khaw Pwa villagers and fined households 23,100 kyat if they could not provide eggs.
13 October Troops [not named; LID-88 listed earlier as based here], based at Bu Hsar Khee, shot at villagers in Yaw Khee Village. Residents fled. Troops then burnt down a church and houses belonging to: Saw K’Blue Htoo, Naw Tu Tu, Naw Ma Win, Naw Ta Mwee, Naw Ka Tu, Saw
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 317
Lay Soe, as well as their belongings. The troops then fired 15 mortar shells into areas they believed Total to be hiding.
20 October LIB-439, led by Company Commander, Lwin Maung Maung, shot and killed one woman from Kyauk Pyar Village and her daughter (age 3).
14 November LIB-599 extorted 100 bamboo poles and 150 thatches from Ta Khaw Village. LIB-599 also forced 70 villagers from Ta Khaw and another 100 from Htee To Lo Village to build a military “place” [camp or outpost?] in the Khaw Hsi Law region.
1 December LIB-377 entered Pay Paw Hta and shot and killed Saw Min Ghay, a resident of the village.
Living Conditions:
Some residents live in bamboo houses (from 1 month to 1 year), while many others are in hiding areas. KNLA cannot guarantee full protection, but does share information regarding troop movements and facilitates their travel to other areas believed to be safe. According to local sources, villagers had to flee patrols frequently during 2007.
Successive displacements led HH from different areas to combine, and the population “increase” exceeds the carrying capacity of the land, which has very poor soils.
Villagers in the Saw Kha Der Village Tract can buy rice in Mu Thet Market, those in Ler Kler Village Tract can in Aung Soe Moe, and those in Htee Ler Baw Hta can at the Ta Khaw Pwa designated [secret] market. Villagers without direct access to a market walk for 4-5 days and purchase rice at designated [secret] areas. Some villagers can now contact people for rice, but local leaders need to arrange security for it to occur.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 318
Report Number CIDKP-2007-06
Date Submitted: 6 September 2007
Location: Hgo Pu and Hsaw Mee Lu Village Tracts
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Mu Hgo Pu Hsaw Mee Lu
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 12 341 2,370
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-323, LIB-351, LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-522, LBI- 567, LIB-590 Infantry Battalions IB-86, IB-241, IB-242 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 319
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 320
CIDKP-2007-06 ERA Distribution Summary 6 September 2007
Demographics:
2,370 people (341 households) from 12 villages in Kyaukgyi Township (Pegu Division). (KNU: Hgo Pu and Hsaw Mee Lu Village Tracts in Mone Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.)
Includes 299 children (129 girls and 241 boys) under 5, and 1,759 females and 2,0007 males over 5.
Livelihood:
Hillside cultivation. Villagers typically flee whenever patrols approach, abandoning fields.
Military Operations:
LIB-351 and LIB-590 deployed patrols between June and July 2007. Villagers fled. 3 indiscriminately shot and wounded while travelling to Ler Doh Town to purchase rice. Troops looted 109,000 kyat, 48 betel nut and 5 durian plantations cut down on 25 July. One village shot dead on 27 July [LIB not identified]. 8 paddy fields destroyed by weeds. Villagers sneak back at night to work fields when possible and to remove food caches. Patrols caused two primary schools to close.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 321
ERA Distribution Report 20 March 2007
Background:
Residents of both village tracts farmed the area prior to “Four Cuts” campaigns. Main crops: betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and lemons (lemon-limes). Some people also cultivated wet paddy and upland paddy. The campaign destroyed the above, prompting Total to move into the jungle and rely mainly upon upland paddy.
1997 “Scorched Earth” offensive targeted these village tracts.
2002-2005 further offensives frequent.
People rely upon fruits gathered in the forest to sell to traders for rice and other goods.
Military Operations:
Hgo Pu Village Tract
2006 Livestock, paddy barns, paddy fields destroyed or abandoned during offensive
1 March LIB-364, LIB-366, and LIB-368 (MOC-10) launched patrols in Hgo Pu out and Hsaw Me Lu Village Tracts.
2 April LIB-323, LIB-522, IB-86 (MOC-16) and 351 from Central Command replaced above units.
March-April MOC-10 and MOC-16 troops destroyed 9 upland paddy plots (Hgo Pu), 2 (Maw Ke Kho), 13 (Paw Daw), and 27 (Play Loe Klo), estimated yield of 3,570 baskets of paddy.
24 October IB-242 entered hiding areas for Total from Mae Khe Kho, Hgo Pu, Ber Hgi Soe and shot/killed Saw Moo Khin (54 years old). Other Total fled, and remaining possessions destroyed, valued at 2,900,000 kyat. Troops patrolled area for 10 days and then withdrew to Ko Lar Wah Lu camp. They destroyed 3 upland paddy plots (Ber Hgi Soe), 11 (Hgo Pu), and 5 (Maw Ke Kho), estimated yield of 1,600 baskets of paddy.
19 November LIB-567 (from Than Bo camp) began patrols and fired heavy weapons into IDP hiding areas (Paw Daw and Play Loe Klo areas) on the 21st. Troops conducted operations for 18 days and destroyed 19 plots of paddy (Paw Daw), 27 (Play Loe Klo), estimated yield of 4,200 baskets of paddy. 6 hiding place found and destroyed, including possessions valued at 1,300,000 kyat.
Hsaw Mee Lu Village Tract
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 322
25 October LIB-323 let Ko Lar Wah Lu camp and began patrols in village tract. 26 October troops opened fire on IDP hiding sites. Saw Tha Gay Htoo (age 16) killed and Saw Lay Ber Htoo wounded. Operations in Hsaw Mee Lu, Ler Ka Daw, Htee Ya Khi, and Ta Ray Kho lasted 18 days. Patrols destroyed 9 plots of upland paddy (Hsaw Mee Lu), 5 (Ker Ka Daw), 6 (Htee Ya Khi), and 8 (Ta Ray Kho), estimated yield of 2,500 baskets.
15 November IB-241 departed Kyaukgyi and began patrols in Hsaw Mee Lu area.
17 November troops entered hiding areas for people from Hsaw Me Soe, Htee Blaw Khi, and Ler Taw Lu. Saw Maw Tha Tun captured and killed. Operations continued for 9 more days, during which troops destroyed 14 paddy barns (Hsaw Me Soe, 13 (Ler Tw Lu), and 9 (Htee Blaw Khi), estimated yield of 3,000 baskets of paddy.
No. Village Village Paddy Paddy Barns Paddy Paddy Total Tract Barns Abandoned Barns Farms Baskets Burnt Destroyed Destroyed 1 Hgo Pu Hgo Pu 1 2 5 11 576 2 Hgo Pu Maw Ke 0 1 3 5 249 Kho 3 Hgo Pu Ber Ghi 0 0 1 3 106 Soe 4 Hgo Pu Paw 5 7 8 19 1,343 Daw 5 Hgo Pu Play 5 9 9 27 1,485 Loe Klo 6 Hsaw Hsaw 1 4 3 9 556 Mee Lu Mee Lu 7 Hsaw Ler Ka 1 1 9 5 608 Mee Lu Daw 8 Hsaw Htee Ya 0 3 2 6 324 Mee Lu Khi 9 Hsaw Ta Ray 1 2 3 8 381 Mee Lu Kho 10 Hsaw Hsaw 14 2 4 0 1,630 Mee Lu Mee Soe 11 Hsaw Htee 12 1 9 0 1,454 Mee Lu Blaw Khi 12 Hsaw Ler Taw 15 3 5 0 1,625 Mee Lu Lu Total 55 35 61 93 10,337
Troops detached and destroyed paddy barn roofs to permit rain to ruin rice.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 323
Total living small huts made of bamboo, water from streams, no toilets. Diseases common (malaria, colds, diarrhea). FBR provided some medicine. Some people able to seek medicine in KNU townships when SPDC patrols in other areas.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M >5 F >5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hgo Pu Hgo Pu 16 49 53 9 5 116 2 Hgo Pu Maw Ke Kho 7 26 25 4 1 56 3 Hgo Pu Ber Ghi Soe 6 26 22 2 2 52 4 Hgo Pu Paw Daw 46 144 146 22 16 328 5 Hgo Pu Play Loe Klo 44 146 157 28 18 349 6 Hsaw Mee Lu Hsaw Mee Lu 41 110 129 19 18 276 7 Hsaw Mee Lu Ler Ka Daw 29 87 90 15 12 204 8 Hsaw Mee Lu Htee Ya Khi 16 37 43 7 9 96 9 Hsaw Mee Lu Ta Ray Kho 30 85 84 10 6 185 10 Hsaw Mee Lu Hsaw Mee Soe 16 63 53 8 8 132 11 Hsaw Mee Lu Htee Blaw Khi 50 142 139 23 17 321 12 Hsaw Mee Lu Ler Taw Lu 40 108 107 23 17 255 341 1,023 1,048 170 129 2,370
Rice: 7,500 kyat/tin (purchased in Kyaukgyi and Myaung Oo areas)CIDKP ERA Distribution Summary (Narrative)
Military operations:
2 June 2006 TOC Tun Naing (from Than Bo camp) ordered LIB-351 to attack both village tracts. Operations lasted 9 days.
11 February 2007 Troops returned to camp [unclear].
19 June 2007 LIB-590 troops conduct patrols in Hsaw Mee Lu Village Tract and fired on villagers on way to purchase rice in Ler Doh Town. 2 Hsaw Mee Lu villagers and 1 from Hgo Pu. Villagers fled and loss approximately 109,000 kyat in cash and five tins of rice.
25 June 2007 9 trucks arrived at Than Bo camp in preparation for patrols in the upland areas of the township.
25 July 2007 Troops [not specified] destroy 48 betel nut plants and 9 durian trees belonging to Saw Ker Hai from Hsaw Kar Der.
27 July 2007 Troops [not specified] shoot and kill Saw Eh Ka Mar Htoo from Ler Klar. Due to ongoing patrols, Total remain in hiding. 5 upland paddy farms (Hsaw Me Lu VT) and 3 (Hgo Pu) destroyed by weeds and animals.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 324
1 May – June 2007 11 armed engagements involving the KNLA and the SPDC.
Livelihood issues:
Total can purchase rice from neighboring villages, Ler Doh town (security permitting) and traders (sell in Bway Kho village). Once purchased Total hide the “new” rice in the jungle with the expectation that future attacks will occur. Food always divided and cached in multiple locations.
3-day walk (minimum) to Mone town or Mu Traw District to purchase rice.
2-3 people share one blanket in hiding sites.
KNLA help villagers sneak back to their paddy fields and orchards at night (where and when possible).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 325
Report Number CIKDP-2007-21
Date Submitted: 6 September 2007
Location: East of Mone town
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Yu Loe Ka Mu Loe
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 8 360 2,691
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-9, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-380, LIB-539 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a Military Operations Command n.a Light Infantry Division n.a Light Infantry Battalions n.a Infantry Battalions n.a Other n.a
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 326
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-438 Infantry Battalions IB-223 Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 327
CIDKP-2007-21 (Revised) ERA Request Summary 6 September 2007
Demographics:
2,691 people (360 households) from 8 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Maw Keh Tha, Per Kho, Yu Loe, Ka Mu Loe Village Tracts, Mone Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District).
East of Mone town, villagers cultivate betel nut, dog fruit, and cardamom.
Rationale:
LIB-380, LIB-539, MOC-16 deployed patrols, ordered several villages to relocate, cut down crops, imposed travel restrictions, and confiscated plantations.
30 March 2007 3 villages ordered to relocate to Tha Pye Nyunt village. Two months later, villagers bribed official (800,000 kyat), who permitted them to return.
15 June troops relocated 40 houses [households?] from 2 villages to Ma La Daw. Troops confiscated 4 acres of plantations and forced villagers to construct their houses there. 16 more acres seized and forced to replant with cashew trees. Total of 49 acres destroyed. Villagers forced to porter supplies twice/week with 50 villagers at a time. Failure to porter resulted in a 10,000 kyat fine.
10 August Troops ordered residents of the above 3 villages to relocate again. Property left behind either looted or destroyed. One villager robbed of 3 gold necklaces, 2 golden rings, 120 silver coins, and 1,000,000 kyat. 32 houses destroyed and 4 burnt. Troops extorted 2,900,000 kyat.
Villagers permitted to return to plantation sites once per every 10 days. Fruit damaged by pests and forest fire. 5,600 betel nut trees and 34 acres of cardamom destroyed.
Early June Troops re-imposed travel restrictions and told villagers that they “would be shot dead if someone found in plantations.”
25 July troops shot and killed a 27 year-old man.
25 July a porter killed that same day.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 328
ERA Request 6 September 2007
Background:
People in the affected village tracts depended on betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and lemon orchards prior to 1974-1975. The Four Cuts destroyed the orchards and nearly everyone fled as IDP, relying upon upland paddy cultivation for survival.
1997 offensive targeted paddy fields and livestock. People collected forest products to trade for rice.
Area is hilly with limited flat land. No roads. Traw Loe Klo (Mone) River runs from east to west and is not navigable in these village tracts. People can float bamboo, logs, etc. downstream.
Military Operations:
30 March 2006 MOC-16, led by Brig. Gen. Thet Oo, forced villagers in Yu Loe, Ka Moo Loe, and Ka Mu Hta village tracts to relocate to Tha Pye Nyunt. Two months later, they bribed an official (800,000 kyat) to permit them to return to their homes.
10 August MOC-16 Brig. General Thet Oo ordered them residents of Yu Loe and Ka Moo Loe Village Tracts to return to The Pye Nyunt. Troops did not permit them to gather their belongings this time. Property seized (see ERA summary) and 1,100,000 kyat from Saw Maung Tho, Saw Saw Lay, and Naw Mae Khin. Durians rotted as did rice in fields due to travel restrictions.
1 February 2007 troops [not specified] entered The Pye Nyunt and demanded 30 viss of pork, 40 viss of beef from Yu Loe and Ka Moo Loe villagers.
6 March MOC-9 Brig. Gen. Aung Kyaw Oo ordered villagers from Yu Loe and Ka Moo Loe [village tracts?] to porter bricks from The Pye Loe to Play Hsar Loe. It required 250 people over 4 days.
13 March MOC-9 troops forced 200 people from Yu Loe and Ma Moo Loe village tracts to carry bricks from Kyawt Gee Paught to Play Hsar Loe.
Forest fire during this period killed 5,600 betel nut trees and 34 acres of cardamom.
Maw Khe Tha Per Kho Village Tract
15 April 2006 MOC-16, led by Brig. Gen. Than Oo, entered the village tracts and imposed travel restrictions on residents of: Ter Kwen Lay Kho, Maw Ken Tha Per Kho, Maw Ko, Wah Kee, and Ma La Daw. They were not permitted to leave their villages and they had to supply bamboo and wood to build a military camp at the front of Ma La Daw Village (19 buildings total), construct bunkers, and start gardens. The task required 4 months.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 329
15 June Troops [not specified] forced 30 houses from Ter Kwe Lay Kho and 10 houses from Maw Keh Tha Per Kho to relocate to Ma La Daw Village. They also forced them to cut down 2 acres of betel nut and 2 acres of soy bean to clear a space for the Total to build new shelters.
20 January 2007 MOC-16, led by Brig. Gen. Than Oo, forced all of the villagers in the Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Village Tract to clean and cut grass at their camp. They also took over Naw Blut Paw’s betel nut orchard, had them cut down trees and plan Thee Ho mangoes in their place for the military. Troops extorted 3 acres of betel nut orchard, 5 acres of graves, and 5 acres paddy- field belonging to Saw K’Mwee Htoo and forced people to plant Thee Ho mangoes as well. Troops forced villagers in Ter Kwe Lay Kho and Maw Keh Tha Per Kho to cut down all of the coconut trees (32 total).
10 March MOC-16, Brig. Gen. Thet Oo, ordered the following villages in the Maw Keh Tha Per Kho Village Tract (Maw Keh Tha Per Kho, Ma Law Daw, Maw Ko, Wah Khi, and Ter Kwe Lay Kho) to relocate to a place known as Shwe Taw Jar [Kar?]. The villagers initially refused but eventually moved. 2 villagers per day had to serve as sentries for the military camp based there (6 am – 5 pm). They have to cut bamboo, make bamboo string, collect water, etc. whenever asked.
28 March villagers ordered to bring food to construct a road and carry 100 bags of rice to Saw Tay Der military camp, as well as 10 tons of petrol from Ma La Daw to Hter Pwa Pu camp. The troops in both camps forced people (approximately 50 people each time) to move military supplies twice per week, construct building and bunkers as well. The forced labor has led to increased food insecurity and financial instability (10,000 kyat to pay someone else to labor on your behalf).
June LIB-380, under MOC-9, based at Ka Mu Loe, places travel restrictions on residents of Yu Loe, Ka Mu Loe, and Maw Ker Tha Per Kho village tracts. Anyone “found in the orchards will be shot dead.” Durian, dog fruit, and betel nut rotted.
1 July LIB-380 demands 4 people/day from Yu Loe and Ka Mu Loe Villages to serve as messengers.
25 July LIB-539, led by officer Myo Win, killed one porter at Ma La Daw and, that same day, troops shot Saw Ta Kler (age 27) on sight when found in his durian orchard. No one else dared to sneak into their orchards afterwards.
Total documented losses: 4 houses, 32 orchards, 49 acres of plantations destroyed; 2 gold rings, 3 golden necklaces, 120 silver coins, and 2,900,000 kyat extorted by troops.
Rice: 12,000 kyat/tin in Mone Township.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 330
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tracts Village Households M F M F Total >5 >5 < 5 < 5 1 Maw Keh Tha Per Maw Keh Tha Per 98 316 314 39 44 713 Kho Kho 2 Maw Keh Tha Per Ma La Daw 35 117 103 15 11 246 Kho 3 Maw Keh Tha Per Ter Kwe Lay Kho 20 73 75 9 3 160 Kho 4 Maw Keh Tha Per Wah Khi 50 142 139 23 29 333 Kho 5 Maw Keh Tha Per Maw Kho 40 108 107 23 17 255 Kho 6 Yu Loe Yu Loe 81 312 295 34 37 678 7 Ka Mu Loe Ka Mu Loe 36 114 116 12 21 263 8 Ka Mu Loe Ka Mu Hta 15 55 54 12 9 130 375 1,237 1,203 167 171 2,778 Revised -15 -87 360 2,691
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 331
ERA Impact Assessment 25 August 2008
Market Impacts:
Mixed administration area. Some villagers purchased rice in Mone Town, while others went nearby villages. Average price: 12,000 kyat/tin. Increase due to macro-economic problems, not ERA.
Villagers sometimes forced to donate money to frontline troops, but this is normal practice and not connected with ERA.
Military Situation Update:
Closest camps:
IB-223 camp in Ma La Daw village, in Maw Keh Thar Per Kho Village Tract.
MOC/OCH-21 located in Tha Pyae Nyoe village, in Yu Loe and and Ka Mu Loe Village Tracts.
IB-438 located in Ka Mu Loe old village
Forced labor and travel restrictions common.
18 May 2008 IB-223, led by BC Ko Ko Aung, forced 180 villagers living in Maw Keh Thar Per Kho Village Tract to porter food to soldiers at Ma La Daw and Lay Day army camps. Porters had to travel for 5 days carrying loads of 20 viss plus their own food.
20 May BC Ko Ko Aung forced 55 villagers from Maw Keh Thar Per Kho Village Tract to repair their camp.
28 May BC Ko Ko Aung extorted money (700 kyat) from each household in every village in the Maw Khe Thar Per Kho Village Tract, ostensibly to help people affected by the typhoon.
21 June BC Ko Ko Aung, forced 193 people (130 men and 63 women) from Maw Keh Thar Per Kho to porter food from Ma La Daw to Yue Doe Ko. Women carried 15 viss and men 20 viss. All of them had to bring their own food. The trip took 4 days.
25 May MOC-21 Commander Ko Ko Lat permitted villagers from Yue Lo and Ka Mu Lo (relocated to Tha Pye Nyunt in 2006) to return to their village tracts 2 times / week. They were permitted to sleep one night only and need to obtain a travel pass beforehand (1,500 kyat). Everyone who did also had to carry food from the Tha Pye Nyunt camp to Ka Mu Loe camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 332
29 May MOC-21 Commander Ko Ko Lat ordered 30 men and 25 women from Yue Loe Village Tract as well as 20 men and 15 women in Ka Mu Loe to porter food from Tha Pye Nyunt to Play Hsa Loe camp. Men carried 20 viss and women 15 viss. Everyone had to bring their own food.
28 May MOC-21 Commander Ko Ko Lat extorted 7,000 kyat/household in Yue Loe and Ka Mu Loe Village Tracts for people affected by the cyclone.
25 June MOC-21 Commander Ko Ko Lat extorted 5,000 kyat/household from people in Yue Loe and Ka Mu Loe Village Tracts to buy a roof for a building in the military camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 333
Report Number KORD-2008-10
Date Submitted: 8 April 2008
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta Road and west of Lu Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khee Road
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Kheh Po Der Kyauk Phya Kwee Di Khaw Thae Baw Der Yaw Khee Saw Tay Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 16 341 2,330
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-9, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-237, LIB-374, LIB-375, LIB-377, LIB-590, LIB- 599 Infantry Battalions IB-267 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-320, LIB-374, LIB-375, LIB-387, LIB-607 Infantry Battalions IB-223 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 334
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Personsn.a.
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 335
KORD-2008-10 ERA Summary 8 April 2008
Demographics:
2,330 people (341 households) from 16 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Kheh Po Der, Kyauk Phya, Kwee Di Khaw, Thae Baw Der, Yaw Khee, and Saw Tay Der Village Tracts, Moo Township)
North of Kyaukgyi town and east of the Sittaung River. Highland and hillside paddy production with dog fruit, durian, betel nut, and cardamom gardens as main crops. Hiding area and villagers flee whenever troops approach.
Rationale:
IB-267 and LIB-237 (MOC-21) and LIB-374, LIB-375, and LIB-377 (MOC-9) and LIB-590 and LIB-599 (Strategic Command) conducted patrols from 1 December 2007 – 31 January 2008. Artillery attacks on villagers in hiding, the confiscation and destruction of food stocks, travel restrictions, and the planting of landmines.
1 December 2007 LIB-377 shot and killed a villagers at a jungle market where lowlanders and highlanders buy/sell and trade goods.
5 December LIB-374 fired mortars into the Kwee Di Khaw Village Tract. One villager was shot [hit?] and died on the spot. The rest fled into the forest.
Troops also targeted walking paths and markets. 13 January villager shot dead [not named] at a market place, for example. Actions created fear and dramatically reduced the number of people who tried to access betel nut gardens and markets during the harvest season.
10 houses burnt, 15 farm houses burnt, 600 baskets of paddy, 110 baskets of rice, 250 viss of betel nut, 25 viss of chili, 7 pigs, 32 chickens, and 5 goats either destroyed or lost during December and January patrols according to KORD documentation.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 336
KORD-2008-10 ERA Request 16 March 2008
General Description
Incidents occurred in the following areas: Kheh Po Der, Kyauk Phya, Kwee Di Khaw, Thae Baw Der, Yaw Khee, and Saw Thay Der Village Tracts, Mone (Moo) Township of Nyaunglebin (Kler Lwe Htu) District.
Areas located east of the Sittaung River (P’Reh Lo) in the highlands. Toungoo District is to the north and Papun District to the East.
Dates:
1 December – 31 January 2008
Military Units:
OCH-21: IB-267, LIB-237
OCH-9: LIB-377, LIB-374, and LIB-375 Patrolled: Kwee Di Khaw to Maw Keh Tha Per Kho areas
SCH: LIB-590 and LIB-599 Patrolled lowland and midland areas.
Background:
The affected region is a hiding area. “Whenever the SPDC come close, people are running away to be escape from the SPDC troops as they will be killed straight away if they were found.”
2006 offensive – some Total fled to Thailand, other remained. Those that did survive on a day- to-day basis. They are dependent on hillside paddy cultivation and cash crops (dog fruit, durian, betel nut, and cardamom). Some also trade or work as day laborers.
2007 patrols have prevented farming and gardening. Harvest much reduced as a result, only a sufficient amount for 2-3 months. Schools no longer operate as a result, and mobile health teams and KNU medical personnel in the township not able to provide care due to shortage of supplies and ongoing displacement.
Recent Military Operations:
SPDC camps are only 1-2 hour walk from IDP hiding places. Frequent patrols require them to flee into more remote areas on a regular basis, hence rising food insecurity.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 337
1 December LIB-377 entered Pay Paw Hta in Kwee Di Khaw Village Tract. The area is also used as an informal marketplace in addition to cultivation. Troops shot and killed one resident, Saw May Khay. The villagers fled and are afraid to return to their fields and the market place.
5 December LIB-374 entered Kwee Di Khaw Village Tract and took positions on a high hill. The fired mortars into Tae Na Hta, Gi Blay Hta, Nwah Lay Kho, Ler Wah Lu, and Saw Kher Khee villages. Saw Blu Nay Moo was killed. Villagers fled separately [in different directions]. The troops patrolled the area through the end of January 2008.
1st week of December IB-267 with OCH-21 commander entered Saw Tay Der, Thae Baw Der, Yaw Khee, Kheh Poh Der and Kyauk Phya Village Tracts and patrolled the areas surrounding the following villages: Say Tay Der, Yaw Khee, Phlay Khee, Phlay Pa, Ka Wa Kho, Phlay Khee, Kheh Po Der, Kyauk Phya, Ka Pa Hta, and Taw Phoe. LID-88, from Toungoo, also patrolled the Yaw Khee and Kheh Po Der Village Tracts through 20 January 2008.
All of the patrols sought to locate IDP hiding areas, hidden travel routes, and to block upland/lowland trade.
N.D. LIB-237, acting on OCH-21 commander’s orders, patrolled Yu Lo and Ka Mu Lo areas. Villagers from Saw Tay Der, Thae Baw Der, and Kheh Po Der Village Tracts often travel to both areas to buy and sell goods.
13 January LIB-237 troops captured and killed Yu Lo villager, Maung Kya Htoo. Market activity ceased as a result.
N.D. LIB-375, LIB-590, and LIB-599 patrolled lowland and midland areas around Maw Keh, Tha Per Kho, Ma Law Daw, and Wah Khee, which prevent villagers from buying and selling goods in markets. The harvest (betel leaves and nuts) badly affected; most of it was lost. Troops also planted landmines in area, which inhibited movement and ability to harvest their crops.
During the patrols SPDC patrols troops burnt 10 houses and fifteen paddy huts; seized or destroyed 600 baskets of paddy, 110 baskets of rice, 250 viss of betel nut, 25 viss of chilis, 7 pigs, 32 chickens, and 5 goats according to local sources.
KORD market assessment indicates that some of the affected Total are returning to the area and the number and frequency of the patrols declines. Most of them, however, are on the verge of having exhausted their food supplies, with most eating boiled rice [gruel]. Local KNU authorities is now able to provide security for Total to gather garden crops and sell for food in Wah Khee.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 338
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kheh Po Der Phlay Khee 43 275 2 Kheh Po Der Kheh Po Der 16 107 3 Kyauk Phya Kyauk Phya 15 79 4 Kyauk Phya Ka Pa Hta 17 114 5 Kyauk Phya Taw Phoe Khee 26 132 6 Kwee Di Khaw Nwah Lay Kho 43 253 7 Kwee Di Khaw Tae Na Hta 10 60 8 Kwee Di Khaw Gi Blay Hta 6 35 9 Kwee Di Khaw Ler Wah Lu 8 55 10 Kwee Di Khaw Saw Kher Khee 28 166 11 Thae Baw Der Ka Waw Kho 40 310 12 Thae Baw Der Thae Baw Der 15 113 13 Thae Baw Der Phlay Pa 22 185 14 Thae Baw Der Phlay Khee 26 258 15 Yaw Khee Yaw Khee 19 151 16 Saw Tay Der Saw Tay Der 7 37 341 2,330
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 339
ERA Distribution Summary 15 August 2008
Demographics:
ERA provided to 2,330 people (341 HH) from 16 villages. Beneficiaries: 47% female and 53% males. About 17% of these were less than 5 years of age.
Livelihoods:
Hiding area and population displaced multiple times.
“Morale among villagers is quite low as SPDC patrols continually interrupt education and livelihood opportunities.”
Situation Update:
Villagers had to flee 2-3 times due to patrol between the time of the ERA request and the ERA distribution. Crickets have also damaged the crops by eating the plant roots.
Situation Update:
Area not yet under SPDC control. Villagers continue to flee when patrols approach. Most Total had to flee 2 times and some 3 times from date of ERA request to ERA distribution due to patrols and troop rotations.
Dry season operations intended to destroy food sources, as per usual. Crops destroyed by animals and insects (like crickets), which ate the roots. The plants turned yellow and dried up. They re- sowed the fields, but too late and did not grow properly.
Total able to purchase rice in Wah Khee with the assistance of local authorities, who then ask people in SPDC-controlled areas to meet them is predetermined times/places.
SPDC troops based in distribution area:
LIB-320: Waw Doh Kho LIB-387: Htee Ler Baw Hta LIB-601: Poe Roe Kyo IB-223: Ma Law Daw LIB-374: Regular patrols in Kwee Dee Khaw area LIB-375: Regular patrols in Kwee Dee Khaw area
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 340
Report Number CIDKP-2008-05
Date Submitted: 4 April 2007
Location: East of Sittaung River, closer to Mone Town than Kyaukgyi Town.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Myaung Oo
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 3 346 2,623
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-590 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 341
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 342
CIDKP-2008-05 ERA Request Summary 4 April 2007
Demographics:
2,623 people (346 households) from 3 villages, Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Myaung Oo Village Tract, Mone Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District). 240 children under 5 (118 boys and 122 girls), 1,222 females and 1,161 males over 5.
Mixed administration area; East of Sittaung River, closer to Mone Town than Kyaukgyi.
Rationale:
7 August 2007 onwards LIB-590 forced 75 people from 2 villages to cut bamboo and logs for their base over 17 days. Troops forced 100 people from 2 other villages to do similar work for 13 days later that month.
10 August LIB-590 burnt 230 paddy farms on the grounds that KNLA troops were hiding in the area. Travel restrictions imposed and were warned that they would be “shot-on-sight” if found in the fields. Pests and flooding destroyed crops in 170 acres that would have produced 17,000 tins of paddy.
30 August Skirmish with KNLA prompted troops to arrest 33 villagers. They were detained until 4 villages paid a total of 12,000,000 kyat for their release.
September troops eased travel restrictions somewhat; villagers had to pay 500 kyat/day for passes (good for 3 days).
4 September LIB-590 entered Aung Chan Thar Village and extorted 2,500,000 kyat, 10 tins of rice, and 1 tin of cooking oil. During the above period, LIB-590 troops also extorted 12,000,000 kyat in lieu of conscripting 2 people/village into the army and another 2 people/village into the militia.
January 2008 LIB-599 extorted 50 baskets of paddy, 1,500 bamboo poles, and 50 wooden longs for the Thit Cha Seik and Maw Lay military camps.
February Troops [not specified] forced 15 people from each village to provide labor to construct a new camp at Haw Kho Gaw.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 343
Background and Livelihood:
Area under complete KNU control prior to 1974-1975. Villages destroyed or forced to relocate during Four Cuts campaign.
Paddy with some betel nut/leaf, durian and groundnuts. Some wage day labor (collecting fruit, firewood, etc.) and small trading. Most people did not dare to travel in the jungle when patrols are in the area.
Forced labor, extortion, etc. common. People forced to sell property if they lack the cash.
Military Operations:
7 August 2007 LIB-590, led by Sergeant Myo Oo, based in Mee Daing Taw, demanded 75 villagers from Kyauk Tar and Aung Chang Tha to travel to the hills, cut and then transport back bamboo poles and logs. Materials used to build 1 store and 2 guesthouses at the Myaung Oo military camp. The task took 17 days.
14 August Sergeant Tin Win Aung, LIB-590, demanded 100 villagers from Kyauk Tar and Myaung Oo, to do the same. Villagers had to bring their own food. The task took 13 days.
10 August LIB-590, led by BC Maung Maung Tin, ordered troops to burn down all farmhouses in the area (230 total) to prevent the KNLA from using them. Travel restrictions imposed and villagers told that if they go to their paddy fields, “if found will be shot and killed.” 170 acres of paddy destroyed due to pests and floods. One acre would produce about 100 tines of paddy here.
20 August, LIB-590 troops, led by Sergeant Hla Myo Oo, ordered villages to provide 2 recruits for the army and 2 for the militia. Fine for failure to do so: 1,000,000 kyat/person, former, and 500,000 kyat/person, latter. The 4 villages raised 12,000,000 kyat by selling property (cattle, pig, land) to pay fine.
30 August KNLA-SPDC clash between Myaung Oo and Aung Chan Tha Villages. 1 lance corporeal and 1 private killed, and 1 second warrant officer wounded. LIB-590 troops arrested 13 villages from Myaung Oo, 10 from Aung Chan Tha, 6 from Kyauk Tar, and 4 from Khaung Su. Troops said they would kill the villagers unless others paid for their release. Troops extorted: 650,000 kyat from Myaung Oo (13 people), 500,000 from Aung Chan Tha (10 people), 300,000 from Kyauk Tar (6 people), 200,000 from Khaung Su (4 people). Released on 6 September.
1 September LIB-590 permits villagers to go to their fields with a pass (500 kyat for 3 days).
4 September LIB-590, 15 soldiers, led by Sergeant Hla Myo Oo, entered Aung Chan Thar Village and extorted 2,500,000 kyat, 10 tins of rice, and 1 tin of cooking oil from the village head. The villagers collected and provide the materials demanded.
4 September LIB-599, led by BC Tin Bo Aung, imposed travel restrictions on gathering bamboo, logs, charcoal production, etc., which has an adverse impact on income.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 344
Update in resubmission
12 January LIB-599 demanded 50 baskets of paddy and villagers to porter to Thit Cha Seik camp.
13 January LIB-599 demands 1,500 pieces of bamboo and 50 logs; villagers send to Maw Lay camp.
6 February LIB-599, from Leh Pa Camp, moved to Haw Kho Gaw. Villages from 4 village tracts (Leh Pa, Wei Gyi, Haw Kho Gaw, and Myaung Oo) forced to build the new camp. People had to carry own food and tools. 15 people per village/day had to until completed. [Labor ongoing as of report date.]
27 February Tactical Commander, Khin Maung Oo, from Kyaukgyi Town, held meeting with all of the village heads and secretaries in the area. All villagers 18 and older had to vote in the referendum in May. Any one absent would be fined 200,000 kyat.
2 March 2008 Troops, not specified, demanded property from 5 villages. People had to sell property, cattle, and/or provide labor on plantations to cover the quota: Myaung Oo (5 oxen plus parts of homes), Aung Chan Tha (4 oxen and 5 buffaloes); Khaung Su (7 oxen and 2 buffaloes), and Upper and Lower Kyauk Tar (3 oxen and 2 buffaloes).
Villages and People Affected (Revised Submission)
No. Village Tract Households F>5 M>5 F<5 M<5 Total 1 Myaung Oo 85 305 294 31 44 674 2 Myaung Oo 147 552 518 60 48 1,178 3 Myaung Oo 114 365 349 31 26 771
346 1,222 1,161 122 118 2,623
12,000 kyat/tin in Mone Town and Myaung Oo area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 345
ERA Distribution Summary 1 September 008
Demographics:
Distributed as per original request (51% female, 49% male, < 10% under 5).
Logistics:
1 May 2008 depart and 23 July return (83 days).
Early April 2008 LIB-590, BC Ko Ko Oo, orders villagers age 18 and over in Myaung Oo Village Tract to vote yes for the referendum or be fined 100,000 kyat [see earlier order ERA request].
24 April KNLA attacked LIB-590 in eastern Khaung Su. 1 SPDC soldier killed, another wounded. BC Ko Ko Oo blamed nearby village for attack and extorted 250,000 kyat. Military Operations Update:
15 June 2008 KNLA 8th Battalion ambushes SPDC troops at camp at old Maw Pu Village. 4 SPDC troops killed, 2 wounded. No KNLA casualties.
22 June [2 days after ERA distribution] SPDC troops approach area and ambushed by KNLA 8th Battalion troops at Ma Yan Gone. 2 SPDC troops killed, no KNLA casualties.
26 June SPDC troops open fire on KNLA 8th Battalion between Pau Ro Soe and War Doh Kho while travelling to ERA area. One SPDC soldier killed, no KNLA casualties.
28 June Firefight at Kwee Day Baw during an SPDC patrol. One SPDC soldier wounded.
ERA distribution conducted between SPDC positions. Radio transmitter used to coordinate with village heads to meet at a fixed distribution point (no walkie-talkies). Total were not told the location in advance.
Floods further delayed distribution. On one occasion had to wait 2-3 days for water to go down.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 346
Military Operations Update:
Myaung Oo Village Tract
5 April 2008 LIB-590, led by BC Ko Ko Oo, ordered “yes vote” (as previously reported).
10 April LIB-590, BC Ko Ko Oo, “not vote” will be fined 100,000 and jailed for 3 years. He extorted travel and food expenses during his trip across the village tract announce the order, collecting 1,000 kyat/household.
24 April KNLA attack in eastern Khuang Su, about 1 mile from the village, resulted in 1 SPDC dead and 1 SPDC wounded. The BC blamed the villagers, fining them 250,000 kyat. 4 May LIB-599, BC Tin Bo Aung, demanded 140 villagers from Myaung Oo to porter military supplies from Ye O’sin to Kwee De Kaw camp. They had to bring their own food and the journey took 4 days.
26 May LIB-590, BC Ko Ko Oo, ordered villagers in the Myaung Oo Village Tract to pay 7,000 kyat/households to help Nargis cyclone victims in th delta area
18 June LIB-590, Camp Commander Tun Ngwe, staying near Myaung Oo, demanded 150,000 kyat from Khaung Su and Aung Chan Tha, as well as 125,000 kyat from Myaung Oo.
Myet Yeh Village Tract
11 April and 10 May May LIB-590, BC Ko Ko Oo, and troops patrolled through Myet Yeh, Ng Lout Tae, and Kyaung Pa villagers and ordered them to vote “yes” on the referendum or be fined 100,000 kyat/person and jailed for 3 years.
14 April LIB-599 and LIB-590, led by BC Ko Ko Oo, arrested 5 villagers at their paddy hut in Myet Yeh: 1) Saw Ma Pi, 2) Saw Hto Lwei, 3) Saw Ta Ti Tu, 4) Saw Ri Wah, 5) Maw Kyi Win. They accused them of meeting with the KNU, beat them, and demanded 10,000 kyat/person and 2 viss of dried fish. They released the villagers after receiving money/dried fish.
15 May LIB-599, BC Tin Bo Aung, demanded 1,800,000 kyat from Myet Yeh, Ng Lout Tae, Kyaung Pa, Ter Pau, and Pho Thaung Su to buy a motorcycle. He gave them 20 days to pay.
26 May LIB-590, BC Ko Ko Oo, forced villagers in the plain areas, including Myet Yet Village Tract, to pay 8,000 kyat/household to help cyclone Nargis victims. Villages also have to pay 1,500 kyat/month to the village head to cover expenses when SPDC troops come to the village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 347
Report Number CIDKP-2008-06
Date Submitted: 4 April 2008
Location: East of Sittaung River, closer to Kyaukgyi Town than Mone Town.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Mu Myet Yeh
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 4 310 2,123
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-590, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 348
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 349
CIDKP-2008-06 (Revised) ERA Summary 4 April 2008
Demographics:
2,123 people (310 households), 4 villages in Kyaukgyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU refers to this area as Myet Yeh Village Tract, Mone Township, Kler Lwe Htoo District). Includes 236 children (110 girls and 126 boys) under five years old, and 809 femals and 1,076 males over five years old.
Mixed administration area, east of Sittaung River, closer to Kyaukgyi Town than Mone Town. When villagers have some cash they can access nearby markets. Land owners typically grow paddy, betel nut, and durian. Landless villagers typically work as daily wage laborers. Foraging in the jungle is dangerous in this area due to SPDC activities. Forced labor, extortion, intimidation, and fighting occur regularly in the area.
Rationale:
LIB-599 and LIB-590, based in Kyaukgyi Town, have been patrolling in that area and [mis] treating villagers by forced labor, burning farm huts, arbitrary arrests, killing, and restricting traveling.
In retaliation for a skirmish with KNLA, LIB-599 detained 11 civilians from 2 villages and threatened to imprison them for 10 years until 1.1 million kyat was extorted for their release.
6-7-2008 LIB-599 forced 215 villagers to carry food supplies and build military camps for 12 days.
10-8-2008 LIB-599 burnt 130 farm huts for allegedly being rest sites for KNLA troops.
1-9-2008 2 villagers were shot dead by LIB-599 while working their paddy fields after SPDC had prohibited travel to them. 172 acres of paddy fields were destroyed or otherwise flooded across 3 villages due to that order. After the killing, SPDC LIB-590 started issuing 3 day-pass with 500 kyat charge/day to regulate villagers going to their paddy fields.
Since August, LIB-590 extorted 5 million kyat in lieu of conscripting 2 people per village into the army and another 2 people per village into a local militia group. Villagers were obliged to sell livestock in order to meet the demands.
In January and February, LIB-599 demanded 12 logs, 4,000 shingles of roofing thatch, and 190 porters to carry supplies to Ye O’Sin military camp.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 350
Background and Livelihood:
Myet Yeh Village Tract is a mixed administration area. Before 1974-1975, this village tract was under the absolute control of KNU. But after 1974-1975, the Burma army practiced major operations known as Four Cut campaign. Villages were destroyed or ordered to relocate.
Villagers grow paddy for main stable food, some people do betel nut, betel leaf, durian and groundnuts. For those who don’t have paddy field or gardens, they work as way labor, collecting seasonal foods (dog fruit, bamboo shoots, …) and sell back to buy rice, salt, etc.
Military operations:
26-7-07 LIB-599 demanded labor from this village tract, 30 from Myet Yeh Village, 40 from Ng Lout Tae, 100 from Kyaung Pya section no. 1, and 45 from Kyaung Pya section no. 2. Villagers had to bring food for 12 days to Toe Taung military camp and then build a fence around it. They were released on 18-8-07.
29-7-07 Armed clash between KNLA and Burma Army near Myet Yeh Village. One Burma army soldier killed and 2 wounded.
30-7-07 LIB-599 Battalion Commander Tin Bo Aung said villagers from this village trcts assisted the KNLA and he demanded 350,000 kyat from Myet Yeh. 5 villagers from Ng Lout Tae accused of providing KNLA intelligence, and informed that they will be sentenced from 10 years in prison up to the death sentence if they don’t pay 100,000 kyat per person. Villagers paid 1,100,000 kyat on 9-8-07 to secure their release.
10-8-07 LIB-590 Battalion Commander Maung Maung Tin ordered troops to burn down all the farm houses which have roofs. 15 farm houses from Myet Yeh, 23 farm houses from Ng Lout Tae, 73 farm houses from Kyaung Pya section no. 1, and 19 farm houses from Kyaung Pya section no. 2 were burnt down. Burma army said if there are farm houses, KNU will comes and stay there and shoot them, so they had to be burnt down.
20-8-07 LIB-590 ordered villagers to send people to serve in army and people’s militia. Each village (Myet Yeh, Ng Lout Tae, Kyaung Pya section no. 1 and Kyaung Pya section no. 2) required to send 1 person to the army and 2 people for the militia. Villages could pay 1,000,000 kyat to avoid the army and 500,000 kyat for the people’s militia. Villages sold pigs, cattle, land, etc. and paid 5,000,000 kyat.
1-9-07 LIB-599 issues order that anyone found in fields will be shot and killed. LIB-599 Sergeant Hla Shwe shot and killed 2 villagers working in the paddy field in Kayung Pya. They were Saw Htoo Win (40) and Saw Sein Lwin (43).
1-9-07 LIB-590 issues order permitting villagers to work in their paddy fields provided they have a three-day pass (500 kyat). New passes are required once the old one expires.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 351
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M >5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Myet Yeh Myet Yeh 35 163 135 31 12 349 2 Myet Yeh Ng Lout Tae 49 211 192 25 12 440 3 Myet Yeh Kyaung Pya section 1 176 562 343 47 61 1,013 4 Myet Yeh Kyaung Pya section 2 50 142 139 23 17 321 310 1,078 809 126 110 2,123
Price 1 tin of rice, 12,000 kyat, and can be purchased in Mone Town and Myaung Oo area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 352
ERA Distribution Summary 1 September 2008
Situation Update:
14 April 2008 LIB-590 and LIB-599 arrested 5 villagers at their “pound hut” [where paddy hulls are removed by pounding]. Villagers beaten and fined 10,000 kyat/person and 2 viss of dried fish. Villagers released after payment.
15 June 2008 Burma army camp ambushed by KNLA troops from battalion no. 8 at Old Maw Village. 2 soldiers killed and 2 wounded. No KNLA casualties.
26 June 2008 Burma soldiers entered the distribution areas, and KNLA battalion no. 8 troops ambushed them at Ma Yan Gone. 2 Burma soldiers killed and one was wounded. No KNLA casualties.
28 June 2008 Armed clash between Burma army and KNLA at Kwee Day Bay while on patrol. One Burma army soldier wounded.
Human Rights Update:
Myaung Oo Village Tract
5 April 2008 LIB-590 Battalion Commander Ko Ko Oo and troops entered Myaung Oo Village Tract and instructed everyone who was over 18 years to vote for the referendum. No votes will be fined 100,000 kyat and jailed for 3 years. Troops collected traveling expenses and food expenses from villagers. Each household had to pay 1,000 kyat.
26 April 2008 KNLA attacked LIB-590 troops in eastern Khaung, Su, about one mile from the village. One soldier killed and one wounded. Battalion Commander Ko Ko Oo blamed the villages and fined them 250,000 kyat.
4 May 2008 LIB-599 Battalion Commander demanded 140 villagers from Myaung Oo to porter military supplies from Ye O’Sin to Kwee De Kaw camp. Villagers had to bring their own food and [the portering] lasted 4 days.
26 May 2008 LIB-590 Camp Commander Tun Ngwe demanded 150,000 kyat from Khaung Su and Aung Chan Tha, and 125,000 kyat from Myaung Oo Villages.
Myet Yeh Village Tract
14 April 2008 LIB-599 and LIB-590 combined troops, led by Battalion Commander Ko Ko Oo arrested villagers at their pound hut in Myet Yeh: Saw Maw Pi Taw, Saw Hto Lwei, Saw Ta Ti Tu, Saw Ri Wah, and Maw Kyin Win. Burma army said, “you had understanding with KNI so you could come and stay in the pound hut. It is to go against the state.” They were beaten and
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 353
demanded 10,000 kyat/person and 2 viss of dry fish. The 5 villagers were released after payment, but were forbidden from returning to the hut.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 354
Appendix C Kyaukkyi Township (Nyaunglebin District, Bago Region)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 355
Report Number KORD-2006-02
Date Submitted: 1 February 2006
Location: West of Kyaukkyi – Shwegyin Rd., east of Sittaung River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htu Ler Doh Pa Ta Lah Pa Deh Gaung Wae La Daw
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 8 510 3,472
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-33 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-342, LIB-351, LIB-589 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-240, LIB-349, LIB-350, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB- 368, LIB-439, LIB-522, LIB-567 Infantry Battalions IB-68, IB-69 Other KNDO
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 356
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 357
KORD-2006-02 ERA Summary 1 February 2005
Demographics:
3,472 people (510 households) from 8 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htu District).
Location: Mixed administration area west of the Kyaukkyi – Shwe Gyin Road and east of the Sittaung River. [South of Mone, southwest of Mu Traw, and slightly north west of Papun].
Livelihoods: 45% wet rice farming, 30% gardening, 25% day laborers.
Rationale:
LIB-351 and LIB-589 of Division 33 and IB-60 of Military Command 2 (Southern Command), and LIB-342 deployed to area 1 December 2005 and conducted operations through 15 January 2006.
Troops ordered villagers not to go to their fields. Landmines laid in commonly used areas. Paddy, sesame, peanut, and sugarcane gardens left untended and quickly destroyed by pests prior to harvest. Some paddy collection prior to travel ban.
LIB-589 required each village to send 2 people/day to rebuild army camps and repair the roads.
Estimated food losses: 25,000 baskets of rice from 210 farms and 136 gardens (equivalent to one year’s rice supply for 1,300 people). Villagers currently borrowing rice from neighboring villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 358
ERA Request 26 January 2006
General Description:
Pa Ta Lah, Pa Deh Gaung, and Wae La Daw Village Tracts along the Kyaukkyi – Shwe Gyin Road in Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htu District, affected (1 December – 15 January 2006).
Military Units and Commanders:
Division 33 LIB-351, under BC Nan Da, based in Nant Than Gwin LIB-589, under BC Aung Myint, based in To Thay Phu
Military Command 2 (under Southern Command) IB-60, under BC Khin Maung Myint Oo and 2nd BC Han Win Aung, baed in Kyaukkyi and Thanbo [respectively?].
IB-439, under BC Zaw Htun, based in Pin Za Lo Company 1, based in Baw Ka Hta Company 2, based in No Ku Company 3, based in Nat Than Gwin
Incidents Documented:
The affected village tracts are located in midland area and it is a mixed-administration area. “People in the area are always facing with many kinds of persecutions made by the SPDC troops.”
Beginning 1 December 2005 IB-60 and LIB-349 troops imposed travel restrictions along the area surrounding the road. They also banned villages from Pa Ta Lah, Wae La Daw, and Pa Deh Gaung Village Tracts from travelling to their farms, gardens, etc. for any reason. Troops laid landmines and conducted spot checks to ensure compliance with the ban.
3 December troops [not specified] shot at a Taw Kho villager, Saw [Name Redacted], who was travelling to his garden. He was not wounded and escaped. These same troops shot and killed a buffalo belonging to an unmade Paw Law Bler villager.
Troops also prevented villagers from finishing threshing rice and collecting seeds to store in barns and safe places. Exposed seeds eaten by animals, esp. cattle and buffalo.
Sesame, groundnuts, and sugar cane similarly destroyed. LIB-351 and LIB-589 began conducting patrols along the eastern side of the road at this time as well. Troops regularly conducted “ambushes” and this effected people whose livelihoods depend upon collecting firewood, bamboo, sugar cane, fishing, and other “day-to-day” labor.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 359
5 December LIB-589, based in To Thay Phu, called a meeting with villages located on / near the car road. They forced villagers to clear the road, construct/repair sections, and to rebuild their army camps. Two people per village also required to be on “stand-by” to perform whatever tasks the troops wanted.
10 December troops [not specified] relaxed the travel ban a little, permitting people to work their fields and gardens during the daytime, but not overnight stays.
According to KORD estimates: 25,000 baskets of paddy from 210 farms and 136 gardens in the 8 affected villages in the 4 village tracts destroyed or lost. The team has not yet been able to assess total losses, including personal property, which Total had to abandon.
SPDC conducted regular patrols over this 6 week period, and continuously checked up on the movements / whereabouts of villagers during the day and night. Restrictions lessened in mid- January and troops no longer so consistent in checking times and places.
Affected populations barely subsisting due to restrictions. They are dependent on foraging for forest foods and borrowing rice.
Goals: 1) to cut communication and support between KNU and villagers as well as upland and lowland populations; and 2) expand military communications and transportation routs to conduct operations more easily.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 360
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Pa Ta Lah Pa Ta Lah 82 431 2 Pa Ta Lah Taw Kho 50 392 3 Pa Ta Lah Paw Aw Taw 46 329 4 Pa Ta Lah Hi Pho Der 49 353 5 Wae La Daw Plaw Law Bler 137 1,060 6 Pa Deh Guang Pa Deh Gaung 60 337 7 Pa Deh Guang Shwe Tah 42 212 8 Pa Deh Guang Kaw Tha Say 89 541 9 Pa Deh Guang Hswe Tay 37 248 10 Pa Deh Guang Neh Yoo 75 382 667 4,285
People in Urgent Need of ERA
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Pa Ta Lah Taw Kho 50 392 2 Pa Ta Lah Pa Aw Taw 46 329 3 Pa Ta Lah Hi Pho Der 49 353 4 Wae La Daw Plaw Law Bler 137 1,060 5 Pa Deh Gaung Pa Deh Gaung 60 337 6 Pa Deh Gaung Shwe Tah 42 212 7 Pa Deh Gaung Kaw Tha Say 89 541 8 Pa Deh Gaung Hswe Tay 37 248 510 3,472
ERA distribution trip expected to last 45 days.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 361
ERA Distribution Summary 17 May 2006
Demographics:
Assistance provided to 3,472 people (510 households) from 8 villages as requested.
Logistics:
5 March departure and return on 18 April (44 days).
Livelihoods:
Hillside cultivation currently the only reliable food source (rice, pumpkin, cucumber, beans). Due to landmines people do not dare to do too much foraging in the forest. People near the road can sell some firewood (small-scale logging), and there is some gold mining [panning] in the area.
Military Update:
8 villagers shot or killed and 3 injured during March alone. 1 villager accused of being a KNU sympathizer, tortured, and then arrested. People paid 12,000 kyat to the troops for his release.
Forced relocations and forced labor reported.
17 firefights involving SPDC and KNLA troops in March alone. Field staff spent significant time avoiding SPDC patrols during the trip.
10 March local KNLA Battalion 9 and LIB-362 and LIB-363 engage in firefight in Ler Doh Township.
11 March Local intelligence indicates that OCH-16 (Sa Kha Kha) arrived in area and they are patrolling Doh Daw Khee and Ta Gaw Khee Villages. Fighting between the aforementioned troops took place in Ta Kaw Hta and Khaw Htee Khee Villages that day.
12 March KNLA Battalion 8 and LIB-362 and LIB-363 engage in Moo Township once.
13 March meeting with FTUK, KWO, and G-3 from Central HQ District Office regarding trip.
14 March Discussed with local officials SPDC patrols and Aye Mya Pyi Zone gold mining the company set up in Hsaw Hti Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.
15 March fighting reported along the Tha Phay Khone and Kyweh Chan Road.
16 March another meeting regarding gold operations. District Chairman explained that he had met with some representatives of the company.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 362
17 March KNDO Battalion 3 Commander reports that between 6-17 March, 17 battles took place between local KNLA and SPDC: LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-240, and LIB-350.
Affected Led Doh Township villages include: Khaw Htaw Khee, Lu Plaw, Mu Khee, Tu Gaw Pho, Thaw Ngeh Der, Ta Kaw Der, U Kheh Khee, Kheh Der, Htee Nya P’day Khee, Doh Daw Khee, Day Baw Khee, Htee Law Khee, Gho Lu, Ler Wah, Paw Ler Kho, and Per Pho Khee (16 total).
Affected Moo Township villages include: Saw Kha Der, Ler Kler, Maw Pu, Naw Law Deh Pwa, Klaw Khee, Ta Gaw Pu, Htee Gho, Hsaw Khee, Ngwa Khee, Haw Kho Dreh, and Htee Ler Baw Hta (11 total).
19-23 March further meetings, photo documentation, and travel through abandoned villages, interviewed Total.
23 Meeting with township joint secretary to discuss landmines laid on paths and hillside farms. One villager, [Name Redacted], from Day Haw Khee Village, stepped on a mine and lost his leg.
Situation Update:
Kler Lwe Htu inhabitants rely upon upland rice and vegetables (long bean, taro, yam, cucumber, pumpkin, gourds, etc.) as well as some wild ones if travel possible. Patrols and landmines make this difficult.
Date rates: pushing bullock carts with logs (1,500 kyat), gold mining (women 800 kyat and men 1,000), portering goods between Ler Doh Town and place of residence (1,000 kyat per trip).
Camps in area:
LIB-349, led by BC Hang Win Aung (camp leader), based in Kyung Kyi, and coordinates militias.
LIB-349, 2nd BC Aung Htay Win, based at Htide Htu.
LIB-439 and LIB-598, led by BC Zaw Tun, based at Baw Ka Hta.
LIB-439 Company 1, led by Commander Myint Thein Aung, based at Ho Wah/Yan Myo Aung.
LIB-240, under OCH-16 (Sa Ka Kha), based in Kyauk Lone Kyi.
Note: The patrols rarely did not “introduce themselves to the local villagers,” and some of the officers rotated out during this period, so some of the names many no longer be current.
9 March LIB-362 and LIB-363 (OCH-10) enter Kheh Der Village Tract and began regular patrols.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 363
9 March LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-368 (Operational Control Headquarters [16?]) burnt down 12 houses in Klaw Khee Village, including Saw [Name Redacted] paddy barn (38 baskets) and Saw [Name Redacted] paddy barn (45 baskets). Later that day, these battalions burnt down Haw Lah Khee Village (7 houses).
14 March 2006 LIB-439, led by officer Han Sein, with 40 soldiers, began patrols in Baw Ka Hta. IB-68, IB-69, and LIB-240 (OCH-16) and its Military Tactical Command 1 entered Kler Lwi Htu District and camped overnight at an abandoned village: Htee Law Law.
15 March IB-68, IB-69, and LIB-240 traveled to Bway Hta.
16 March IB-68, IB-69, and LIB-240 divided into 2 groups.
17 March LIB-240 traveled to Hto Ta Dar while IB-68 and IB-69 entered Kwee Lah.
18-19 March IB-68 and IB-69 entered Kler Lwi Htu District and patrolled the area where KNLA Battalion 9 operates. LIB-240 begins to construct a military camp in Kyauk Lone Kyi (in KNLA territory).
26 March LIB-439 burnt 5 houses in Kwee Doh Kho Village belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] and his family. Troops killed and ate all of the goats, chickens, and pigs.
Killings: n.d. March LIB-349, led by BC Aung Htay Win, shot and killed Pa Ta Lah Villager, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 33), at Htee Kay Klo. The troops buried his body in secret. However, a villager found the grave the following day.
27 March LIB-240, LIB-522, and LIB-567 (OCH-16) entered Kyauk Pyar Village Tract and opened fire on Htee Day Khee villagers. Two unidentified villagers killed and one wounded.
7 April LIB-240, LIB-522, and LIB-567 (OCH-16) opened fire at Ka Mu Lo villagers while they were fishing at Wah Blaw Blow area. One person killed and another wounded. The same troops shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] and his mother in the Htee Nay Khee region. At 5:30 pm these troops shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted] at Htee Tho Hta Village.
Torture:
Interview date: 7 April 2006 Name: [Name Redacted] Age: 40 Village: Reh Kaw Pho VT: Kaw Tha Say Township: Ler Doh
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 364
District: Kler Lwi Hti
March 2006 LIB-349, led by BC Han Sein, instructed Saw [Name Redacted] to seize [Name Redacted] and bring him to Baw Ka Hta camp. Han Sein accused him of collecting taxes for the KNU and providing them with information. They tied him up for 2 days and then put him in lock-up for 9 more days, after which the interrogations began. Questioned regarding KNU leader, battalion, and strength. He was slapped in the face, kicked in the left side with jungle boots, and beat [punched] his chest with fists. He was not able to eat due to the pain. The village headman lent him 12,000 kyat to bribe Han Sein to secure his release. Han Sein required [Name Redacted] to sign a paper acknowledging he would be killed if he told anyone about the torture or the bribe.
Forced Relocations:
LIB-439, led by 2nd BC Aung Htay Win, based at Htah Htoo military camp, ordered 21 villages in 5 village tracts in Ler Doh Township to relocate close to Hta Htoo camp (Noh Pu region). The villagers also had to move at least half of the houses from each village [i.e. dissemble and then reassemble]. The villages affected: 1) Pah Ta Lah, 2) Hi Pho Der, 3) Kyar Inn, 4) Taw Kho, 5) Htay Paw, 6) Aye Neh, 7) Kyo Gone, 8) Weh Lah Kyi, 9) Ta Ri Hsi Law, 10) Nayung Tan, 11) Nyaung Gone, 12) Wai Lah Tah, 13) Dar K’ler, 14) Hta Htoo, 15) Saw Mu Tha, 16) Noh Gaw, 17) Thu K’bi, 18) Noh Poe, 19) Ma Thaw Gone, 20) Htaw Lu Kho, 21) Pa Na Ner.
20 March relocations were underway. The commander warned that anyone who doesn’t comply with be punished and fined.
31 March 60 houses completely built. 2 villagers forced to carry out tasks in the camp and 2 to perform guard duty outside of it per day (4 total).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 365
Report Number KORD-2006-06
Date Submitted: 28 April 2006
Location: South of Mu Theh and the Kyaukkyi – Saw Hta Rd., South of Kyaukkyi Town.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htu Ler Doh Kheh Der Kwee Lah Ma U Bin
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 27 472 3,664
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-366, LIB-439 Infantry Battalions IB-57, IB-68, IB-69, IB-240 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-16, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-366, LIB-439, LIB-602 Infantry Battalions IB-56, IB-68, IB-69, IB-223, IB-240 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 366
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-16, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division LID-33 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-57, LIB-323, LIB-351, LIB-387, LBI-589, LIB- 601, LIB-602 Infantry Battalions IB-57, IB-60 Other TOC-2
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 367
KORD-2006-06 ERA Request Summary 28 April 2006
Demographics:
3,664 people (472 households) from 27 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htu District).
Most of the villages are located in Khehe Der and Kwee Lah Village Tracts, upland areas south of the Mutheh and the Kyaukkyi – Saw Hta Road. 3 of the villages are in the Ma U Bin Village Tract, in lowland areas along the Sittaung River, 10 km south of Kyaukkyi. Upland areas are hiding areas while lowland ones are mixed administration.
Rationale:
6 March 2006 LIB-362, LIB-363, and LIB-366 (Under MOC-10) combined with IB-240, IB-68, and IB-69 (Under MOC-16), total strength approximately 500 soldiers, left Mutheh camp, divided into 3 groups, and conducted patrols in the highland areas for 8 weeks.
Due to the patrols, villagers abandoned more than 5,000 baskets of paddy and 357 tins of rice. People fled to Ler Wah, Ta Pgaw Kay Kho, Do To Lay, and Htee Law Khee. Troops destroyed food supplies in the abandoned settlements. Losses equivalent to 2-month rice supply for 1,900 people.
8 March LIB-366 troops shot and killed 2 villagers (man age 50 and his son age 14) at Paw Kaw Khee Village. Another villager, forced to porter supplies, was seriously wounded during a clash with KNLA troops on 11 March.
Troops laid landmines upon their departure to prevent Total from returning. 2 villagers lost their legs on 18 and 21 March, respectively. [Saw [Name Redacted] (38) of Mu Khee Village and Saw [Name Redacted] (40) of Day Baw Khee Village.]
Following 10 days of patrols, IB-240 established a new base camp and forced 43 people from 3 villages to construct it.
Patrols coincided with time villagers would have been clearing secondary forests to prepare for this year’s upland rice crop. Fear of landmines will prevent return even if troops withdraw.
Travel restrictions in lowland areas near Sittaung River (along the Kyaukkyi – Shwe Gyin Road) prevent villagers from foraging for forest products, which is their main source of livelihood and trade. Food shortages have resulted.
ERA Request 28 April 2006
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 368
Period:
1 March 2006 – ongoing
Military Units Identified:
OCH-16: IB-240, IB-68, IB-69 OCH-10: LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-366 OCH-21: IB-223, IB-56 Southern Command and Tactical Command 2: LIB-439, BC Zaw Htun, and 2nd BC Aung Htay Win, based in Baw Ka Hta and Htet Htu camps, respectively.
Military Operations:
Highland areas (Kheh Der and Kwee Lah Village Tracts)
6 March 2006 LIB-362, LIB-363, and LIB-366 (OCH-10) combined with IB-240, IB-68, and IB- 69 (OCH-16), estimated total strength 500 soldiers, left Mu Theh Camp, divided into three groups and conducted patrols.
7 March LIB-366 entered Kheh Der area and patrolled Wa Mi Lu and Pa Kaw Khee villages. 8 March, troops shot and killed Paw Kaw Khee villager Saw [Name Redacted] (50) and his son Saw [Name Redacted] (14). Search-and-destroy patrols continued for 20 days. Troops withdrew 27 March.
LIB-362 and LIB-363 entered Kheh Der area and patrolled Do Daw Khee, Khaw Htaw Khee, Htwi Thee U Khee, Mu Li Khee, Doo Baw, and Pa Kho Der villages.
11 March KNLA firefight and Mu The villager, Saw [Name Redacted], (forced to porter), was badly wounded. Search-and-destroy patrols continued for 10 days or so. Troops withdrew 20 March.
9 March IB-240, IB-68, and IB-69 entered Khe Der Village Tract and patrolled: Ta Kaw Der, Kheh Der, To Gay Kyo, Day Baw Khee, Khaw Hta, Thaw Ngeh Der, Mu Khee, Kho Lu, and Htee Htaw Lo villages. Search-and-destroy patrols lasted 10 days. Most of the Total fled to Htee Law Khee area.
17 March IB-240 returned to To Ta Dah and then on to Saw Peh Der military camp. 19 March resupplied and then moved to Kyauk Lon Kyi to establish a new base on route villagers use to buy rice. 15 people from each village (Pa Deh Gaw, Baw Ka Hta, and Klaw Maw) forced to send to do construction.
18 March IB-68 and IB-69 left Kheh Der area to transport rations to Saw Phe Der [camp].
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 369
20 March these troops began patrols in Kwee Lah Village Tract, especially around: Ka Dee Mu Der, Htee Mu Hta, Ler Hsu Kho, Htee Nya Li Day, Wa Kay Der, and Per Kho Villages.
30 March troops moved to Ler Paw Tha in Hsaw Hti Township. During patrols, villagers fled to Ler Wah Village Tract. Troops found and destroyed food supplies and other belongings, then laid landmines.
15 April IB-223 and IB-57 entered area, built a camp on the banks of the Khay Lo River in Kwee Lah Village Tract, and began regular patrols.
Total losses: 5,000 plus baskets of paddy, 357 tins of rice, and other properties lost during one month in both village tracts.
Due to 2005 operations many villagers already faced food shortages and these patrols, timed to coincide with field clearing, have exacerbated them.
Lowland / midland areas
Most of former lowland populations moved to midland areas largely under SPDC control (some mixed administration). Forced labor is heavy and most people have to rely on forest products to survive.
1 March LIB-439 (with bases at Htet Htu, Baw Ka Hta, and Yan Myo camps) along the road have imposed travel restrictions that prevent foraging. “They frightened the villagers by saying that they will kill anyone who is found in the forest.” Villagers in Ma U Bin and Pa Ta Lah Village Tracts are the worst affected.
LIB-439, 2nd BC Capt. Han Shein, and LIB-240, based in Kyauk Lon Kyi, conducted continuous patrols in the midland areas, making it very difficult for villagers in Ma U Bin, Lae Kaw Wa, Htay Paw, and To Thay Poo to survive.
Reasons:
Establish more bases and control over the area Cut communications between lowland and highland areas Drive civilians out in order to “cut off strength of KNU”.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 370
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kheh Der Mu Khee 17 211 2 Kheh Der Ta Kaw Der 19 151 3 Kheh Der Tu Gaw Kyo 21 159 4 Kheh Der Day Baw Khee 8 73 5 Kheh Der Khaw Hta 9 56 6 Kheh Der Htwi Thee U Khee 10 77 7 Kheh Der Do Daw Khee 12 86 8 Kheh Der Doo Baw Lu 9 79 9 Kheh Der Thaw Ngeh Der 15 95 10 Kheh Der Kheh Der 12 96 11 Kheh Der Kho Lu 11 58 12 Kheh Der Htee Htaw Lo 8 59 13 Kheh Der Mu Li Khee 12 96 14 Kheh Der Khaw Htaw Khee 4 36 15 Kheh Der Pa Kha Khee 27 228 16 Kwee Lah Ka Dee Mu Der 30 203 17 Kwee Lah Htee Mu Hta 50 347 18 Kwee Lah Ler Hsu Kho 17 132 19 Kwee Lah Htee Nya Li Day 19 147 20 Kwee Lah Wa Kay Der 13 84 21 Kwee Lah Maw Khee 5 56 22 Kwee Lah Po Kho Der 8 102 23 Kwee Lah Per Pho Khee 19 107 24 Kwee Lah Lae Kaw Wa 80 489 25 Ma U Bin Ma U Bin 89 625 26 Ma U Bin To Thay Poo 65 342 27 Ma U Bin Nae Peh Pay 62 421 28 Ma U Bin Nay Shah 50 362 29 Pa Ta Lah Htay Paw 56 286 757 5,263
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 371
People in Urgent Need of ERA
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Kheh Der Mu Khee 17 211 2 Kheh Der Ta Kaw Der 19 151 3 Kheh Der Tu Gaw Kyo 21 159 4 Kheh Der Day Baw Khee 8 73 5 Kheh Der Khaw Hta 9 56 6 Kheh Der Htwi Thee U Khee 10 77 7 Kheh Der Do Daw Khee 12 86 8 Kheh Der Doo Baw Lu 9 79 9 Kheh Der Thaw Ngeh Der 15 95 10 Kheh Der Kheh Der 12 96 11 Kheh Der Kho Lu 11 58 12 Kheh Der Htee Htaw Lo 8 59 13 Kheh Der Mu Li Khee 12 96 14 Kheh Der Khaw Htaw Khee 4 36 15 Kheh Der Pa Kha Khee 27 228 16 Kwee Lah Ka Dee Mu Der 30 203 17 Kwee Lah Htee Mu Hta 50 357 18 Kwee Lah Ler Hsu Kho 17 132 19 Kwee Lah Htee Nya Li Day 19 147 20 Kwee Lah Wa Kay Der 13 84 21 Kwee Lah Maw Khee 5 56 22 Kwee Lah Po Kho Der 8 102 23 Kwee Lah Per Pho Khee 19 107 24 Kwee Lah Lae Kaw Wa 39 342 25 Ma U Bin Ma U Bin 40 367 26 Ma U Bin To Thay Poo 31 152 27 Ma U Bin Nae Peh Pay 0 0 28 Ma U Bin Nay Shah 0 0 29 Pa Ta Lah Htay Paw 7 65 472 3,664
Distribution estimated 45 days
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 372
ERA Distribution Summary 1 September 2006
Demographics:
Assistance provided as per original request.
Logistics:
Departed 9 June and returned 40 days later on 16 July 2006. Trip required 20 days of waiting to avoid SPDC patrols.
Livelihood:
Cultivate rice and vegetables in lowland and highland areas. Some animal husbandry: chickens, pigs, goats, and buffalos. 70% of the population relies on both, while 15% engage in small-scale trade and/or wage labor.
Military Situation:
6 March – July LIB-362, LIB-363, and LIB-366 (OCH-10) and IB-240, IB-68, IB-69 (OCH-16) [around 500 troops total] conducted patrols.
3 villages forced to relocate to Mu That where SPDC plans to build a new town, market, and dam.
Military Operations Update:
Trip monitor interviewed 50 villagers over 19 days (16/6-5/7/2006). Gathered data on the aforementioned military units under MOC-10, and MOC-16 command.
3 June LIB-366 entered Kheh Der Village Tract and patrolled Wa Mi Lu and Paw Kaw Khee areas.
8 June LIB-602, under TOC-1, entered Kher Der Village Tract and patrolled Ta Kaw Der, Kheh Der, Khaw Hta, and Mu Khee villages. Patrols lasted 6 days. Troops then withdrew to Ler Doh Town. They planted landmines before doing so and left behind 2 large dogs [sic] in the area.
6 July Military Strategy Commander #2, Khin Soe, and IB-60, led by BC Saw Linn, instructed that 50 households each from Play Lah Hay, Jeh Chan, and Tha Phay Gone villages (150 households total) to relocate to Mu That, with the goal of enlarging the town. Troops reportedly plan to build a dam at Thel Ko Klo and create a market there. According to local sources, troops continue to stockpile food to support further militarization / consolidation of territorial control.
Units:
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 373
OCH-16, TOC-2 IB-240 IB-68 IB-69
OCH-10, TOC-2 LIB-362 LIB-363 LIB-366 (9/4/06 these troops moved to Ler Mu Plaw and began patrols)
OCH-21, TOC-2 IB-223 IB-56
Southern Command and TOC-2, Commander Khin Soe, based in Ler Doh LIB-439, BC Zaw Htun, baed at Baw Kha Hta camp LIB-439, 2nd BC Aung Htay Win, based at Hteh Htu camp LIB-439, Company 1 Commander Myint Thein Aung, based at Yan Myo Aung camp LIB-439, Company 2 Commander Hen Shein, patrolling Baw Ka Hta area
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 374
ERA Impact Assessment Summary 1 November 2006
Market Impacts:
ERA to hiding and mixed-administration areas. Villagers in hiding areas can buy rice and household goods with KNLA assistance, who arrange for traders to meet with them in jungle “markets,” avoiding SPDC checkpoints. Some able to buy rice at Pay Tu and Sa Leh. The journey is a 3-day walk round-trip. Local Due to travel restrictions, checkpoints, and difficult terrain, prices are now quite high. Local authorities sometimes arrange travel to a pre-arranged place in Pa Pun twice per week for buying/selling goods. The trip takes 3-4 days round-trip.
Villagers in lowland areas can travel to Shwe Gyin. Half-day round-trip by bicycle or bullock- cart.
People on both cases prioritized rice and paddy, spending the remaining on basic needs, clothes, medicine, and school supplies for their children.
Security Impacts:
None. ERA recipients did not discuss the source of money and troops remained unaware of the distribution.
SPDC Camps in Ler Doh Area:
Military Strategic Command #2, Commander Khin Zaw, from Southern Command, based in Ler Doh (Kyaukkyi) town.
LIB-351 based in Htaik Htu and Ler Doh camps.
LIB-57 based in Baw Ka Hta and Kyo Kyi camps.
MOC-21, TOC-2, led by 2nd Tactical Commander Khin Oo, based at Ro Khah Soe camp with 40 soldiers.
LIB-387, led by officer Tun Tun Aung, based at Saw Peh Der camp, with 30 soldiers. LIB-387, BC commander Aung Soe Win, at Maw Law camp, with 40 soldiers.
MOC-16, TOC-2, based at Mu Thet camp, with 40 soldiers.
SPDC Operations:
June / July [?] LIB-602, columns 1 and 2, led by Aung Than Oo, conducted patrols in the eastern side of the Kyaukkyi – Shwe Gyin road, lowland and upland areas, including Kwee Lah, and Kheh Der Village Tracts.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 375
June / July [?] LIB-601, columns 1 and 2, led by Kyaw thu Ya patrolled these areas as well.
1 July 2006 [Light Infrantry] Division 33 enters Kaw Tha Say, Ma U Bin, and Hto Ta Dar, and troops prevent people from leaving their villages for 10 days. Food shortages severe for some households.
5 July MOC-21, led by Commander Aye Lwin, sends supplies to Ro Kheh Soe and Saw Pheh Der, for frontline troops to clear highland areas next dry season. IB-57, led by BC May Kyan Than, forced villagers to provide 90 bullock carts (Pa Deh Kaw Village Tract), 150 (Hay Tha Weh Village Tract), and 50 (Ma Phee Village Tract) to deliver supplies. BC commander required three villagers accompany each bullock cart.
2 July IB-60, led by BC Kyaw Thu Ya; LIB-602, led by BC Aung Than Oo; and LIB-589, led by Saw Aung, entered Shwe Ta and Hto Thay Phu Villages and extorted 490 kyat from every household.
2 August LIB-323, under MOC-16 and led by officer Kyaw Kyaw Oo forced people in Heh Ka Kho Village Tract to clear landmines in the area. “For villagers they were fearing to clear the landmine by themselves and they let their buffalos to go forward used as tool of cleaning the landmine and as for the villagers they go after and stepped on the footsteps of their buffalo until finishing their duty.”
8 August IB-57, Saw Eh Gay, one of Officer Myo Khyik Tha’s soldiers, Saw Eh Gay, drowned in the Theh Law Klo River. He extorted 17,500 kyat from each of the following villages to pay for the funeral services: Shu Khin Tha, Kaw Tha Say, Hto Thay Pu, Shwe Ta, Khone Myint Tha Yar, and Lew Kaw Wa.
21 August Military Strategy Commander, Soe Myint, based in Shwe Gyin, ordered IB-57, led by officer My Kyik Tha, to completely move residents of Pi Phin Khone, Kaw Tha Seink, Khone Myint Tha Ya villages to Pa Del Khaw [relocation] village by the 28th.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 376
Report Number KORD-2006-13
Date Submitted: 4 September 2006
Location: South of Kyaukkyi town, east of Sittaung River, west Kyaukkyi River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htu Ler Doh Thoo Ka Bee No Gaw Weh La Daw
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 447 3,683
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-57, LIB-351, LIB-439 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-351 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 377
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-267, LIB-349, LIB-389, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 378
KORD-2006-13 ERA Request Summary 4 September 2006
Demographics:
3,653 people (447 households) from 9 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Thoo Ka Bee, No Gaw, and Weh La Daw Village Tracts, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htu District).
Located in a mixed administration area south of Kyaukkyi Town, east of the Sittaung River, and west of the Kyaukkyi River. These villages have been forcibly consolidated into a relocation site at Plaw Law Ber, located next to SPDC Strategic Command Headquarters.
Rationale:
May – June 2006 Strategic Command HQ at Hte Htu coordinated troops from LIB-439, LIB- 351, and LIB-57 to forcibly relocate villages to close to Plaw Law Ber base. KORD speculates that the reason for this is to further cut lowland-upland communications and/or means of protecting the HQ on the grounds that any KNLA attack would result in the severe punishment of civilians.
May LIB-439 ordered each village to collect wood and bamboo and then build 10-20 long houses (depending on the size of the village) in preparation for their immediate relocation. 3 villages from neighboring Pa Ta Lah Village were forcibly relocated as well.
June LIB-351 began ordering the relocation of 9 more villages located at farther distance from the designated relocation site. Early rains restricted building and the time allotted insufficient to move all the belongings, villagers were prohibited from returning to their homes for 1 month. SPDC troops destroyed their homes and stole property in them during this period.
July troops began issuing day passes enabling travel to former villages and fields. Paddy fields had become overgrown with weeds during this period and, without permission to spend the night, villagers couldn’t forage for forest products. Villagers currently eat rice porridge to sustain themselves.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 379
ERA Request 29 July 2006
Location:
3 village tracts (Thoo Ka Hee, No Gaw, and Weh La Dah, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htu District.
Period Covered:
1 June – 30 June 2006
Military Units:
Southern Command LIB-439, Lt. Col Zaw Htun and Maj. Aung Htay Win, based at Baw Ka Hta and Hte Htu camps respectively. LIB-351, Lt. Co. Myo Thu Ra and Maj. Chit Than Oo in Kyaukkyi and Hte Htu camps. LIB-57, based in Kyo Kyee.
Military Operations:
Primarily mixed-administration area, and forced labor high.
[No date] Frontline LIB-439 troops, from Southern Command HQ in Baw Ka Hta and Hte Htu camps, ordered to move villages in mid-land areas to car road. They include: Pa Ta Lah, Thoo Ka Bee, Weh La Daw, No Gaw, and Aye Net Village Tracts to Plaw Law Bler, adjacent to Hte Htu camp.
15 May LIB-351 and changed places [rotated] with LIB-439.
1 June LIB-351 began relocating villagers from Htaw Lo Ko, No Phoe, Ma Taw Koo, Pa Na Ner, Ma Mayah lower, Ma Mayah upper, Hte Htu, Weh La Daw Villages from Thoo Ka Bee, No Gaw, and Weh La Daw Village Tracts to the site.
Due to operations, villagers lost about 2,000 baskets of paddy and 4,000 baskets of rice as well as personal belongings.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 380
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Thoo Ka Bee Thoo Ka Bee 24 187 2 Thoo Ka Bee Htaw Lu Kho 25 217 3 Thoo Ka Bee No Phoe 21 183 4 Thoo Ka Bee Ma Taw Koo 57 498 5 Thoo Ka Bee Pa Na Ner 14 138 6 No Gaw Ma Mayah Upper 24 205 7 No Gaw Ma Mayah Lower 40 316 8 No Gaw Hte Htu 103 864 9 Weh La Daw Weh La Daw 139 1,075 10 Pa Ta Lah Pa Ta Lah 137 1,060 11 Pa Ta Lah Hi Phoe Der 49 353 12 Pa Ta Lah Taw Kho 50 392 683 5,488
People in Urgent Need of Food
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Thoo Ka Bee Thoo Ka Bee 24 187 2 Thoo Ka Bee Htaw Lu Kho 25 217 3 Thoo Ka Bee No Phoe 21 183 4 Thoo Ka Bee Ma Taw Koo 57 498 5 Thoo Ka Bee Pa Na Ner 14 138 6 No Gaw Ma Mayah Upper 24 205 7 No Gaw Ma Mayah Lower 40 316 8 No Gaw Hte Htu 103 864 9 Weh La Daw Weh La Daw 139 1,075 10 Pa Ta Lah Pa Ta Lah 0 0 11 Pa Ta Lah Hi Phoe Der 0 0 12 Pa Ta Lah Taw Kho 0 0 447 3,683
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 381
ERA Distribution Summary 18 January 2007
Demographics:
Distributed as per request. 1,107 children (482 girls, 535 boys) < 10 and 1,366 females and 1,300 males over 10.
Logistics:
7 October – 13 November 2006 (36 days).
Situation Update:
SPDC and DKBA demand yearly tax on paddy fields. Due to forced labor and travel restrictions, many villagers abandoned fields.
Forced relocations and seizures (30 acres total).
SPDC extorted 1 million kyat from villages “accused” of buying a camera. Troops had arrested and tortured them.
Men more vulnerable in terms of portering and landmine sweeping.
Military Situation Update:
May 2006 relocations began in remote areas of Ler Doh Township. People lost fields in process and received no compensation: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (5 acres), 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (8 acres); 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (4 acres); 4) Saw [Name Redacted] (9.5 acres); 5) [Name Redacted] (6 acres).
1 August LIB-351, BC Than Htite, extorted clothes and 350,000 kyat from Weh Ah Daw villagers.
3 August LIB-351, BC Than Htite, arrested Shu Shi Villager, Saw [Name Redacted], and tortured him using rope, nearly drowning him in water, and detaining him for one month in a prison cell. Troops demanded 300,000 kyat ransom from his family. Although released, troops would not let him leave the village on the grounds that he was a KNLA contact person.
25 August, LIB-351, Company Commander Ye Win, arrested Taw Kho villager, Saw [Name Redacted], and fined him 30,000 kyat for having 2 UM-3 batteries in his hut.
Military Strategy 1 Commander, based in Shwe Gyin, instructed LIB-350 BC Capt. Than Naing to move U Ba Bin Village to Hto Thay Pu; Leh Kaw Wa Village to Pa Aye – Shwe Tar Road; and Kyin Bin Su Village to Thar Thay Hsa Village within 3 days (1 – 3 November 2006).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 382
Bases in Area:
Southern Command
Military Strategy Commander 2, Khin Soe, based in Ler Doh Town.
LIB-439, Lt. Col. Zaw Htu, based in Baw Ka Hta, Maj. Aung Htay Win based in The Htu, Company Commander Haw Win Aung based in Kyo Kyee, Company Commander Myint Than based in Gho Wah.
LIB-351, Lt. Col. Myo Thu Ra based in Kyaukkyi, Maj. Chit Oo based in The Htu
LIB-57, commander unknown, based in Kyo kyee.
IB-73, patrols eastern part of Hte Htu.
LIB-599, BC Win Tun, based in Moo Township and patrols Kyaukkyi Township.
Livelihood:
2006 flood badly damaged food sources and stores.
6 hour walk from villages to markets in Ler Doh Township. No signs of hillside cultivation due to SPDC patrols and travel restrictions.
Day labor can earn 50 baskets of paddy/year.
SPDC forbids villagers to bring medicine back to villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 383
ERA Impact Assessment 17 April 2007
Market Impact:
ERA assistance to not affect local prices. Total could buy rice directly in Ler Doh Town, 3-6 hours walk, by avoiding patrols and checkpoints on commonly used paths.
Security Impact:
Local MOC-21 commander did question villagers as to where ERA came from. Villagers said they were dressed in ordinary clothing and did not know. No retaliation.
No conflict among villages or between villagers as a result of ERA.
Military Operations Post-ERA.
24 December 2006 MOC-21 Strategy 1 enters Ler Doh Township. LIB-267 and LIB 389 patrolled Htee Mu Hta and Ka Nar Kho areas. Many villagers from Htee Mu Hta, Ka Nar Kho, Htee Nya Li Day, Maw Khee, Htee Ler Gaw now hiding in forest.
18 January 2007 troops [not known] reestablished camp at Ler Wah Soe near Muthet.
19 January These troops forced villagers from Kheh Kar Kho Village to provide labor.
20 January These troops took position in area.
5 February LIB-349, led by BC Than Htaik, forced villagers from Hto Wah Side Village Tract and Hein Than Wan Village Tract to buy a motorcycle for him (1,200,000 kyat). He also charged 2,000 kyat for a travel pass (good for 10 days).
5 February Southern Command officer Khin Maung Oo demanded thatch from many different villages. Charged 100 kyat per thatch from the following villages: 1) Hto Wah Naing (1,500 thatches); 2) Kyauk Sa Yee (1,200); 3) Thoo Ka Bee (500); 4) Pa Tah Lah (1,500), 5) Noh Gaw (1,200); 6) Aye Neh (200); 7) Kyo Kyi (1,200), respectively.
LIB-599, BC Tin Bo Aung, extorted 100 baskets of paddy and 200,000 kyat from Weh Law Daw Village Tract.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 384
Report Number CIDKP-2006-06
Date Submitted: 11 June 2006
Location: East Shwegyin River and west Bilin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Shwegyin n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Hsaw Hti Hsaw Ther Khi Htee Bla Loe Khi Ler Wah
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 19 443 3,405
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-4, LIB-12, LIB-230, LIB-237, IB-350, LIB-387, LIB-440, LIB-602, LIB-607 Infantry Battalions IB-57 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-321, LIB-438 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 385
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 386
CIDKP-2006-06 ERA Request Summary 11 June 2006
Demographics:
3,405 people (443 households) from 19 villages in Shwegyin Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Loe Khi, Ler Wah, Hsaw Ther Khi, and Htee Bla Village Tracts, Saw Hti Township, Nyaunglebin District). Target population: 1,754 males and 1,651 females (12% of total < 5 years of age).
East of the Shwegyin River, west of the Bilin River, with Htee Bla and Hsaw Ther Kli being the closest to Shwegyin Town. Ler Wah is relatively lowland forest, and Loe Khi to the east in the uplands. Usually designated “rebel” territory.
Rationale:
February 2006 1,200 men under MOC-21 and Southern Command entered the area. Troops divided and established 2 main bases (Wei Soe and Hgo Hga Loe) and built large rice storage barns. Villagers fled.
Troops destroyed 119 paddy barns, 8,336 baskets of paddy abandoned, 638 baskets burnt and destroyed. Amount equivalent to the food supply for 2,000 people for 3 months.
191 plots of paddy abandoned. Most people are dependent on upland rice (some orchards) the patrols will have a significant impact on food security.
Note: September 2005 patrols in the above 4 village tracts resulted in the loss of 8,000-9,000 baskets of paddy (equivalent to 1 year of rice for 444-500 people).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 387
ERA Request 11 June 2006
Background:
Hsaw Ther Khi, Htee Bla, Loe Khi, and Ler Wah Village Tracts are located in Hsaw Hti (Shwegyin) Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District. Hsaw Ther Khi, Htee Bla, and Loe Kho are mixed terrain (highlands and valley), while Ler Wah is largely flat. The Kay Loe Klo River (Shwegyin) River is the largest and navigable year round from Shwegyin to Waw Lu Kwee (Ler Wah ) Village Tract. Other rivers include: Wah Loe Kloe and Su Mu Loe Klo.
Paddy used to be the primary crop along with betel nut, durian, lemon, and cardamom. The Four Cuts campaign destroyed the fields and orchards, and most people fled and formed new villages after troops withdrew, as they did not establish permanent basis.
1997 Scorched Earth campaign destroyed these villages again. The troops established permanent bases at this time and conducted search-and-destroy campaigns. People relied on upland rice and other foodstuffs for their survival.
21 September 2005 LIB-4, LIB-12, and LIB-440 entered Loe Khi and Ler Wah Village Tracts. The conducted patrols in the area for about 6 weeks and then withdrew to Baw Ka Hta. Due to the patrols villagers abandoned 166 plots of paddy farms (which would produce 8,000-9,000 baskets of paddy) as well as 15 paddy barns holding about 900 baskets of paddy.
February 2006 LIB-230, LIB-237, LIB-387, LIB-601, LIB-602 (under MOC-21) and IB-57 and LIB-350 (under Southern command) entered the area [Hsaw Ther Khi, Htee Bla, Loe Khi, and Ler Wah Village Tracts] with about 1,200 troops, led by Lt. Col. Chit Oo. The troops divided into 2 main groups: 1 for transportation security and the other for patrols. The troops were stationed at Wei Soe and Hgo Hga Loe, and build large rice storage facilities at each base.
February-May patrols led villages to flee and hide in the jungle, which prevented them from taking food with them and working their fields. 119 paddy farms (with 8,336 baskets of paddy) abandoned and 5 paddy barns (638 baskets of paddy) destroyed. An additional 191 paddy plots abandoned due to displacement.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 388
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Loe Khi Thay Kho Hser Der 65 240 239 36 23 538 2 Loe Khi Kaw Mu Der 29 106 108 13 13 240 3 Loe Khi Loe Khi 17 71 84 7 5 167 4 Loe Khi Thaw Hgeh Kho 6 22 24 2 6 54 5 Loe Khi Hsaw Ro Kho 11 35 42 9 5 91 6 Loe Khi Mee Ta Nay Der 22 74 77 7 10 168 7 Loe Khi Htee Ler Pah Hta 50 142 139 23 29 333 8 Loe Khi Htee Maw Kwe Khi 40 108 107 23 17 255 9 Ler Wah Ler Wah 23 83 72 6 7 168 10 Ler Wah Htee Nya Li Day 11 38 40 7 3 88 11 Ler Wah Mae Si 8 31 33 3 4 71 12 Ler Wah Htee Mae Ka Lar 9 33 33 4 2 72 13 Ler Wah Htee Ler Gaw Khi 6 23 26 2 8 59 14 Hsaw Ther Khi Ta Say Der 33 103 99 12 8 222 15 Hsaw Ther Khi War Pae Kwee 14 50 34 10 8 102 16 Hsaw Ther Khi Hsaw Oo Hta 36 154 96 20 22 292 17 Hsaw Ther Khi Hgaw Khi 15 69 50 9 8 136 18 Htee Bla Hsaw Oo Khi 16 43 52 6 8 109 19 Htee Bla Htee Bla 32 116 99 14 11 240 443 1,541 1,454 213 197 3,405
Local rice prices in Shwegyin and Papun areas: 5,000 kyat/tin
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 389
ERA Distribution Summary 25 October 2006
Demographics:
Assistance provided as per request.
Logistics:
Left 7 July – 28 September (12 weeks).
Situation Update:
MOC-21 still patrolling the 4 village tracts and has built 3 camps at Ro Kar Soe, War Ko, and Law Tae along the riverbank of the Hgo Gar Loe.
1 August LIB-321 entered Htee Bla Village Tract and found the Hsaw Oo Khi hiding place. About 100 fled to another one, but returned about 4 days later with the troops withdrew.
2 August 2006 during ERA distribution LIB-438 entered Ler Wah Village Tract and shot and wounded Saw [Name Redacted] in the leg while he was weeding his paddy farm. He escaped by troops burned his farm down, and he lost 2 tins of rice and 5 viss of salt as well as farming implements.
3 August Troops [LIB-438?] reached an IDP hiding place in Ler Wah and approximately 200 people fled in the rain elsewhere. Troops patrolled the area from 9 days and then returned to Ro Kar Soe. Total communicated with one another so they could take evasive action when troops approached. Troops withdrew 2-3 days later and Total returned to their former hiding place.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 390
Report Number CIDKP-2006-13
Date Submitted: 31 October 2006
Location: n.a.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwe Htoo Ler Doh Maw Bwe Khi Thay Gor Der Hgeh Kar Kho Pa Deh Gaw
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 15 553 4,645
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-16, MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-232, LIB-345, LIB-351, LIB-387, LIB-440 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-242, LIB-342, LIB-349, LIB-351, LIB-440 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 391
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-602 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 392
CIDKP-2006-13 ERA Request Summary 31 October 2006
Demographic:
4,645 people (553 households) from 15 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Maw Bwe Khi, Thay Gor Der, Hgeh Kar Kho, and Pa Deh Gaw Village Tracts, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District). Target population: 283 girls and 267 boys under 5 years of age, and 2,062 females and 2,000 males over 5 years of age.
The area is a brown zone (mixed administration).
Rationale:
LIB-345, LIB-351, LIB-440, and IB-60 (MOC-16) and LIB-387 (MOC-21) have patrolled the area from mid-May through the end of August 2006.
Brown-zone area so human right violations are widespread: forced labor (including portering), extortion, looting, indiscriminate shootings and firing of mortars, and travel restrictions widespread.
More than 700 villages forced to porter on long journeys. 18 people badly beaten and 2 [of them?] to death during the operation. 70 bullock carts also commandeered.
More than 2 million kyat extorted and many buffalos, pigs, and other animals eaten without payment.
Travel restrictions prevent people from working their fields and/or gathering forest products for sale. Travel passes (300-500 kyat/trip) can be purchased from local military authorities.
Forced labor to construct new camps, dig trenches, fencing, etc. widespread. Villagers had to bring own food and tools.
One villager arrested on charges of possessing a gun and a radio transmitter. [He did not]. During the search of his home, LIB-351 troops looted gold and silver rings, necklaces, nuggets, and ankle bracelets. They forced him to sign a document promising not to tell others what happened.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 393
Background:
Prior 1974-1975 Hgeh Ker Kho, Thay Waw Der, Maw Bwe Khi, and Pa Deh Gaw Village Tracts were under absolute KNU control. Following the “Four Cuts” campaign, villages in the areas, including those in the above mentioned village tracts, ordered to relocation sites or “defined” [predetermined] villages. Some refused and fled to nearby towns or the upland areas.
Residents of Hgeh Ker Kho Village Tract ordered to relocate to Mu Theh; Maw Bwe Khi to Kweh Chan, and Thay Waw Der to Pitu – Sa Leh.
These villages are in a brown (mixed-administration) zone.
Livelihoods:
Prior to the Four Cuts, villagers grew paddy and some cash crops (durian, dog fruit, limes, betel nut, etc.). The campaign forced them to abandon their farms and orchards. It was [is?] possible for them to access both with a travel pass (300-500 kyat/day).
People in relocation sites performed wage labor, tenant farming, handy work, bamboo basket weavings, etc. Very few had permanent jobs forcing some of younger men and women became migrant laborers. Forced labor and extortion widespread as are “taxes” and “fees”.
Military Operations:
Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract
Mid-May onwards MOC-16 troops and Central Command carried out patrols in Ler Doh (Kyaukkyi) Township. Forced labor and extortion heavy.
15 May LIB-345 orders 45 villagers from Hgeh Kar Kho to porter military supplies from Mu Theh to Pau Kay Kho. The trip lasted 5 days.
17 May LIB-351, led by Captain Chit Oo, ordered 55 villagers from Hgeh Kar Kho to dig trenches, fence the camp, etc. for 14 days. People had to bring their own food and tools. These troops also extorted 5,000 kyat/household. Total amount extorted= 285,000 kyat.
9 July LIB-351 engaged in firefight about 2 km from the village. 2 soldiers killed, 1 soldier and 1 police officer wounded. After the incident, troops entered Hgeh Kar Kho and fired “arbitrarily,” killing 4 buffalos. They beat one villager and later arrested 10 more (3 women and 7 men), who they took back to the Mu Theh base. The troops demanded 500,000 kyat for their release.
3rd week of July MOC-16 Commander Soe Naing, based in Mu Theh, ordered Hgeh Kar Kho villagers to relocate to Thway Bo Plaw. The villagers refused and had to pay a 450,000 kyat fine to remain.
Maw Bwe Khi Village Tract
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 394
13 April LIB-351, led by officer Aye Kyaw, demanded that 40 people from this village tract clear the road plus 50 yards on both sides between Kyaukkyi – Hsaw Me Lu. The effort took 15 days.
20 April IB-60 and the KNLA clashed on the road between Kyaukkyi – Hsaw Me Lu [specific location not stated]. 6 IB-60 soldiers killed and 5 guns lost. Afterwards, these troops entered Pa Nar Ger Village, arbitrarily arrested 6 villages and “severely” beat them. The troops demanded one million kyat for their release, otherwise they would kill them. The villagers sold some cattle to raise the money. The troops released 4 of the 6. 3 of them, Naw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], and Saw [Name Redacted] were badly injured and were later taken to the hospital in Kyaukkyi. The other 2 people were sent to prison [not identified].
25 May LIB-232 (MOC-16) forced 100 people to porter military supplies from Kyaukkyi to Mu Theh. It required 3 days.
31 May LIB-351 forced 50 people from Pa Nar Ger to build a military camp, which took 10 days to complete. People had to bring their own food and tools.
1 July LIB-351, led by BC Chit Ko, forbade people from going “into the jungle to cut bamboo, log, collect jungle food, and for baking charcoal, etc. If found all will be shot and killed without question.” Nearly everyone in the village tract relies upon these activities to generate income, so the travel ban is having a significant impact on their livelihoods.
Thay Gaw Der Village Tract
10 May IB-60, led by Company Commander Myint Win, forced 100 people from Pay Tu – Sa Leh to clear the road (up to 50 yards on both sides) between Mye Ni Gone – Pau Kar Bridge. It took 9 days to complete the task.
29 June LIB-440 forced 50 people from Pay Tu – Sa Leh to construct a military camp. People had to provide their own food and tools. Troops also extorted 8,000 kyat/household (72 total) to purchase building materials. Total cost: 567,000 kyat.
13 July 30 KNLA troops entered Pay Tu – Sa Leh Village and stayed for 3 days. Five days later (18 July) LIB-440 troops entered the village and opened fire because they had failed to inform them. 1 killed (Saw [Name Redacted]) and 1 wounded ([Name Redacted]). Several villagers were badly beaten as well. The troops fined the village 2 pigs (90 kg. [each?], 10 tins of rice, and 150,000 kyat.
28 August 15 troops from LIB-351, led by Captain Kyaw Min and officer Kyaw Sein Min, entered Pay Tu (Sa Leh) Village and arrested Saw [Name Redacted] (age 40), son of Saw [Name Redacted]. The troops took him to the Tactical Command office in Kyaukkyi. He was accused of having a gun and a radio transmitter and then badly beaten. While searching his home, troops stole: 1) 5 gold rings, 2) 5 pairs of gold earrings, 3) 7 gold necklaces, 4) one gold nugget (80 gm), 5) one silver nugget (240 gm), 6) 53 silver coins, 7) one gold watch ankle lace, 8) 6 pairs of
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 395
silver ankle lace, 9) 230,000 kyat, and 10) all new Karen dress. Troops later returned one gold ring and 120,000 kyat after requiring the villager to provide a fingerprint on a document promising not the report the incident.
Pa Deh Kaw Village Tract
27 May LIB-387, led by Captain Aung Naing, demanded 50,000 kyat/village from 8 villages to pay for a pig raising development project. Total amount extorted: 400,000 kyat.
5 June MOC-21 troops forced 200 villagers from Pa Deh Kaw Village Tract to transport military supplies from Baw Ka Hta to Ro Kar Soe. It took 4 days.
20 June LIB-387, led by Captain Tin Zaw, forced 150 villagers to porter rice from Baw Ka Hta to Saw Bae Der. It took 4 days.
29 June Firefight with KNLA troops results. 2 soldiers killed and 1 wounded. LIB-387 troops entered Pa Deh Gaw Village later that day and assaulted villagers. Troops beat [Name Redacted] to death. Troops also extorted 70,000 kyat/village from the 8 villages. Total extorted: 560,000 kyat.
9 July LIB-387, led by Captain Tin Zaw, forced 150 villagers to porter rice from Baw Ka Hta to Ro Kar Soe. The trip took 4 days.
15 July, Colonel Chit Oo [LIB-351] demanded the following amounts from 8 villages in the village tract: 50,000 kyat from Pa Deh Kaw and Shu Kin Tha; 15,000 from Po Pin Gone, Kone Myint Tha Ya, and Thay Tar; 25,000 kyat from Thone Kwa and Yan Aye Gone; and 7,000 kyat from Tha Yet Pin. Troops also commandeered 70 bullock carts to transport military supplies.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 396
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Maw Bwe Pa Nar Ger 57 264 256 45 34 599 Khi 2 Thay Gaw Sa Lay (Pay Tu) 72 292 295 37 51 675 Der 3 Hgeh Kar Hgeh Kar Kho 58 250 245 43 56 594 Kho 4 Pa Deh Gaw Pa Deh Gaw 112 426 456 32 34 948 5 Pa Deh Gaw Shu Kin Tha Ya 75 250 256 33 32 571 6 Pa Deh Gaw Po Pin Gone 26 102 87 14 8 211 7 Pa Deh Gaw Kone Myint Tha Ya 28 83 88 12 9 192 8 Pa Deh Gaw Pa Deh Gaw Tha Yet 11 36 36 2 6 80 Pin 9 Pa Deh Gaw Thay Tar 26 80 97 3 7 187 10 Pa Deh Gaw Thone Kwa 48 142 139 23 29 333 11 Pa Deh Gaw Yan Aye Gone 40 108 107 23 17 255 553 2,033 2,062 267 283 4,645
7,500 kyat/tin in Kyaukkyi plains
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 397
ERA Distribution Summary 2 April 2007
Demographics:
Distributed as requested. Out of the total 4,645, 550 children under 5 (267 boys and 283 girls) and 2,033 males and 2,062 females over 5 years of age.
Logistics:
Departed 15 December 2006 and returned 9 March 2007 (83 days).
Livelihoods:
TOTAL are only able to return to their plantation sites by paying 2,000 kyat bribe for 10 day access. Some TOTAL are now working as wage laborers in nearby towns and some are making handicrafts to generate income.
Military Operations:
MOC-16 rotated with LID-88 and human rights violations were continuing at the time of ERA distribution.
Troops are forcing hundreds of villagers to porter military supplies and to labor on their rubber plantation sites.
Troops demanded more than 2 million kyat from villagers to pay for an Independence Day Celebration and the release of 14 villagers they had arrested and tortured. They were released after payment.
Troops demanded 700 logs for poles and 3,000 roofing leaves, which villagers had to provide within 15 days.
Travel restrictions severe.
No proper medical care. KNU health workers, backpack teams and FBR periodically able to reach the area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 398
ERA Distribution Report
Military Operations:
27 January 2007 MOC-16 rotated out with LID-88 troops replacing them in Thay Waw Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts. LID-88 troops took positions at Than Bo and Shwe Lan Taung. Arrests, torture, forced labor, and extortion reported.
Thay Gor Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts
10 December 2006 LIB-342, led by BC Myint Tun, forced 150 villagers (including 70 women) to porter military supplies (weighing 20 viss/32 kg) from Hgeh Ker Kho to Mu Theh.
26 December Tactical Commander, Khin Maung Oo, from Kyaukkyi, ordered villagers in both village tracts to clear the jungle and plant rubber trees. Work on the plantation is ongoing.
1 January 2007 Tactical Commander, Khin Maung Oo, demanded 800,000 kyat from inhabitants of both village tracts to celebrate Independence Day on the 4th.
4 January A firefight involving LIB-242 and KNLA troops occurred on the road near Hgeh Ker Kho Village. 4 LIB-242 soldiers killed, 7 wounded, and 3 lost guns. Afterwards, troops arrested 3 people from Hgeh Kar Kho Village ([Name Redacted], [Name Redacted], and [Name Redacted]). They severely beat them and detained for 11 days. Villagers had to provide them with food and water and pay 11,000 kyat each time. The soldiers demanded 500,000 kyat for their release. Villagers collected the money and paid for their release.
19 January IB-60, led by BC Win Bo Shin, forced 70 people from 2 villages. These people had to construct buildings and fence the camp, located at the old Hsaw Me Lu Village site, as well as provide 2,500 pieces of leaf roofing. The work required 5 days.
13 January LIB-351 and KNLA fight on Augn Soe Moe road. 3 SPDC soldiers killed, and 3 guns lost. Afterwards, LIB-351 troops arrested 6 people from Aung Soe Moe Village, 4 from Pa Ner Ger, and 2 from Saw Leh (12 total). Troops beat them badly and held them at Than Bo camp. Troops demanded 50,000 kyat/person for their release. Villagers paid a total of 600,000 kyat.
Pad Deh Gaw Village Tract
LIB-349 establishes a position at Baw Ka Hta Bridge. LIB-440 establishes a position at Pau Wah Hta, and LID-88 at Mu Theh. Forced labor, arbitrary arrests, torture and extortion reportedly widespread. 20 December 2006 LIB-349 Company Commander, Myint Than, orders 140 villagers from the village tract to fence the new camp at Baw Ka Hta. It requires 5 days to complete.
23 December LIB-349 issues an order: “No one was allow to go into the jungle, if saw all must be shot dead.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 399
13 January 2007 LIB-440 Company Commander, Tin Tun, demands village tract residents to provide them with 700 logs [Timber or bamboo poles is not clear] and 3,000 pieces of roofing leaves within 15 days.
28 January LIB-349 Company Commander, Myint Than, orders 160 people in the village tract to cut and clean the road between Mee Thay Gone and Kaw Tha Say (50 yards on both sides).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 400
ERI Impact Assessment June n.d. 2008
Notes:
The price of rice rose from 7,500 kyat/tin (at time of request) and 9,000 kyat/tin (at the time of distribution). By June 2008, when impact assessment conducted, the price had risen again to 12,000 kyat/tin.
SPDC and KNLA soldiers did not loot the ERA. Recipients were able to use the rise to buy rice and other goods.
Military Operations Update:
Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract
3 May 2008 LIB-602 forced 50 people from Hgeh Kar Kho [Village] to build a military camp at Ku Thay Soe. People had to bring their own food and tools. It required 5 days.
29 May LIB-602 Company Commander, Khin Maung Shwe, based at Ku Thay Soe camp, stated that the Tactical Commander asked him to collect money to help Cyclone Nargis victims. Every house had to pay 7,000 kyat.
5 June Khin Maung Shwe forced 45 people from Hgeh Kar Kho Village to porter military supplies from Mu Theh to Pau Kay Kho. Porters had to bring their own food.
Maw Bwe Khi and Thay Waw Der Village Tracts
25 June IB-60 Battalion Commander, Zaw Lin, ordered money collected to help Cyclone Nargis victims. Every household in both village tracts had to pay 7,000 kyat.
Food Assessment
Households with infants and small children able to stretch the funds to purchase food for 4 months. Others bought goods, which they sold, and were then able to purchase 4 months of food. People in debt repaid some of it, which meant they on average only had a 2.5 month supply of rice and were subsisting on gruel.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 401
Report Number KORD-2007-10
Date Submitted: 13 March 2007
Location: South Kyaukkyi Town, west of road to Shwegyin and Sittaung River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukygi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htu Ler Doh Pa Ta Lah Thoo Ka Bee Weh Lah Taw
Zone: Relocation Site in Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 6 353 2,528
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-350, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other Strategic Command 2
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-11 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-216, LIB-439, LIB-350 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 402
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-350, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 403
KORD-2007-10 ERA Request Summary 13 March 2007
Demographics:
2,528 people (353 households) in Hte Htu Relocation Site, Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htoo District).
6 villages from 3 village tracts: Pa Ta Lah, Thoo Ka Bee, and Weh La Taw. Relocation site located south of Kyaukkyi town, west of the road to Shwegyin and the Sittaung River. Former villages located about 20 kilometers farther south.
Rationale:
Livelihood: One-half of the population depended on irrigated paddy fields, one-fourth on cash crops (peanuts, sesame, sugar cane), and one-fourth worked as day laborers. Animal husbandry used to be common, but ceased due to landmines.
LIB-599, based in Htet Htu and Yan Kyee Aung, and LIB-350, based in Baw Ka Hta are active.
April 2006 Battalions moved villagers to the relocation site. Travel initially forbidden but day passes granted beginning in July.
December 2006 Patrols have prevented travel to fields. Troops arrested 5 villagers from Mo Ro Lu while traveling and had their documents destroyed on 25 December. Village headman paid bail for their release. Troops threatened that they would not be responsible for anything that happened to people found disobeying the travel ban.
Travel restrictions led to crop losses. Total losses not known, but 120 irrigated paddy fields, typically producing 20,000 baskets, not harvested. 88 sugar cane, sesame, and peanut plantations also affected.
15 January 2007 LIB-599 instructs villagers to tear down any remaining housing structures. Troops also burnt down paddy farm huts in all three villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 404
ERA Request 13 March 2007
Location:
Pa Ta Lah, Thoo Ka Bee, Weh La Daw Village Tracts, Kyaukkyi-Shwegyin Rd., Htet Htu Relocation Camp, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htu
Dates:
30 November 2006 – 31 January 2007
Units:
LIB-599, based in Htet Htu and Yan Kyee Aung; LIB-350, based in Baw Ka Hta Camp.
Military Operations:
Village tracts in lowland area under SPDC control. Villages located east of Sittaung River and on the Kyaukkyi – Shwegyin Rd. The villagers are about a one-hour walk from Htet Htu Relocation Site.
Livelihood details as summarized in ERA summary.
April 2006 Strategic Command #2 Commander Khin Maung Oo (under Southern Command), based in Kyuakgyi Town, ordered the villages to relocate.
30 November 2006 Khin Maung Oo instructed troops based in Htet Htu, Yan Kyee Aung, and Baw Ka Hta to impose travel restrictions, preventing villagers (from Pa Ta Lah, Hi Pho Der, Pa Aw Taw, Taw Kho, Mo Ro Lu, and Weh La Daw) from working fields, gardens, and highland areas.
25 December troops arrest 5 Mo Ro Lu villagers en route to highland areas and “hit them a lot.” Troops destroyed their travel passes and required the village headman to pay for their release. “There they told the villagers that anyone could not go out from their place. If someone went out and something happened, they would [not] take any responsibility.”
25 December Strategic #2 Commander informed villagers in the relocation site that each village (for those going to return) had to plant at least one rubber garden, but plan not yet implemented.
4 January 2007 Troops from Baw Ka Hta ordered villagers to participate in a football match to mark Independence Day. The teams required to pay 15,000 kyat entry fee. For villages not participating, the fine was 50,000 kyat.
15 January LIB-599 instructs villagers to return home and tear down all of their old structures in their respective villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 405
17 January LIB-599 troops burn down all of the paddy huts in Pa Ta Lah, Thoo Ka Bee, and Weh La Daw Village Tracts.
120 irrigated fields (harvest approximately 20,000 baskets) went un-harvested. 88 gardens (peanut, sesame, and sugar cane) also lost.
Most villagers now rely on wage labor for day-to-day survival. Most people had to borrow rice from Kyaukkyi Town or exchange other items for rice.
Travel restrictions designed to block communication between lowland and highland groups.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Pa Ta Lah Pa Ta Lah 97 719 2 Pa Tah Lah Hi Pho Der 49 352 3 Pa Tah Lah Pa Aw Taw 46 333 4 Pa Ta Lah Taw Kho 64 440 5 Thoo Ka Bee Mo Ru Lu 81 599 6 Weh La Taw Weh La Taw 16 85 353 2,528
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 406
ERA Distribution Summary 20 September 2007
Demographics:
Distributed as per request. 666 children over 10 (326 girls and 340 boys), 913 females and 949 males over 10.
Logistics:
4 May – 18 June (46 days). Trip was risky as distribution occurred in SPDC controlled territory. Frequently had to travel at night.
Situation Update:
30 May 2007 LIB-439 forced 5 villages in Pa Ta Lah Village Tract to move to Htet Htu Relocation Site. Travel restrictions are the main problem.
Primary school exists in site.
Every household has to buy 3 physic plants (500 kyat per). If plant dies, they have to pay a 3,000 kyat fine.
25 May Fighting with KNLA occurred and all villagers ordered to return home for 4 days.
6 June LIB-216 shoots 2 villagers. 1 killed and 1 wounded.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 407
ERA Distribution Report 20 September 2007
Travel and Risk Management:
Crossing roads (Kyaukkyi – Hsaw Hti) and the Thet Lo Klo River (flooded) at night-time very risky, but patrols made it necessary due to the number of camps and temporary outposts.
Military Situation Update:
Villages located 1 hour walk for the relocation site. Villagers who refused to move to the site are staying in neighboring villages. Travel restrictions prevent free movement and no one dares to travel without a pass.
January – April 2007 LIB-349, led by Officer Linn Aung, planned to force villages to relocation site.
30 May troops began forcing residents of Pa Ta Lah Village Tract to move to Htet Htu Relocation Site. Travel passes cost 1,000 kyat/person for 15 days.
LIB-350 and LIB-349 patrolled the area surrounding the site since early 2007.
27 April LIB-350 troops distributed physic plant nuts (1 tin/household) and charged them 500 kyat. Villagers who failed to plant the seeds had to pay a 9,000 kyat fine.
22 May KNLA and troops [not specified] engaged at Kyauk Sa Yeik region. LIB-350 troops prevented villagers from travelling to fields for 4 days.
6 June LIB-216 (under LID-11) shot 2 villagers from Baw Ka Hta Village who were collecting dog fruit in the forest: [Name Redacted]died on the spot and [Name Redacted] wounded. He is receiving treatment in Shwegyin town.
7 June LIB-350, led by officer Aung Aung, forced villagers from Pa Na Ner Village to move to the relocation site.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 408
ERA Impact Assessment 25 January 2008
Market Impact:
Mixed administration area. Villagers can access rice in Kyaukkyi market on own, avoiding SPDC troops as much as possible. People could also buy rice from nearby villages. Commodity prices increased [nationwide], but due to inflation and hard transportation but not ERA distribution.
Security Impact:
KNU imposed annual taxes, but not on assistance.
HR violations continue [not specified].
13 June 2007 LIB-350, BC Soe Aung, ordered villagers from Thu Ka Bi, Noh Poe, Htaw Lu Kho, and P’nah Ner villages to move to either Htet Htu or Yan Myo Aung relocation sites by the 21st.
15 June LIB-599, BC Khin Moe Myint Oo, ordered villagers from Bhay Thu, Sa Hleh, and Pa Nah Ger villages to move either to Baw Di Gone or Tha Phay Gone by 20 June. The troops then mined the villages.
No villagers entered or left the area as a consequence of ERA.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 409
Report Number KORD-2007-11
Date Submitted: 13 March 2007
Location: South of Kyaukkyi, opposite Htet Htu Relocation Site
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Ler Doh Taw Kyauk Paw Lae Weh Kyee
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 6 374 2,638
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-350, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other Strategic Command 2
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-350, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 410
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-350, LIB-599 Infantry Battalions Other Strategic Command 2
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 411
KORD-2007-11 ERA Request Summary 13 March 2007
Demographics:
2,638 people (374 households) from 6 villages in 2 village tracts (Taw Kyauk Paw and Lae Weh Kyee), Kyaukkyi Township, Nyaunglebin District, Pegu Division (KNU: Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwi Htoo District).
Located south of Kyaukkyi, opposite side of Sittaung River from Htet Htu Relocation Site and west of the road to Shwegyin.
Rationale:
Lowland area under SPDC control (forced labor and extortion routine) and 1-hour walk from relocation site. Half of the population depended on irrigated paddy cultivation, one-fourth on cash crops (e.g. peanuts, sesame, and sugar cane), and one-fourth on day labor. Livestock (buffalo and cattle) used to be common but due to landmines this is no longer the case.
Troops active in the area: LIB-599 (based in Htet Htu and Yan Kyee Aung) and LIB-350 (based in Baw Ka Hta).
30 November 2006 travel ban imposed (no passes).
7 December patrols shot at villager from Kya Plaw Village en route to his farm and they threatened to so with anyone else found outside the settlements.
Fears of being shot kept villagers from going to their fields during the harvest, which has led to a serious food shortage. According to KORD, villages had to abandon at least 132 irrigated paddy fields (estimated yield 30,000 baskets), as well as 96 peanut, sugar cane, and sesame plantations.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 412
ERA Request 13 March 2007
Period:
30 November 2006 – 21 January 2007
Military Operations:
30 November Strategic Command #2, Commander Khin Maung Oo, from Kyaukkyi Town, instructed troops in Htet Htu, Yan Kyee Aung, and Baw Ka Hta, to impose a complete travel ban, including people who already had a pass. LIB-599 and LIB-350 began patrols in both village tracts, especially routes people commonly travel and the area around the road.
Villages affected: Upper Taw Kyauk Paw, Middle Taw Kyauk Paw, Lower Taw Kyauk Paw, Kya Plaw, Lae Weh Kyee, Po Ro No Pho, and several others [not identified] prevented from going to fields, plantations, and upland areas.
7 December Troops [not identified] shot at Kya Plaw villager, Saw [Name Redacted], while he was en route to farm. They then told villagers “that if some thing happened to someone those outside the village, they would not take any responsibility on the case.”
People, fearful of being shot, did not tend their fields or seek day labor. Weather and animals destroyed the harvest. Reported losses: see ERA summary.
Reason: To block communication between lowlands and highlanders, including the KNU, according to KORD.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Taw Kyauk Paw Upper Taw Kyauk Paw 70 506 2 Taw Kyauk Paw Middle Taw Kyauk Paw 53 342 3 Taw Kyauk Paw Lower Taw Kyauk Paw 112 752 4 Lae Weh Kyee Kya Plaw 44 330 5 Lae Weh Kyee Lae Weh Kyee 29 228 6 Lae Weh Kyee Po Ro No Pho 66 480 374 2,638
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 413
ERA Distribution Summary 20 September 2007
Demographics:
Distributed as requested. 852 children under 10 (371 girls and 481 boys), 835 females and 951 males over 10.
Logistics:
4 May – 25 June (53 days). Trip extremely risky since into SPDC controlled areas, many camps, temporary outposts and checkpoints. Team often traveled at night.
Military Situation Update:
Villagers in SPDC controlled areas subject to travel restrictions, forced labor, arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, extortion, looting. Troops now providing travel passes (1,500 kyat for 1 week).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 414
ERA Impact Assessment 4 March 2008
Market Impact:
Villages can access Kyaukkyi market but they are scared to bring rice past troops. Reported cases of interrogation and torture if suspected of transporting rice to KNLA. Villagers avoid troops whenever possible as a result.
Distribution did not affect local prices. However, travel restrictions and inflation have led to increase. Inability to grow crops, raise animals, and do day labor resulted in increased poverty and food insecurity.
Security Impact:
KNU taxes collected as per normal, but not ERA funds.
Local representative of MOC-21 called some villagers in and questioned them regarding where the distribution took place. Villagers said they did not know who gave the money, as they were dressed in plain clothing. No retaliatory action taken.
No conflict within or between villages and families over funds (including domestic violence or abuses); no people reported as leaving the area after receiving ERA.
13 June 2007 LIB-350, BC Zaw Aung, ordered villagers from Thu Ka Bi, Noh Poe, Htaw Lu Kho, and P’nah Ner to move to either Htet Htu or Yan Myo Aung Relocation Sites by 21 June.
15 June LIB-599, led by BC Khin Moe Myint Oo, ordered villagers from Bhay Thu, Sa Hleh, and Pa Nah Ger to move to either Baw Di Gone or Tha Phay Gone by 20 June. The troops then laid landmines to prevent their return.
19 June Tactical Command No. 2, under Southern Command, ordered military columns to burn down all the paddy huts in Noh Gaw, Kyaw Sa Reh, Pa Ta Lah, Weh Lah Daw, Leh Wei Kyi, and Thu Ka Bi Village Tracts. 2 boats and 2 bullock carts also destroyed. 2 villagers from each village tract “for recruitment.” Any of the village tracts that fail to comply had to pay a fine: 500,000 kyat/person. Pa Ta Lah had to pay a higher rate: 1,000,000 kyat/person.
30 July 2 villagers, Saw [Name Redacted] (30) and Saw [Name Redacted] (12), stepped on SPDC landmines near Sa Leh Village while looking for food. Troops [not specified] fined them 10,000 kyat each for the cost of the landmines.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 415
Report Number CIDKP-2007-09
Date Submitted: 6 April 2007
Location: East of Shwegyin River and west of Bilin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Shwegyin n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Hsaw Hti Loe Khi Ler Wah Hsaw Their Khi Htee Blah
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 18 503 4,241
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-21 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-223, LIB-230, LIB-237, LIB-349, LIB-350, LIB- 601 Infantry Battalions IB-47 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-11 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-212, LIB-214, LIB-522 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 416
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 417
CIDKP-2007-09 ERA Request Summary 6 April 2007
Demographics:
4,241 people (503 households) from 18 villages in Shwegyin Township, Nyaunglebin District, Pegu Division (KNU: Loe Khi, Ler Wah, Hsaw Ther Khi, and Htee Blah Village Tracts, Hsaw Hti Township, Kler Lwi Htoo District).
East of the Shwegyin River and west of the Bilin River. Htee Bla and Hsaw Ther Kli are the towns closest to Shwegyin (Ler Wah is predominantly lowland forest, while Loe Khi to the east is in the uplands). Villagers typically hide when troops approach.
Rationale:
September – October 2006 LIB-237 (approximately 250 troops and 80 prison porters) patrolled the area around Loe Khi, causing villagers to flee. Troops destroyed 14 farm plots, which would have produced 1,600 baskets of paddy, as well as 4 paddy barns and 9 huts. Villagers abandoned 25 plots, holding 1,500 baskets of paddy, and pests destroyed them.
November n.d. LIB-237 patrols in Loe Khi shot and wounded 1 civilian and burned 32 shelters and over 100 baskets of paddy. Villagers abandoned 80 farm plots, which wild animals damaged. Total losses estimated at 5,400 baskets of paddy.
November n.d. LIB-349 (300 troops and 100 prison porters) patrolled around Ler Wah for 18 days. Troops shot and wounded 2 civilians and destroyed 60 baskets of paddy. Villagers abandoned 25 irrigated farms and 6 upland plots. Paddy damaged by wild animals.
November n.d. LIB-230 (300 troops and 80 prison porters) patrolled around Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract. 2 civilians shot and wounded and about 2,400 baskets of paddy burnt.
November n.d. LIB-601 (300 troops) patrolled around Ksaw Ther Khi Village Tract for 15 days. Troops found and burnt 27 farm huts. Wild animals damaged 16 upland plots and 20 irrigated ones villagers abandoned during patrols.
November n.d. LIB-223 patrolled Htee Bla Village Tract for 13 days during which they burned 4 hiding sites. Pests damaged 36 upland rice farms prior to harvest while the villagers were hiding in fear.
During the first-half of 2006, patrols destroyed 5 barns holding 630 paddy baskets and another 119 barns holding over 8,300 baskets abandoned, as were 191 farm plots when villagers fled.
ERA Request 6 April 2007
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 418
Background:
Prior to 1974-1975 Four Cuts, people in Loe Khi, Ler Wah, Hsaw Ther Khi and Htee Bla Village Tracts generated income from betel nut, durian, dog fruit, and lemon orchards (see capitalizing on conflict). Some people had wet and upland paddy as well. Military operations destroyed villages, orchards, and fields and nearly everyone fled.
1997 offensive paddy cultivation and livestock targeted.
2002-2005 military operations less frequent/severe.
February-May 2006 troops burned 5 paddy barns (638 baskets of paddy). People abandoned 119 paddy barns (with 8,336 baskets of paddy) as well as 191 plots of paddy.
People in Loe Khi are sharing food with those in Ler Wah.
Military Operations:
Loe Khi Village Tract
17 September 2005 LIB-237 (250 troops and 80 prison porters) left Hgo Hga Loe.
19 September LIB-237 arrives in Po Lo Klo and divides into 3 columns. Column 1remained in Po Lo Klo, Column 2 entered Kaw Pa Hta (Thaw Hgeh Kho area), and Column 3 entered Ka Baw Khi (Ma Ta Nay Der area). Villagers fled and did not dare to return to homes or fields.
3 Upland fields in Hsaw Ro Kho area (est. production 400 baskets of paddy) rotted. 6 plots – animals and pests partially ate. Total losses estimated at 500 baskets of paddy.
Kaw Pa Hta (Thaw Hgeh Kho area) troops destroyed 2 upland paddy farms (approximately 190 baskets of paddy), 4 plots of paddy (would produce approximately 300 baskets of paddy) abandoned and two-thirds eaten/destroyed by wild animals.
May Ta Nay area troops destroyed 6 upland paddy areas (would produce 700 baskets of paddy, 3 plots (about 200 baskets)-two-thirds eaten / destroyed by animals. 9 further plots (about 500 baskets)-one-half eaten / destroyed.
During these operations, troops burnt: 3 paddy barns and 4 farm huts (Hsaw Ro Kho area), 3 paddy barns and 7 farm huts in Me Ta Nay Der, and 2 farm huts in Thaw Hgeh Kho. 4 October 2006 This column [battalions unknown] left Loe Khi Village Tract and entered Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract (Ka He Day area) to await food supplies at Htoo Day. 13 October 2006 LIB-350 (100 troops and 200 prison porters) arrives with food at Htoo Day.
14 October LIB-350 transports 11 wounded soldiers back to Shwegyin. LIB-237 rested at Htoo Day through 16th.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 419
17 October departs Htoo Day with 100 prison porters.
19 October Column 1 enters Htee Maw Ko Khi area, Column 2 enters Htee Maw Kwe Khi area, and Column 3 enters Hgi Klu Khi and Htee Ler Pah Hta area (Loe Khi Village Tract).
Htee Maw Kho Khi area: approximately 500 baskets of paddy (from 6 abandoned upland farms) completely eaten/destroyed by wild animals and two-thirds of 800 baskets (11 abandoned farms) eaten/destroyed.
Htee Maw Kwe Khi area: approximately 2,600 baskets of paddy (from 32 upland farms) completely eaten/destroyed by wild animals and about two-thirds of 2,400 baskets (39 plots) eaten/destroyed. Troops burned down 13 farm huts containing 34 baskets of paddy.
30 November LIB-350 troops shot and wounded [Name Redacted].
Hgi Klu Khi and Htee Ler Pah Hta areas: 2,000 baskets of paddy (31 upland paddy farms) completely eaten/destroyed by wild animals, two-thirds of the paddy on 12 plots partially eaten/destroyed. Troops burned down 19 huts containing 70 baskets. Troops also seized / destroyed farming implements.
Villagers who lost paddy fled to Thay Kho Hser Der and Kaw Mu Der Villages, and the residents shared food with them. “Actually in 2006 and until February 2007 the Burma army didn’t reach” [these two villages]. When troops arrived in Htee Maw Kho Khi, Htee Maw Kwe Khi, Hgi Klu Khi, and Htee Ler Pah Hta areas, some of the villagers in Thay Kho Hser Der and Kaw Mu Der went into hiding for 2-3 days, returning after soldiers withdrew. Soil in these areas is very poor: one basket of paddy planted only generates 6 baskets at harvest, so food shortages are now severe for everyone.
Ler Wah Village Tract
28 April 2006 MOC/OCH-21 enters Ler Wah Village Tract and took position at Ro Kar Soe. People doing upland farming in this area fled. 25 families (Ler Wah), 2 families (Mae Si) and 43 families (Kwee Loh) lost their paddy farms. Total to Kaw Mu Der, Thay Kho Hser Der, Kaw Mu Der, Htee Thoo Khi, Der Hgaw Kho Villages. Troop began construction on a road from Don Seik to Ro Kar Soe.
10 November LIB-349 (300 troops and 100 prison porters) departs for Ywa Myo.
12 November LIB-349 enters Htee Thoo Khi and Der Law Kho areas, divides into 3 columns and conducted patrols for 18 days in upland areas farmed by people from [Name Redacted], [Name Redacted], and [Name Redacted]: (6, 16, and 9 plots of paddy farm abandoned and destroyed, respectively). Troops found and destroyed 60 baskets belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] (Htee Ler Gaw Khi Village) and 24 tins of rice belonging to Saw [Name Redacted].
14 November Troops shot and wounded Saw [Name Redacted] (age 17) of Htee Mae Ka Lar Village and Saw [Name Redacted] (age 23) of Ler Wah Village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 420
Hgaw Khi and Ta Say Der - Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract
5 October LIB-237 withdrew from Saw Ro Kho, Thaw Hgeh Kho, and Me Ta Nay Der and entered Hgaw Khi area in Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract. Troops found and destroyed 58 baskets of rice and 83 baskets of paddy; 13 pigs and 73 chickens eaten; houses burnt or detached, as were dishes, cooking pots, baskets, etc.
Nya Li Pu area: 1,400 baskets (10 upland paddy farms) belonging to Hgaw Khi and Ta Say Der village tract destroyed. 2 paddy barns (170 baskets) belonging to Hgaw Khi villager found and burnt. During military operations, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 60) from Tay Say Der got sick and died; Naw [Name Redacted] delivered a baby in the jungle, but both died a few days later.
8 November LIB-230 (300 troops with 80 prison porters) patrols Per Day Pu, Hta Thi areas, where Ta Say Der and Hgaw Khi Villages maintain upland paddy fields, divided into 3 columns, and conducted operations. Troops shot and wounded Saw [Name Redacted] (age 32) and Saw [Name Redacted] (age 29) of Ta Say Der Village. Troops destroyed 10 upland farms (would produce about 1,200 baskets of paddy) belonging to Ta Saw Der villagers, 9 upland farms (would produce about 900 baskets) belonging to Hgaw Khi villagers, while 25 plots belonging to Ta Say Der Village and 2 plots belonging to Hgaw Khi villagers eaten by animals. These troops withdrew on 23 November, returning to Hgo Hga Loe camp.
War Pae Kwee – Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract
24 April 2006 MOC/OCH-21 entered the village tract and people fled to War Kay Lu area. Troops began construction on a road from Thank Seik through War Pae Kwee area to Ro Kar Soe. Troops placed at War Pae Kwee forcing 17 families with upland fields at Nya Pae Kwee to flee, losing their entire 2007 crop in the process. They scattered to Loe Khi and Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract.
Hsaw Oh Hta - Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tract
9 November LIB-601 (300 troops and 100 prison porters) divided into 3 columns: Column 1 patrolled area where Sraw Khi villagers have upland fields, Columns 2 and 3 entered the Hsaw Oh Hta area. Villagers fled to jungle. Troops planted landmines and 2 KNU soldiers stepped on them, and [one] lost leg. 9 landmines found and removed by soldiers, but people did not dare return. In Hsaw Oh Hta area: 32 upland farms (would produce about 2,800 baskets) completely eaten/destroyed by wild animals. Troops found and burnt 27 farm huts. Troops returned, after 15 days of patrols, to Su Mu Hta camp on 24 November.
Htee Bla Village Tract
13 November LIB-223 (200 troops and 80 prison porters), divided into 2 columns, and conducted operations for 13 days. Column 1 patrolled Ka Haw Khi area where Htee Bla villagers had upland fields; Column 2 patrolled Mae Bu Khi where Sraw Khi villagers have their fields. People fled and animals ate or destroyed 16 upland farms in Mae Bu Khi area and 20 upland
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 421
farms in Ka Haw Khi area (approximately 1,800 baskets total). Troops found and burnt 4 hiding sites, 50 viss salt poured on ground, and 700,000 kyat seized.
Hsaw Oh Khi
15 November IB-47 (180 troops and 80 prison porters) divided into 2 columns and conducted operations for 15 days. Column 2 patroled War Me Soe area where Htee Bla villagers have upland fields.
18 November Column 1 entered Pa Ta Khi … [not legible]. People fled and paddy eaten or destroyed by animals: 10 upland fields in Pa Ta Khi area would produce about 750 baskets of paddy) and 1 upland field in Ka War Min Soe area (about 90 baskets of paddy). Troops found and burned 9 farm huts and contents.
Villages in Loe Khi and Ler Wah received ERA for 3 months [on] 2 [occasions], and Hsaw Ther Khi and Htaa Bla did once in 2006. People are in urgent need of food for these reasons.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 422
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Loe Khi Htee Maw Kwe Khi 72 294 218 29 25 566 2 Loe Khi Htee Ler Pah Hta 43 135 125 16 23 299 3 Loe Khi Mee Ta Nay Der 19 66 64 6 6 142 4 Loe Khi Hsaw Roh Kho 9 32 37 4 3 76 5 Loe Khi Thaw Keh Kho 6 23 24 1 4 52 6 Loe Khi Loe Khi 17 23 24 1 4 52 7 Loe Khi Kaw Mu Der 44 169 177 17 18 381 8 Loe Khi Thay Kho Hser Der 58 228 207 29 18 381 9 Ler Wah Ler Wah 25 83 84 5 5 177 10 Ler Wah Mae Si 16 60 64 7 13 144 11 Ler Wah Htee Ler Khi 16 60 64 7 13 144 12 Ler Wah Htee Maw Ka Lo 9 33 35 5 3 76 13 Hsaw Ther Khi Ta Say Der 39 199 136 14 14 363 14 Hsaw Ther Khi War Pae Kwee 17 66 47 12 12 137 15 Hsaw Ther Khi Hsaw Oh Hta 39 210 139 35 36 420 16 Hsaw Ther Khi Hgaw Khi 17 80 62 12 8 162 17 Hteee Blah Htee Blah 36 139 123 24 13 299 18 Htee Blah Hsaw Oh Khi 21 58 74 12 11 155 503 2,007 1,759 241 234 4,241
People can buy rice from villagers with lowland fields in Mu Traw District, Keh Par Village Tract and a small market in Pay Kay Village Tract, and also from Papun town.
7,500 kyat / tin (February 2007)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 423
ERA Distribution Summary 1 September 2007
Demographics:
Assistance provided as requested. 475 children (234 girls, 241 boys) under 10 and 1,759 females and 2,007 males over 10.
Logistics:
30 May – 30 July 2007 (61 days). Security situation not good at some points; team used runners to communicate with Total instead of wireless to avoid detection.
Military Operations Update:
3 May 2007 LIB-212 (under LID-11) set up a military camp at Ta Ler Day, Ler Wah Village Tract.
9 May KNLA Battalion No. 7 and LIB-212 clash at Wah Pah Kwee Village, and one SPDC soldier wounded.
10 May KNLA Battalion No. 7 ambushes LIB-212 between Wah Pah Kwee and Ta Hoe Aw. One SPDC soldier killed and another wounded. KNLA soldier dropped walkie-talkie during withdrawal and SPDC retrieved it. SPDC patrols increased as a result of the fighting, especially in the Ta Hoe Aw and Hta Thee Kgo areas, where many Total hiding.
17 May LIB-214 (under LID-11) set up camp in Hree Thu Khi, Ler Wah Village Tract.
Both LIB conducted patrols in Ler Wah, Loe Khi, Saw Than Khi, and Wah Pah Kwee Village Tracts. 25 households abandoned 25 upland paddy farms (Ler Wah), 19 households abandoned 19 upland paddy farms (Loe Khi), and 17 households abandoned 17 upland paddy fields due to the patrols.
26 May LIB-522 (under LID-11) set up a camp in the Htee Bla Village Tract. Households abandoned 21 upland paddy farms and 15 fields [of the 21?] that needed weeding.
4 June KNLA Battalion No. 7 opens fire on troops camped in Wah May Soe [battalion not specified]. KNLA launched 15 mortar shells into SPDC camp. 3 SPDC troops died and 6 wounded.
5 June SPDC troops withdrew and returned to Baw Hse [Hsa] Khi.
26 June KNLA Battalion No. 7 troops provided security for Total from Wah Pah Kwee, Hsaw Ther Khi Village Tracts when they returned to gather their paddy. One KNLA soldier stepped on a landmine and lost his leg.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 424
Villagers abandoned more than 100 paddy fields. KNLA could not provide them with sufficient security, so villagers self-organized unarmed sentry and patrols while returning to secretly work their fields.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 425
Report Number CIDKP-2007-22
Date Submitted: 12 September 2007
Location: East of Sittaung River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukygi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwi Htoo Ler Doh n.a.
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 5 432 3,643
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-215, LIB-218, LIB-242, LIB-349, LIB-350, LIB- 599 Infantry Battalions IB-57 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 426
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 427
CIDKP-2007-22 ERA Request Summary 12 September 2007
Demographics:
3,643 people from five villages in Kyaukkyi (Ler Doh) Township, Nyaunglebin
Villages:
Ma Pi Po, Ma Pi Doh, Klaw Maw Kho, Dah Ka Lar (Klaw Maw) and Dah Kah Lar (Tet Htu), all of which are scattered to the east of the Sittang River.
Background:
Prior to 1974-1975 the area was under complete KNU control. Four-Cuts campaign led to the forced relocation of the villages [Ma Pi Po, Ma Pi Doh, Klaw Maw Kho, Dah Ka Lar (Klaw Maw) and Dah Kah Lar (Tet Htu)] targeted for ERA. Most of the people fled to the remote upland regions, though some went to the plains.
Target area is a mixed administration zone (brown).
Livelihoods:
Diverse prior to 1974-1975 (paddy, durian, dog fruit, lime, betel, etc.). Now most rely on upland farming and some charcoal production, day labor, etc. People who went to relocation sites have no stable income (handicrafts, bamboo weaving, wage labor, etc.). Forced labor, extortion, theft, etc. are commonplace, as is food insecurity because troops prevented their return.
Military Units:
LIB-215 and LIB-218, led by Major Kyaw Kyaw, took positions in the following areas and to provide security for road construction: Ro Kar Soe, Kyo Lo Kyi, Saw Beh Der.
LIB-218 is active in western Kaw Loe Klo area, and people are not permitted in the jungle between Saw Baw Der and Htee Daw Lay. Troops based at Baw Ka Hta, Kyow Kyi, Htee Htu, and Ya Moe Aung patrol Ler Doh and Shew [Shwe] Kyi. Villagers are not permitted to spend the night in their work sites, but must return before dark.
1 January 2007 Tactical Commander, based in Ler Doh, orders villagers in Ma Pi and Pa Deh Gaw to provide troops with 1 tin paddy/house.
1 January LIB-349 extorts 65,000 per village: Klaw Maw Ko, Dah Ka Lar, Let Kaw Wa, Ma Eu Bin, Nyaung Tar, Neh Yu, Ku Lu, Thoo Ka Be, A’Leh Kyun, Ma Pi Doh, Mai Pi Pi. Total: 715,000 kyat.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 428
2 January MOC-16, LIB-242 Commander Than Naing, ordered 53 people from Neh Yu – Ku Lu to porter food to Ler Doh. 22 did, but 31 did not and they had to pay 2,500 kyat/person fine, totaling 77,500 kyat.
15 January LIB-599 ordered people residing in the relocation camp return home and disassemble their houses, and the bring the materials back. If they decided to sell their parts, villages must give 20,000 kyat to the LIB.
15 January Tactical Commander, based in Ler Doh, to sell 20,000 tins of paddy, but pays only two-thirds of the current market price.
17 January LIB-599 entered Ma Pi and Pa Deh Gaw Village Tracts and burned down farm houses [paddy huts], and requisitioned 2 bullock carts/village to transport bamboo to their military camp.
1 February LID [not identified], under Tactical Commander Major Khin Maung Oo, ordered the following villages to provide roofing leaves worth 970,000 kyat: Ma Pi, Pa Deh Gaw, Thoo Ka Be, Ma Eu Bin, Ka Moe Eh, Let Weh Gyi, Wet Law Daw, Aye Net, and Kyun Gyi. 2nd BC, Major Thet Khaing, commanded troops to set a checkpoint on the Sittaung Bridge, and collect: 1,000 kyat/cart, 35,000 kyat if carry beans, and 5[0],000 kyat if timber [or charcoal?].
3 February LIB-349 shoots into Kyun Kyi Village following a skirmish with KNU. Naw [Name Redacted] (age 20), daughter of Saw [Name Redacted], was wounded in the thigh.
5 February LIB-349, BC Than Htite, extorts money (1,200,000 kyat) to buy a motorbike from Ma Pi, Pa Deh Gaw, Ma Eu Bin, and Let Wehy Gyi Villages. Residents also required a buy a travel pass (2,000 kyat) to go to their worksites, good for 10 days.
5 February LIB-349, Captain Myo Hlaing Win, from Kyun Kyi camp, said that “villagers from Kyun Kyi shot [at?] him, then killed one pig, and painted 10 villagers with the blood of pig, then asked the villagers to change their name then they were all released.” He also extorted 200,000 kyat/person from men.
5 February LIB-349, 2nd BC Major Thet Khaing, entered K’the Myaung area and set fire to the forest. Villagers lost 10 acres of beans.
10 February Tactical Commander Major Zaw Win Myit demanded roof leaves (200 kyat/leaf) but wanted payment instead. People from the following villages paid the equivalent of: Pa Deh Gaw (1,200 pieces), Ma Eu Bin (1,000), Pa Ta Lar (1,500), Hin Tha Win Village Tract (500). Total: 4,400 pieces at 840,000 kyat.
1 July IB-57, BC Min Kyaw Naing, ordered villagers from Shwe Taw, Ma Eu Bin, Let Kaw Wa, Shu Khin Tha Ya, and Kaw Tha Say to relocate to Pa Aye. Villagers who later returned to their homes had to pay 3,500 kyat/month [i.e. “rent”] to IB-57.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 429
1 July Southern Command Commander ordered his troops to burn down all of the farmhouses [paddy huts?] in Ma Pi, Ma Eun Bin, Leh Wei Gyi, Ga Moe Eh, Thoo Ka Bee, Pa Deh Gaw, Daw Moak, Now Gaw, Wet La Daw, and Pa Ta Lar.
18 July LIB-350 began implementing the above order. All told, the troops burned between 600- 700 paddy huts plus 2 ox carts and 3 boats.
LIB-350 demanded 2 recruits or 500,000 kyat/person if no one volunteered to join the army.
30 July Saw [Name Redacted] (age 32) from Pago Village stepped on an SPDC landmine while foraging for vegetables and collecting bamboo in the forest. He lost one leg. The SPDC said it was a KNLA mine and then fined him 15,000 kyat.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M<5 F<5 M>5 F>5 Total 1 Ma Pi Ma Pi Po 109 23 21 430 452 926 2 Ma Pi Ma Pi Doh 37 11 13 136 136 307 3 Pa Deh Gaw Klaw Maw Kho 178 47 48 682 682 1,475 4 Pa Deh Gaw Dah Ka Lar 33 10 17 115 114 256 (Klaw Maw) 5 Pa Deh Gaw Dah Ka Lar 75 24 30 304 321 679 (Tet Htu) 432 115 129 1,667 1,732 3,643
12,000 kyat/tin, which can be purchased in Kyaukkyi Town and surrounding villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 430
Report Number CIDKP-2008-04
Date Submitted: 16 January 2008
Location: n.a.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwe Htoo Ler Doh Wet La Daw
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 5 399 3,429
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-349, LIB-350, LIB-351 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 431
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 432
CIDKP-2008-04 ERA Request Summary 16 January 2008
Demographics:
3,429 people (399 households) from 5 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Wet La Daw Village Tract, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwe Htoo District).
331 children under 5 (180 girls and 151 boys); 1,504 females and 1,594 males over 5.
Mixed administration area.
Rationale:
LIB-349 and LIB-530 operating in the area, killing villagers, demanding food and money, burning farm huts, restricting travel, and forcing villagers to porter supplies.
7 June 2007 LIB-350 soldiers shot and killed 2 people from Kaw Tha Say Village while they were collecting dog fruit in the jungle.
18 July LIB-349 burned down 248 farm huts, 3 bullock carts, and 1 boat belonging to civilians to undermine support for KNLA.
19 July LIB-349 forced villages to “buy” a motorcycle (1.2 million kyat) for the BC.
19 September LIB-349 forced villagers to sell 3,000 basket of paddy for just 1,000 kyat/basket; market price 2,600 kyat.
No date LIB-349 troops extorted 9 million kyat from the 5 affected villages in liue of conscripting 2 people/village. Villagers had to sell livestock and property to avoid conscription.
Background:
Before 1974-1975 Wet La Daw Village Tract under total KNU control. Following Four Cuts, villages were forced to relocate to official relocation sites or predetermined villages. Travel restrictions and patrols made it difficult/dangerous to collect fruit, bamboo, and other forest products.
2005 relocations: people forced to disassemble homes and move to the site. Houses limited to 27 feet in length and 18 feet in width. Residents don’t have steady jobs, except those who still had paddy fields. Forced labor, extortion, etc. commonplace. People have to pawn property (animals, jewelry, etc.) to pay “fees” if they don’t have the cash.
Military Operations
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 433
1 May 2007 LIB-349, led by BC Than Htite, informed residents of Wet La Daw, Tet Htu, Kyun Bin Su, and Hsaw Mu Theh Villages that a travel pass (1,000 kyat for 10 days) required to work in their fields and orchards. Travel restriction went into effect on 10 May.
7 June LIB-350 shot and killed 2 villages from Kaw Tha Say while they were collecting dog fruit in the forest: 1) [Name Redacted] (age 22), son of [Name Redacted]; and 2) [Name Redacted] (age 15), son of [Name Redacted].
18 July Southern Command orders LIB-349 to burn down all of the paddy huts that have roofs: 80 in Wet La Daw, 70 Het Htu, 48 Hsaw Mu Theh, and 50 in Kyun Bin Su destroyed. Justification given: KNLA could use them as shelters and positions from which to fire at them. Troops also burnt 3 bullock carts and one boat in Wet La Daw, combined value: approximately 1,000,000 kyat.
18 July LIB-349, BC Than Htite, ordered each village to provide recruits. Villages with 60 or more households had to send 2 recruits for the army and 2 for the militia each (namely Wet La Daw and Tat Htu); Kyun Bin Su and Hsaw Mu smaller so 1 solider and 1 militia member each. If there were no volunteers, villagers had to pay 1,000,000 kyat per soldier and 500,000 kyat per militia member. No one wanted to go, so the 4 villages sold property and paid a total of 9,000,000 kyat in fines.
19 July LIB-349, BC Than Htite, ordered villages from the above 4 to buy a motorcycle (1,200,000 kyat).
20 August LIB-351, from Kyaukkyi Town, demanded porters to transport supplies from the town to Mu Theh: Wet La Daw (80 people), Tet Htu (90 people), Kyi Bin Su (40 people), and Hsaw Mu Theh (30 people). If anyone was absent, the village had to pay 10,000 kyat/person as a fine.
19 September LIB-349, led by BC Than Htay, informed residents of the above villages that they had to sell paddy to the military: Tet Htu and Wet La Daw (1,000 baskets each), Kyun Bin Su and Hsaw Mu Theh (500 baskets each) = 3,000 total. LIB-349 paid only 1,000 kyat/basket, not the market price, 2,600 kyat.
Trip estimated to require 4-6 weeks due to location.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 434
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M<5 F<5 M>5 F>5 Total 1 Wet La Daw Wet La Daw 145 56 29 637 532 1,254 2 Wet La Daw Hsaw Mu Theh 57 20 14 267 271 572 3 Wet La Daw Tae Htu 97 33 87 373 335 828 4 Wet La Daw Kyun Bin Su 60 19 33 209 259 520 5 Wet La Daw We La Daw Ka Na Su 40 23 17 108 105 253 399 151 180 1,594 1,504 3,429
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 435
Report Number CIDKP-2008-07
Date Submitted: 4 April 2008
Location: Lowland area near Kyaukkyi and Shwegyin Towns.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kyaukkyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Ler Doh Swe Di Noh Gaw
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 7 320 2,592
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-349, LIB-590 Infantry Battalions IB-57 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 436
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 437
CIDKP-2008-07 (Revised) ERA Request Summary 4 April 2008
Demographics:
2,592 people (320 households) from 7 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Devision (KNU: Swe Di and Noh Gaw Village Tracts, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District).
360 children (191 girls and 169 boys) under 5; 1,286 females and 1,266 males over 5.
Mixed administration area. Lowlands near the road between Kyaukkyi and Shwegyin Towns.
Rationale:
26 June 2007 IB-57 ordered 5 villages to return to their former villages, pay 3,500 kyat/household/month and stay within the immediate area. People were forbidden from staying overnight in paddy fields or former relocation sites.
18 July IB-57 ordered to burn all farm huts in the area. 248 destroyed. Travel restrictions and burning meant villagers not able to care for 366 acres of paddy, destroyed by pests and flooding.
December travel restrictions reduced. Day passes= 1,000 kyat/person.
11 August IB-57 forces villagers to sell paddy at 1,000 kyat/basket, 33% below market price.
11 August LIB-349 orders 1 person/household across 5 village tracts to clean the airfield between Kyo Kyi and Hin Thar Wine Villages. Households that did not participate fined 50,000 kyat each. Each villager forced to pay 500 kyat to cover soldier’s lunch during task.
August 90 villagers portered food supplies from Shwegyin to Kyaukkyi. People fined 10,000 kyat if did not report to duty.
December LIB-349 forced 7 targeted villages to sell more than 20 cattle and pay more than 800,000 kyat to rebuild the Klaw Maw Pagoda.
December and January LIB-349 destroyed 5 churches and 2 mission schools. 6 Muslim families “expelled” from the village tract.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 438
ERA Request 16 January 2008
Background and Livelihood:
Swe Di and Noh Gaw Village Tracts, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District. Mixed administration area.
Pre- 1974-1975 paddy cultivation with seasonal food collection, wage labor, etc. for income and small trade. Work and travel in the jungle very dangerous if patrols nearby. Villages relocated after Four Cuts. Life very difficult for those in SPDC-controlled areas: extortion, illegal fees, forced labor, etc.
Military Operations:
15 February 2007 IB-57, led by BC Min Kyaw Kyar, orders lower Noh Gaw, upper Noh Gaw, and Pae Thaw to relocate to Klaw Maw by 30 February. Villagers requested not to move. BC said that they would have to pay 1,000,000 kyat/village to stay. The villages collected the funds, paying 3,000,000 kyat total.
26 June IB-57, led by BC Min Kyaw Kyar, orders Tone Ta Tar, Kaw That Say, Swe Di, Shwe Tar, and Taung Thu Gone villagers to return to their own village. Each house had to pay 3,500 kyat/month “rent.” Everyone had to return [unclear]. Villagers not permitted to return to the former relocation site, their own paddy fields, stay overnight in huts. “If found all will be shot and killed.”
18 July IB-57, based in Baw Ka Hta, orders troops to burn down all farm huts with roofs: Swe Di (48), Kaw Tha Say (68), Tone Ta Tar (60), Noh Gaw (120). Did so on the grounds that KNU will use the huts for bases and shoot at SPDC troops.
Crops destroyed by pigs, cattle, termites, etc., water erosion ruined berms. Losses in acres: Swe Di (110), Kaw Tha Say (73), Lower Noh Gaw (75), and Upper Noh Gaw (63), Tone Ta Tar (20), Taung Thu Gone 25). Total: 366 acres. [Note: one acre of paddy yields about 100 tins of paddy in this area.]
30 July IB-57, led by BC Min Kyaw Kyar, orders villagers from Swe Di, Wet La Daw, and Thoo Ka Bee to buy one basket of paddy/household at 1,000 kyat. Market price is 3,000 kyat / lost 2,000 kyat per basket.
11 August LIB-349, BC Than Htite, orders villagers in Swe Di, Wet La Daw, Noh Gaw, and Thoo Ka Bee to clean the airfield, located between Kyo Kyi and Hin Thaw Wine. One person/household must report with own food or pay 50,000 kyat fine. Troops also demanded 400 kyat/household in all 4 village tracts to pay for soldiers’ lunch.
12 August IB-57, led by BC Min Kyaw Kyar, demanded 1 pig and 1 tin of paddy from Kaw Tha Say, Tone Ta Tar, Swe Di, Shwe Tar, and Taung Thu Gone each.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 439
14 August IB-57, from Baw Ka Hta, demanded villagers to porter food supplied from Shwegyin to Kyaukkyi: Kaw Tha Say (40), Tone Ta Tar (20), Swe Di (20), Shwe Tar (10). Fine 10,000 kyat/person for every person short
Military Operations Update:
2 December 2007 LIB-590, BC Ko Ko Oo, demanded 100,000 kyat from the villages in Swe Di Village Tract. They payed 400,000 kyat total.
9 December LIB-349, BC Zaw Tun, demanded 200,000 kyat from Swe Di, 100,000 kyat from Kaw Tha Say, 200,000 kyat from Tone Ta Tar, 100,000 kyat from Shwe Tar, 100,000 kyat from Upper Noh Gaw, 200,000 kyat from Lower Noh Gaw, 50,000 kyat from Pae Thaw, 100,000 kyat from Thaung Thu Gone to rebuild the Klaw Maw Pagoda.
11 December LIB-349 troops ordered villagers to tear down 5 Christian churches in Swe Di, Klaw Maw, Pa Deh Gaw, Wet La Daw, and Kaw Tha Say.
21 December LIB-349 impose travel restrictions: 1,000 kyat/day to go to farm.
15 January 2008 LIB-349 expelled 6 Muslim families from Swe Di Village Tract and had villagers tear down 2 primary schools established by Christians.
27 February TOC-Commander Khin Maung Oo, based in Kyaukkyi, orders all village heads and secretaries in the area to ensure that everyone 18 and older votes yes during the May referendum. Anyone who misses it [i.e. fails to do so], fined 200,000 kyat.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total Tract 1 Swe Di Swe Di 41 161 162 30 34 387 2 Swe Di Kaw Tha Say 121 366 317 54 62 799 3 Swe Di Tone Ta Tar 28 121 126 10 18 275 4 Swe Di Shwe Tar 54 175 207 25 19 426 5 Noh Gaw Upper Noh Gaw 25 109 104 10 15 238 6 Noh Gaw Lower Now Gah 35 128 165 6 21 320 7 Noh Gaw Pae Thaw 16 64 66 11 5 146 8 Noh Gaw Taung Taung Thu 50 145 139 22 17 320 Gone 370 1,266 1,286 169 191 2,912
12,000 kyat/ tin and can be bought in Shwegyin and Kyaukkyi Towns.
Trip expected to take 4-6 weeks.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 440
Report Number CIDKP-2008-13
Date Submitted: 25 August 2008
Location: n.a.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Bago Nyaunglebin Kaukgyi n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Kler Lwee Htoo Ler Doh Hgeh Kar Kho Maw Bwe Khi Thay Waw Der
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 6 280 2,667
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-111, LIB-351, LIB-599, LIB-602 Infantry Battalions IB-60 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 441
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 442
CIDKP-2008-13 (Revised) ERA Request Summary 25 August 2008
Demographics:
2,667 people (280 households) from 6 villages in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division (KNU: Hgeh Kar Kho, Maw Bwe Khi, and Thay Waw Der Village Tracts, Ler Doh Township, Kler Lwee Htoo District).
352 children (176 girls and 176 boys under the age of 5), 1,148 females and 1,167 males over 5.
Mixed administration area.
Rationale:
LIB-111 and LIB-599 operating in these 3 village tracts.
5 December 2007 Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract SPDC truck destroyed by KNU landmine, leaving 2 soldiers dead. Troops arrested 5 people as KNU sympathizers until 500,000 kyat ransom paid.
January Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract troops impose travel ban (10 days). Pests damaged crops, 340 baskets of paddy lost.
15 January Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract LIB-111 forced 100 villagers to porter food supplies from Kyaukkyi to Mu Theh frontline camp. KNLA seized the supplies en route. As a result, troops forced the villagers to do the trip over, which took another 4 days.
23 January Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract troops forced 52 villagers to build a new camp, which took 13 days.
5 February Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract KNLA ambushed a LIB-20 column and killed 8 soldiers. Troops then shelled 13 mortar rounds in Hgeh Kar Kho Village, destroying 3 houses. 3 buffalos and 2 goats killed.
December 2007 Maw Bwe Khi and Thay Waw Der Village Tract LIB-599 imposes strict travel restrictions, but relaxed them in January 2008. Daily passes (500 kyat/day) became available. Daily wage is 700 kyat in the area.
January 2008 Maw Bwe Khi and Thay Waw Der Village Tracts LIB-599 orders each household to provide a laborer for 4 days to build a military camp or pay a 15,000 kyat absentee fine. Each household was also forced to give 3,000 kyat to the battalion to breed pigs. Troops forced 155 villagers to porter food supplied to remote SPDC camps later that month. February Maw Bwe Khi and Thay Waw Der Village Tracts LIB-599 forced 205 villagers to porter food rations to frontline camps for 3 days. They also forced villagers to sell 2,140 baskets
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 443
of paddy at 50% of market value, which represented a new loss of over 7 million kyat for the villagers.
Additional Information:
April 13 Troops [not specified] forced 150 villagers from Hgeh Kar Kho to porter military supplies to remote frontline camps.
14 April Troops [not specified] in Thay Waw Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts forced 100 villagers to clean the car road. n.d. April KNU ambushed LIB-[not specified] on the car road. Left 5 SPDC troops dead and 9 wounded. They arrested the Hgeh Kar Kho village headman and a villager they alleged to be KNU supporters. They were ransomed for 600,000 kyat, which villagers paid by selling livestock and collecting money from all the residents.
24 April Clash between KNLA and SPDC in Thay Waw Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts area. IB-60 imposed travel restrictions, captured 7 villagers who were out cutting bamboo, accusing them of having contact with the KNU. They sentenced the men to death unless others could pay a 250,000 kyat ransom for each person. The men taken to Toungoo Prison and given a 2-year sentence.
29 April LIB-602 shot and killed a villager, who they accused of breaking the travel restrictions while gathering forest products. Another villager escaped. None of the other villagers dared to enter the forest for more than one month.
May and June Troops [not specified] forced 50 villagers to build military camps, 45 to porter, and extorted 7,000 kyat/household in Hgher Kar Kho for cyclone victims.
26 June IB-60 extorted 7,000 kyat/household in Thay Waw Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts to assist cyclone victims.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 444
ERA Request 25 August 2008
Background:
Before 1974-1975 village tracts under complete KNU control. Villages in the village tracts forced to relocate either to SPDC controlled sites or “defined” [concentrated?] villages. Some did, but others went to town or the hill regions. Hgeh Ker Kho was ordered to relocate to Mu Theh, Maw Bwe Khi to Pa Nar Ger (Kweh Chan), and Thay Waw Der to Pitu – Sa Leh.
Prior to the Four Cuts residents grew paddy and collected/grew durian, dog fruit, betel nut, etc. to earn income. Following relocations they had to abandon their fields and orchards. Some people rented land from surrounding villages. Others became day laborers, while still others did handicraft production, small-scale trading, etc. Travel restrictions did not permit people to go the jungle so collecting forest products very dangerous. Many families sent their children to town or cities to find jobs to send money home. Most of them do not have permanent jobs, however.
People in SPDC controlled areas: forced labor, fees/taxes, porter, extortion, etc., forcing them to sell property to pay upon demand. Food security declined as a result.
Military Units:
LIB-111, led by BC Aung Khin Moe
LIB-599, led by BC Win Thein Thun (patrols Hgeh Kar Kho, Thay Waw Der, and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts.)
Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract:
5 December 2007 SPDC truck hit landmine on Mu Theh Road. Drive and 2 soldiers killed. All 6 fuel tanks burnt. LIB-111 BC Aung Khin Moe accused Hgeh Kar Kho villagers of helping the KNLA. He arrested: 1) [Name Redacted] (age 53), 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 50), 3) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 35), 4) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 31), and Saw [Name Redacted] (age 43). Troops beat them severely and later demanded 100,000 kyat ransom for each person. The village head gathered 500,000 kyat from the residents (who had to see 3 pigs as well) to obtain their release. [Name Redacted] was seriously injured and could not walk at the time ERA request written. Troops imposed travel restrictions: no one allowed to leave the village for 10 days. Cattle and pigs ate much of the paddy, which was ready for harvest. 3 fields, normally produce 450 baskets, had only 150 baskets recovered (i.e. lost 341 baskets).
15 January 2008 LIB-111 BC forced 100 people to porter food (1 person/household). KNLA met the villagers en route and “destroyed” [the food]. Villagers returned, reported the incident, and the BC forced them to carry another load. Total: 4 days. 23 January LIB-111 forced 52 people from the village tract to build a new camp at Ku Thay Soe. Total: 13 days.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 445
5 February KNLA troops ambushed a column of LIB-20. 8 soldiers killed and 4 wounded. 8 guns seized. Troops from Ka Baw Soe fired heavy weapons into the villages. 13 shells landed in Hgeh Kar Kho Village. 3 houses belonging to Naw [Name Redacted], Saw [Name Redacted], and [Name Redacted] were destroyed. 3 buffalos and 2 goats killed as well.
Thay War Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts
3 December 2007 SPDC truck destroyed by KNU mine between Hsaw Mee Lu and Kyaukkyi. LIB-599 BC Win Thein Tun banned villagers in both village tracts from working outside their villages. “If saw will be shot dead, people weren’t able to work for one month.”
1 January 2008 LIB-599 BC Win Thein Tun permits people to obtain a travel pass (500 kyat/day). If the person wants to say over night (100 kyat). The day wage in the area is 700 kyat.
18 January LIB-599 troops demand 3,000 kyat/household from villages to pay for pig raising.
23 January LIB-599 BC Win Thein Tun demands 1 person/household from both village tracts to help build a camp at Shwe Lar Taung. 15,000 kyat fine if fail to show up. People had to work for 4 days.
24 January LIB-599 demand 75 people from Thay Waw Der Village Tract and 80 people from the Maw Bwe Khi Village Tract porter food supplies from Kyaukkyi – Kaw Pla Lay Kho military camp.
12 February LIB-599 demand that 95 people from Thay Waw Der Village Tract and 110 people from Maw Bwe Khi Village Tract porter food from Kyaukkyi to Tha Yet Pin military camp. It took 3 days.
17 February LIB-599 ordered villagers to buy paddy from them. That Waw Der Village Tract residents had to buy 1,190 baskets of paddy and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tract residents had to buy 950 baskets of paddy. Troops met with village heads in advance to discuss which residents could pay in paddy, which could pay in money, and which would have to borrow from others and pay later. Mark cost per basket set at 7,000 kyat, but LIB-599 only paid 3,500 kyat/basket. People lost 7,490,000 kyat.
Most people survive from day-to-day so the lost of food and money is an immense burden.
Update:
Hgeh Kar Kho Village Tract:
13 April LIB-351 demands 150 people from Hgeh Kar Kho to porter supplies for LIB-602, from Kyaukkyi to Mu Theh camp. Villagers had to carry their own food and the trip lasted 3 days.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 446
21 April KNLA ambushed LIB-602 on the car road between Hgeh Kar Kho and Thway Bo Plaw. 5 SPDC soldiers killed and 9 wounded. That evening LIB-602 arrested Hgah Kar Kho village head (Saw [Name Redacted]) and his friend (Saw [Name Redacted]). They took them back to camp, accused them of providing information to KNLA, and sentenced them to death. Villagers could pay 300,000/person to spare their lives. Villagers sold one buffalo (350,000 kyat) and collected the rest in cash to have them released. Travel ban on trips to jungle imposed.
29 April LIB-602 shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] and wounded [Name Redacted] (who escaped) while they were herding cattle in the lower part of Hgeh Kar Kho. “They were shot without any question.” [i.e. shot on sight]. So villagers did not dare to gather vegetables, cut bamboo, etc. they need for income for one month.
3 May LIB-602 forced 50 people from Hgeh Kar Kho to build a military camp at Ku Thay Soe. Villagers had to bring their own food and work for 5 days.
29 May LIB-602, Company Commander Khin Maung Shwe, based in Ku Thay Soe, stated that the Tactical Commander asked from every household to donate 7,000 kyat for cyclone victims in the delta. Everyone had to pay.
5 June LIB-602, Company Commander Khin Maung Shwe ordered 45 Hgeh Kar Kho villagers to porter military supplies from Mu Theh to Pau Kay Kho. The porters had to bring their own food.
Thay Waw Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts
10 April IB-60, BC Zaw Lin, and troops entered both village tracts and instructed everyone to vote yes on the referendum. Anyone who refused would be fined 100,000 kyat and jailed for 3 years.
14 April IB-60 ordered 30 people from Maw Bwe Khi, 15 from Pa Nar Ger, 15 from Thay Tar, 40 each from Sa Leh and Pae Tu to clean the road (50 yards on both sides) from Than Bo to Hsaw Mee Lu. People had to bring their own food.
24 April KNLA and SPDC [IB-60?] firefight between Myeni Gone and Sa Leh. 3 SPDC soldiers killed and 1 wounded, and 1 KNLA killed. Troops imposed travel ban on trips to the jungle. “If saw, will be shot dead.”
6 June Because people are dependent on forest products for income, they went anyway. IB-60 troops, led by Sergeant Hla Than, captured 7 people: 1) Saw [Name Redacted], 2) Naw [Name Redacted], 3) Saw [Name Redacted], 4) Naw [Name Redacted] from Maw Bwe Khee; and 5) Saw [Name Redacted], 6) Saw [Name Redacted], and 7) Saw [Name Redacted] from Sa Leh Village. Troops beat them severely and detained in camp. IB-60 said they went to the jungle to contact the KNLA and would, therefore, be sentenced to death. Villagers appealed for their lives. Troops said 250,000 kyat/person (1,750,000 total) for their release. One villager from Maw Bwe Khi sold a buffalo and one cow, and a Thay Waw Der villager sold 2 cows. IB-60 said they
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 447
would not be killed after receiving the money, but they would still be imprisoned for 2 years in the Toungoo jail.
26 May IB-60, BC Zaw Lin, ordered everyone in Thay Waw Der and Maw Bwe Khi Village Tracts to pay 7,000 kyat/household to help cyclone victims.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hgeh Kar Kho Hgeh Kar Kho 61 254 266 50 58 628 2 Maw Bwe Khi Maw Bwe Khi 62 273 238 27 22 560 3 Maw Bwe Khi Pa Nar Gar 41 108 105 23 17 253 4 Maw Bwe Khi Thay Tar 30 147 141 15 18 321 5 Thay Waw Der Sa Leh 69 306 323 53 52 734 6 Thay Waw Der Pae Tu 17 79 75 8 9 171 280 1,167 1,148 176 176 2,667
Market price: 12,000 kyat/tin and can be bought in Kyaukkyi Town.
Trip 4-6 weeks in length.
Interview 3 (19 June 2008)
4 camps nearby: Wet Min Nyi Naung, Than Bo, Kyauk Taung, and Yae Gate Sit Say Gon.
KNU: They frequently come to the area—sometimes 6-7 people, other times 10-20. Usually for only a short visit, though they sometimes spend the night (only 1).
KNU ask about SPDC activities. They sometimes take photos of our village and ask about SPDC messages to the village. Sometimes there are firefights shortly after they leave and/or SPDC enters the village and blames us and “gives us problem.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 448
Appendix D Hpapun Township (Hpapun District, Kayin State)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 449
Report Number KORD-2006-05
Date Submitted: 22 April 2006
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., west Yunzalin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Ler Mu Plaw Saw Mu Plaw Khay Pu
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 4 162 1,169
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-336, LIB-522 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-15 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 450
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a Military Operations Command n.a Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 451
KORD-2006-05 ERA Request Summary 22 April 2006
Demographics:
1,169 people (162 households) from 4 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Ler Mu Plaw and Saw Mu Plaw Village Tracts, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District).
North of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road, west of the Yunzalin River, and east of the Pegu Division border. Free-fire zone so villagers typically hide whenever SPDC patrols approach.
Rationale:
LIB-522 and LIB-363 (OCH-16) divided into 4 columns and patrolled the affected area from 7 – 27 March 2006. Patrols coincided with period when villagers would normally be burning and clearing plots of land for upland rice cultivation.
Villagers fled and remained in hiding due to fear of landmines.
During patrols “indiscriminate gunfire” kills 5 villagers and wounds 2.
IDPs fled, leaving behind 2,500 baskets of paddy and 50 baskets of rice (equivalent to 3 month supply for 600 people), which troops then burnt. The status of food cached in paddy barns and elsewhere not currently known. IDPs are not yet able to return and verify their property losses.
OCH-10 dispatched 4 more battalions [not specified] to the area on the 4th of April, after KORD conducted the needs assessment.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 452
ERA Request 22 April 2006
Location:
Lew Mu Plaw and Saw Mu Plaw Village Tracts of Lu Thaw Township, which borders the northern part of Kler Lwi Htu District and located in the north-east of Mu Theh. Highland area
Dates:
17-27 of March, 2006
Military Units:
LIB-522 and LIB-336 (OCH-16)
Military Operations:
7 March LIB-522 left Mu Theh military camp and patrolled the Khae Ke Kho area in Mu Traw District where IDPs frequently hide. The troops remained in the area for 2 nights.
8 March LIB-336 departed from Paw Khay Kho military camp to “patrol and clear” places in Thae Hsa Khee and Saw Mu Plaw, located near the border of Mu Traw and Kler Lwi Htu Districts. LIB-336 divided into 2 columns and conducted operations there for 20 days and then returned to Ler Doh camp.
9 March LIB-522 began patrols in the Wah Do Kho area. They lasted 2 days.
11 March LIB-522 moved to Pwo Pweh Kyo and then divided into 2 columns to “patrol and clear the area.” Afterwards LIB-522 moved back to Kaw Lah Wah Lu military camp, located in Kler Lwi Htu District.
Villages fled into the deep jungle during these operations without sufficient food. (Timing coincided with clearing, burning, and sowing season.) Other villagers (non-IDPs) helped provide them with some food even though they did not have enough for themselves. So, they are experiencing serious food shortages as well. Everyone is eating boiled rice and supplementing it with forest products. Illness is a major problem due to the lack of shelter.
SPDC troops [not specified] killed 5 villagers: 1) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 30); 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 20); 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (age 25); 4) Saw [Name Redacted] (age 25); and 5) Saw [Name Redacted] (18). 2 others [not named] wounded by troops.
According to local sources 2,500 baskets of paddy and 50 baskets of rice burnt by SPDC troops. 4 April OCH-10 sent 4 battalions to Ler Mu Plaw and Saw Mu Plaw. Tactical Command [not identified], based in Saw Mu Plaw, ordered troops “to patrol and clear the areas.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 453
Reasons:
To establish more camps and control the area; To cut communications between lowland and highland areas; To drive civilians out of the area, “cut off the strength of the KNU.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 454
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Ler Mu Plaw Maw Pho Khee 48 336 2 Ler Mu Plaw Pwa Khaw 32 221 3 Saw Mu Plaw Thaw Hsa Khee 54 389 4 Saw Mu Plu Po Lay Khee 28 223 5 Khay Pu Htee Bway Khee 49 468 6 Khay Pu Htee Hsi Khee 61 520 272 2,157
People in Urgent Need of ERA
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Ler Mu Plaw Maw Pho Khee 48 336 2 Ler Mu Plaw Pwa Khaw 32 221 3 Saw Mu Plaw Thaw Hsa Khee 54 389 4 Saw Mu Plaw Po Lay Khee 28 223 162 1,169
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 455
ERA Distribution Summary 1 September 2006
Demographics:
ERA distributed as requested. The area is a free-fire zone, so Total remain in hiding.
Logistics:
Team departed 9 June – 7 July (31 days).
Situation Update:
LIB-361, LIB-362, and LIB-363 (OCH-10) began attacks at the start of 2006 and they have continued up though the date of distribution.
Troops regularly fire mortars into suspected IDP hiding places.
Troops uprooted paddy fields and burnt 3 villages down.
Troop deployments expanded after ERA distribution [frequency and/or area not clear].
Livelihood Issues:
Prior to 1997, villages cultivated a wide range of vegetables (pumpkin, taro, yam, cucumber, gourds, long beans, lemongrass, etc.) and animal husbandry (chickens, ducks, buffalos, goats, and pigs). Traders from Mu Thet and Ler Doh (Kyauk Kyi) common prior to the Scorched Earth Campaign.
Soils are poor and the ratio of seed to paddy produced is low. A good year: 150 baskets of paddy per 25 baskets of seed. Typical harvests are much lower. More productive soils are located close to SPDC camps, and cannot be cultivated now.
Markets for rice purchases located in Mu Thet, Kyaukgyi, and Kwee Doh Kho—both approximately a 1-2 day walk. Current prices: 7,000 kyat/tin of paddy, 1,000 kyat / viss of pork, 2,000-2,500 kyat / viss of chicken, 200,000 kyat / large buffalo.
Military Operations:
SPDC troops patrolling Lu Thaw Township along the upper side of the car road. The area is under OCH-10 and OCH-15 control.
25 May 2006 LIB-363 and LIB-361 departed Ler Mu Plaw military camp heading southwest.
29 May Troops entered Naw But Hta and Sho Ber Kho to patrols areas where villagers work.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 456
30 May Troops moved to Pa Na Law Kay and Wah Baw Day and patrolled areas where villagers work in Htee Hsi Khee, Htee Bway Khee, and Sho Ber Kho [The first 2 are in Khay Pu Village Tract]. Troops “ate” one paddy barn belonging to Saw [Name Redacted] from Htee Bway Khee Village.
2 June SPDC troops burned Naw Daw Lo Village at 7:30 am. These troops continued patrolling the area through 6 June.
29 May LIB-362 departs Ler Mu Plaw camp traveling from south to north, camping at Haw War Play in the Ka Neh Mi Der area.
30 May Troops begin uprooting all the rice seedlings in the upland fields at 11:20 am, destroying the entire crop. The troops then rested in the Hsar Thu Kyo area.
31 May Troops left the area at 6:30 am and destroyed a paddy barn belonging to Naw [Name Redacted] of Wee Pi Plaw Village. The troops then moved to Ka Baw Khe Village.
1 June LIB-362 continuously fires mortars into the village for one hour. Troops enter at 16:00, ate animals (pigs, goats, chickens) and then camped for the night.
2 June Troops, beginning at 7:30 am, burned the entire village and then resumed patrols in the surrounding area. They looted / destroyed all the food and property found. Hillside fields belonging to villagers from Htee Hsi Khee, Htee Bway Khee, and Sho Ber Kho were destroyed.
6 June LIB-363 and LIB-361 meet LIB-362 (travelling from Ka Baw Khee) at Ka Baw Day. The 3 combined battalions moved to Kay Bu Village Tract and camped at Ta Ghaw Kyo for the night.
7 June Combined troops traveled to Htaw Baw Peh and “ate” the contents of one paddy barn belonging to Saw [Name Redacted]. The troops patrolled the Maw Kho Kyo area through the 11th .
12 June Combined battalions moved to Baw Ro Mu Der and camped at Wa Hta Day, Wa Hta Kyo.
13 June Combined battalions divided into 2 groups. One went to Ler Mu Pho Daw Kho while the other remained at Wa Hta Kyo.
14 June Troops [not specified] at Ler Mu Pho Daw Kho opened fire with heavy weapons at 12:10 am. They shelled Na Yo Hta, Pa Na Ku Plaw, Gho Kyaw Der Villages.
15 June Troops positioned heavy weapons as Ler Mu Pho Daw Kho, Klo Kyo, Ta Nay Day, and Thu Kho and began shelling at 3 pm. The fired shells into Na Ya Hta, Pa Na Ku Plaw, and Gho Kyaw Der. 68 of the shells exploded. About an hour later, troops in the Pa Na Ku Plaw area burned down 7 houses, 4 huts, 5 straw huts, 1 paddy barn, 3 township office buildings, as well as ate 4 goats and 3 pigs. Troops from all three battalions returned to the hill afterwards.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 457
16 June Troops withdrew.
17 Troops arrived at Ka Baw Khee in the Htwee Mi Kyo region.
30 May 1 column [not specified] departed Ler Mu Plaw military camp for Yee Gwo Lo Der.
31 May troops shot at Yee Gwo Lo Der villagers at 9:30 am staying at a paddy hut in Bwa Doh Hta. Saw [Name Redacted] (age 40) was wounded. Troops then burnt down the hut and his paddy barn as well as a hut and barn belonging to Naw [Name Redacted].
1 June Troops moved to Law Pla Daw and pulled out the plants in the paddy fields. 10 paddy farms [plots] were destroyed.
2 June Troops moved to Ta Baw Mae Plaw and established a temporary camp and constructed bunkers in the middle of the villagers’ fields. 23 fields destroyed and, due the military presence, the Total were afraid to return to check the status of their 13 paddy barns.
14 June Troops [not specified] left Ler Mu Plaw camp, travelled through Ka Net Mu Der and then stayed the night at Khay Thu Kho.
14 June Troops entered Ker Gaw Kho Village in the Hsa Hta area and burnt down 13 houses, 1 paddy hut, ate animals (1 goat, 1 pig), shot and wounded 3 pigs, burned down the Htee Mu Khee High School.
15 June Troops entered the Pa Na Aye Ber Kho area and, at 8:20 am, opened fire using heavy weapons (RPG 7 and 2A) at the Du Doh Day Village. 53 of the 81 shells exploded.
16 June Troops retuned to Ler Mu Plaw camp.
23 June 3 battalions [not specified] from OCH-15 arrived in Ka Baw Khee, Htwee Mi Kyo region. The goal of OCH-15 and OCH-10 is to “clean up” the villages near the border of Taw Oo [Taungoo] and Mu Traw District. Villages: 1) Na Yo Hta, 2) Pa Na Aye Per Kho, 3) Htee Mu Khee, 4) Kay Bu, and 5) Leh Khee. Fields, food, property (cooking pots, knives, clothes, etc.) targeted.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 458
ERA Impact Assessment Summary 1 November 2006
Market Impact:
“The area is a free fire zone.” Villagers used to be able to access the market at Mu Thet Village, but have not been able to do so since SPDC troops established bases in the area in 2006.
KNLA troops and local authorities try to facilitate traders in SPDC controlled areas to travel to upland ones to sell rice and other goods in hiding areas. Due to SPDC patrols it often requires substantial time to complete transactions: 1-2 day walk over difficult terrain (including a river crossing), 1 or more days waiting (depending on security situation), then return. If conditions are good, it is possible to walk during the day, if not, then at night.
Rice prices rose from 6,000 kyat/tin to 7,500 kyat/tin in October due to travel restrictions and bribes [at checkpoints?], which raised transportation costs. The declining value of the kyat is also contributing to inflation.
Security Impact:
Troops [not specified] burnt down 1 village (Po Lay Khee) after ERA distribution, but the action is not linked to the aid.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 459
Report Number KORD-2006-10
Date Submitted: 2 July 2006
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd, beside Yunzalin River, east of Bago Region
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Saw Mu Pler Phia Kho Na Yo Hta
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 505 3,339
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-15 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-535, LIB-536, LIB- 537, LIB-552, LIB-553, LIB-564 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-15 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB- 370, LIB-535, LIB-536, LIB-537, LIB-552, LIB-553, LIB-564 Infantry Battalions IB-49 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 460
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 461
KORD-2006-10 ERA Request Summary 2 July 2006
Demographics:
3,339 people (505 households) from 9 villages in Hpapun Township in Karen State (KNU: Saw Mu Pler, Phia Kho, and Na Yo Hta Village Tracts, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District).
Location: North of the Kyaukgyi - Saw Hta road, beside the Yunzalin River, and east of Pegu Division. Villagers hide whenever troops approach.
Rationale:
LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364 (OCH-10) and LIB-535, LIB-536, LIB-537, LIB-552, LIB-553, LIB-565, and LIB-564 (OCH-15) deployed patrols in these village tracts from 16 April to May 18. Troops regard the area as a black area and people flee whenever they patrol.
During 2004 and 2005 patrols along the road decreased because villagers did not cultivate their paddy fields for several years. They began cultivating them again [when not stated] and troops resumed patrols in early 2006 forcing them to abandon all cultivation sites near the road.
Patrols regularly fired mortars into cultivation sites where they suspected villagers were working their fields. Documented: One person killed and another wounded by mortars.
Troops burnt and destroyed houses and barns when they located hiding villages. They also laid landmines, which led many to decide not to return.
Total documented losses: 69 houses and 12 huts burnt, 6,605 baskets of paddy and 248 rice baskets, 10 buffalos, 95 goats, 217 chickens, 87 ducks, and 38 pigs either abandoned by fleeing villagers or confiscated by patrols. Paddy and rice losses equivalent to a 2 month supply for 2,000 people.
Comments:
SPDC outposts in Ler Mu Plaw and Sho Mu Kho (west of the Yunzalin River) regularly fire mortars to the east. [Name redacted] travelling from Na Yo Hta to Pwa Ghaw heard at least 5-6 mortar explosions over a 6 day period (June 20-25). He saw 2 empty villages, some “uncovered” paddy sites [uprooted?], lowland paddy fields, and a burnt village, P’na Khu Plaw, along the way.
OCH-10 troops located in the affected areas rotated with OCH-15 on 21 June [and returned to base?]. OCH-15 withdrew to the areas surrounding the road. OCH-10 returned one month later and combined forces with OCH-15 and occupied 2 large villages in Lu Thaw Township according to KNLA Battalion No. 1 Commander, [Name redacted] and porters who escaped the area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 462
Nominal price of rice increased 50% since the start of the year; however, the exchange rate has depreciated by approximately 30%, to the real price rise is closer to 20%. Rice is less costly here than Taungoo District because travel restrictions are not as severe. So ERA is perceived to be less risky.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 463
ERA Request 18 June 2006
Affected areas:
Saw Mu Plaw, Phla Kho, and Na Yo Hta Village Tracts. North of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road. Black hiding area
Period:
16 April – 18 May
Military Units
OCH-10 LIB-362, 363, and 364
OCH-15 LIB-535, 536, 537, 552, 553, 565, 564
Military Operations:
SPDC have conducted operations in the area for nearly a decade [1997-2006]. Livelihoods, largely upland shifting paddy cultivation, have been very unstable as a result. Many of the villagers from Ler Mu Plaw and Saw Mu Plaw have stayed in Kay Pu and Na Yo Hta Village Tracts. Many villages from Phla Kho are staying in Na Yo Hta and Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tracts as well.
Patrols along the road during 2004 and 2005 declined, which gave confidence to Total to return. In early 2006, the number of troops increased dramatically and then the offensive started [these patrols coincided with clearing / burning period].
16 April LIB-364 departed Ler Mu Plaw camp.
17 April LIB-364 entered Baw Mae Plaw and patrolled areas that villages had been cultivating. They then moved to Ler Mu Kho (at the top of Ler Mu hill) and remained there for 2 days. Troops fired mortars from this position into the fields during this period.
19 April LIB-364 returned to the Ler Mu Plaw camp. They continued to fire 1-2 mortars per day into the fields in the Baw Mae Plaw area.
19 April LIB-362 departed the Maw Phoo camp and began patrols in the Paw Mu Der area where they fired mortars, killing one villager and wounding another.
6 May Another group of LIB-362 troops left Pwa Gaw camp and began patrols in Mu Khah Lo Bu area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 464
6 May LIB-363 left Phla Kho camp and began patrols in the Say Day area.
7 May Troops from both battalions met for a while. LIB-363 moved to Nwah Kyo Kho, where they spent the night.
8 May LIB-363 began patrols in Paw Mu Der, So Mu Lay Der, and Saw Ker Dear areas for the next several days. They returned to Nwah Kyo Kho on the 12th.
7 May LIB-362 began patrols in Ta Baw Ko Der.
8 May LIB-362 burnt houses, huts and paddy barns in Blah Pu Hta and Htaw Law Hta areas.
9 May LIB-362 moved on to Htee Moo Hta, To Thoo Play, and No Ta Lay Plaw areas where they again burnt houses, huts, and paddy barns.
10 May LIB-362 moved to No Day and spent the night.
11 May LIB-362 returned to Pwa Gay military camp.
13 May LIB-535, LIB-536, LIB-537, LIB-552, LIB-553, LIB-565, LIB-564 (OCH-15) began patrolling the road and the surrounding area.
15 May LIB-364 left Ler Mu Plaw camp and moved to Ta Baw Mae Plaw and Kaw Mo Kho to patrol the area. Troops primarily looked for IDP hiding sites. They burnt and destroyed everything they found in these sites.
18 May LIB-364 returned to Ler Mu Plaw camp.
Total reported losses: 69 houses and 12 huts burnt, 6,065 baskets of paddy and 248 baskets of rice, 83 viss of salt, 34 viss of chilis, 10 buffaloes, 96 goats, 217 chickens, 87 ducks, and 38 pigs either killed, eaten, looted.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 465
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Saw Mu Plaw Ta Baw Ko Der 75 544 2 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Baw Khee 95 532 3 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Moo Khee 68 449 4 Phla Kho Phla Kho Do 60 454 5 Phla Kho Phla Kho Pho 29 247 6 Phla Kho Saw Ker Der 39 266 7 Phla Kho So Mu Lay Der 31 190 8 Phla Kho Paw Mu Der 57 323 9 Na Yo Hta Taw Paw Der 51 334 10 Ler Mu Plaw Thaw Khi Der 29 230 11 Phla Kho Htee Ler Khee 37 313 12 Phla Kho Pa Na Ae Per Kho 43 367 614 4,249
People in Urgent Need of Food
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Saw Mu Plaw Ta Baw Ko Der 75 544 2 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Baw Khee 95 532 3 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Moo Khee 68 449 4 Phla Kho Phla Kho Do 60 454 5 Phla Kho Phla Kho Pho 29 247 6 Phla Kho Saw Ker Der 39 266 7 Phla Kho So Mu Lay Der 31 190 8 Phla Kho Paw Mu Der 57 323 9 Na Yo Hta Taw Paw Der 51 334 505 3,339
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 466
ERA Distribution Summary 1 November 2006
Demographics:
Aid provided as per original request.
Logistics:
Departed 11 August and returned 2 September (22 days).
Livelihoods:
Hillside cultivation is primary source of food/income. 30% of them have paddy farms. Villagers can access the markets in Mae Nu Hta and Hpapun, which is a 3-day walk.
Situation Update:
Rice price increased from 7,500 kyat/tin to 8,000 at time of ERA distribution.
Travel restrictions prompted villagers to abandon their cultivation sites.
Patrols burnt down one village in August.
No proper medical care, but some backpack teams are able to visit. Medicine traders pass through periodically too, but charge very high prices.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 467
ERA Distribution Report 1 November 2006
Situation Update:
Since mid-April 2006 (when operations began), people displaced 1-2 times.
9 villages that received aid are located close to Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road and 5 military camps: Pla Kho, Gha Kho, Paw Mu Kho, Wa Klay Tu, and Htaw Mu Pleh Mae
SPDC camps are 2-hour walk away from villages and 1 hour from upland fields.
Troop movements above the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road.
OCH-10 Military Tactical 1: LIB-362, LIB-363 OCH-10 Military Tactical 2: LIB-364 OCH-15 Military Tactical 2: LIB-535, LIB-536, LIB-537 OCH-15 Military Tactical 3: LIB-552, LIB-553, LIB-565, LIB-564
2 villagers killed, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 30) and [Name Redacted] (age 17), and 1 wounded, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 18) during military operations (16 April – 18 May 2006).
Incidents between ERA Request and ERA Distribution
29 May LIB-362 and LIB-363 left Ler Mu Plaw camp and entered Ka Neh Mu Der Village. While en route they uprooted paddy seedlings from 19 hillside farms and destroyed one paddy barn on the 30th.
31 May LIB-362 burnt one paddy barn belonging to Naw [Name Redacted] at 7:30 am.
2 June Troops [not specified – presumably both LIB above] fired mortars at Ka Baw Khee Village, entered it at around 16:00 hours, and then ate/destroyed everything in it.
3 June Troops [not specified] burnt down Sho Be Khor Village at around 7:30 am.
6 June LIB-362 and LIB-363 left Kaw Baw Khee, moved to the Kay Bu area, and conducted patrols until the 12th.
15 June Troops [not specified] fired mortars at Pa Na Ku Plaw and Ho Kyaw Der Villages. 86 mortar shells exploded.
15 June Troops [not specified] entered Pa Na Ku Plaw Village later that day and burnt 6 houses, 7 huts, and 3 Lu Thaw Township buildings, one paddy barn, as well as ate the pigs and chickens.
17 June LIB-362 and LIB-363 returned Ka Baw Khee Village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 468
14 June LIB-370 departed Ler Mu Plaw and entered the Ka Neh Mu Kho area. The battalion fired mortars into presumed IDP hiding sites in the Pa Nah Aye Ber Kho area. 52 mortars exploded. Troops entered Kar Ker Lo [in the Pa Nah Aye Ber Kho area] at around 10 am and burnt 13 villages, 1 hut, and 1 of the school office buildings.
16 June LIB-370 returned to Ler Mu Plaw camp.
20 July LIB-362 and LIB-363 troops in Kaw Baw Khee left and “took more military place” [established positions] at: 1) Ler Ta Gho; 2) Bway Kho; 3) Lay Gaw Kyo; 4) Hswe Kyo; and 5) Shaw Kyo.
24 August LIB-535 (OCH-15) entered and burned Trow Khee Village.
SPDC bases and areas patrolled north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road:
OCH-10 Military Tactical 1: Baw Gay Kho OCH-10 Military Tactical 2: Ler Mu Plaw OCH-10 Military Tactical 3: Maw Pu LIB-361: Pla Kho, Ler Klay Kyo, Maw Pu, Ga Kho, Maw Kyo, Plo Mu Kho, and Pla Kho LIB-366: Saw Mu Plaw, Ler Mu Plaw, Htwee Mi Kyo, and Blaw Khee LIB-370: Bwa Gaw, Nyaung Pin Kone, Shwe Taung, Kyo Ta Dar, Thay Wa Ky IB-49: Kaw Wee Kyo, Ta Gaw Hta, Saw Hta, and Thee Mu Hta LIB-364: Saw Hta and Thee Mu Hta LIB-368: Baw Gay Kho and Saw Mu Pla OCH-15 Military Tactical 2: Lay Gwa Kyo LIB-535, LIB-537, and LIB-552: Na Yo Hta and Khay Pu areas.
Note: According to local sources the SPDC plans to “build up” towns in highland areas, e.g.: Ler Wah, Mu That, Bwa Gaw, and Bu Hser Khee Villages [relocate dispersed villagers into the settlement]. So, KORD monitors anticipate troops movements will increase in 2007.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 469
Report Number CIDKP-2006-09
Date Submitted: 31 July 2006
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., beside Yunzalin River, east of Bago Region
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Hsaw Mu Plaw Naw Yo Hta Ler Mu Plaw Kay Pu
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 22 762 5,452
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 470
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 471
CIDKP-2006-09 ERA Summary 31 July 2006
Demographics:
5,452 people (762 households) from 22 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Hsaw Mu Plaw, Naw Yo Hta, Ler Mu Plaw, and Kay Pu Village Tracts, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District).
Target population: 443 girls and 397 boys (<5) and 2,248 females and 2,364 males (>5).
Location: north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road, beside the Yunzalin (Bwe Loe Klo) River, east of Pegu Division border. People flee whenever troops approach
Rationale:
Following the end of the 1997 offensive and the withdrawal of troops, people gradually repopulated their former villages. Most people engaged in hillside cultivation and some lowland paddy fields. People in lowland areas largely integrated [moved to] the Naw Yo Hta and Kay Pu areas.
LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364 (OCH-10) conducted patrols in the affected village tracts from 17 April to 15 June with the apparent goal of clearing the area. More than 100 houses burnt during this period.
Total abandoned 414 paddy barns, containing approximately 34,000 baskets of paddy and 250 barns. [1 basket = 2 tins] 8 lowland and 178 upland paddy fields, with an estimated productivity of 35,000 baskets, were subsequently destroyed. Food losses are equivalent to a 6-month supply of rice for 7,700 people.
Troops confiscated 1 buffalo, 184 goats, 417 chickens, 87 ducks, 76 pigs, and 34 viss of chili.
Operations are ongoing.
Comments:
Due to the size the request, CIDKP agreed to coordinate 2 relief teams to distribute the distance. Recommends that each team take responsibility for 2 village tracts.
Battalions under OCH-10 command have been deploying patrols in this area since mid-April, extending into the Kay Pu area, north of Naw Yo Hta to occupy 2 large villages with the goal of cutting the route and communications among KNLA troops. [Name redacted] has been to some parts of that area and witnessed the burning of Pa Nu Ku Plaw in Naw Yo Hta Village Tract, and saw many abandoned upland farms and some lowland fields.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 472
Nominal rice price has increased 50% since the beginning of the year – although the Burmese exchange rate has depreciated approximately 30%, so the real price rise is closer to 20%. This is consistent with increased rice prices, which the mainstream media had widely reported in recent months.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 473
ERA Request
Background and Topography:
Yunzalin River runs northwest to southeast, but not navigable. Some flat land can be found along the river and its tributaries, but most is highland.
Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta Road passed through Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract, Pla Kho Village Tract, and Tay Mu Der Village Tract. The road is mostly used during the dry season by the military for transporting soldiers and supplies.
During the 1975 offensive people in the Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract fled, but returned 3 years later after troops withdrew.
During the 1997 offensive nearly all of the villages were burnt down and many Total relocated to Kay Pu and Nor Yo Hta Village Tracts. Troops established bases during the offensive but later withdraw, permitting people to return.
Livelihoods:
Kay Pu and Nor Yo Hta Village Tracts: 25% do lowland paddy and 75% do upland. Hsaw Mu Plaw and Ler Mu Plaw rely primarily on upland farming. Before the Hsaw Hta market opened, people did small-scale business and trading with people from Kay Pu and Nor Yo Hta.
Military Operations:
Mid-April MOC-10 launches operations in Lu Thaw Township.
17 April LIB-364 fires heavy weapons from Ler Mu Daw Kho at Ka Baw Khi, Sro Per Kho, Pa Nar Ku Plaw, Htee Bway Khi Villages. Troops patrolled for 4 days and then withdrew.
27 April One column from Military Command Central (no. 2) entered Ta Kho Doh Baw / Tha Der Der Hsaw Hta Village (Lu Thaw Township) at around 14:30. Troops destroyed 24 houses and 16 paddy barns containing 7,000 tins of paddy and 100 tins of rice.
8 May Troops [not specified] burned down 51 houses and one paddy barn, and killed one buffalo in the area around Ta Baw Kaw Der and Tae Po Plaw Villages. Patrols went on to destroy 12 farm huts, 14 paddy barns (1,796 tins/paddy), and eat/loot 96 tins of rice, 92 goats, 217 chickens, 87 ducks, 31 pigs, 83 viss of salt and 34 viss of chilis.
30 May LIB-362 entered Ka New Mu Der and destroyed paddy and ate animals [amounts not specified].
31 May LIB-361 and LIB-362 entered Sro Per Kho and Yee Hgo Loe Der to conduct patrols.
2 June LIB-362 burnt down Ka Baw Khi Village in Nar Yo Hta Village Tract.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 474
3 June Troops [not specified] burnt down Ta Baw Mae Plaw Village. Troops ate/looted 192 goats, 200 chickens, 45 pigs, destroyed 45 knives, 64 shackles [?], 20 cooking pots, and 2 paddy barns belong to Saw [Name Redacted], Naw [Name Redacted], and Naw [Name Redacted]. Troops shot and wounded [Name Redacted].
7 June LIB-361 and LIB-363 fired 3 mortars, at 16:02 hours, into suspected IDP hiding places in Baw Kaw Plaw in Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract.
8 June Same troops fired 6 mortars from Hwi Me Kyo and machine guns around the Pwo Kler Der Village, Naw Yo Hta Village Tract.
10 June Troops [not specified] fire 30 heavy weapon shells at Thay Ko Mu Der Village.
11 June LIB-361 and LIB-363 fire heavy weapons at Pa Nar Ku Plaw (Na Yo Hta Village Tract).
14 June These troops fired 3 heavy weapon shells at Pa Nar Khu Plaw.
15 June Troops [not specified] from Ler Mu Pho fired 42 heavy weapon shells (beginning at 17:00 hours) east across the Yunzalin River. Troops burnt down 13 houses, 3 farm huts, shot and ate one gate, and one pig while in the Ker Gaw Kho Bler Gaw area (Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract).
Mid-June onwards troops remained in positions and patrolled the surrounding areas [rather than roving patrols].
Total losses during these operations:
Kay Pu Village Tract:
163 paddy barns (an estimated 15,000 baskets of paddy) abandoned and 100 paddy barns “partially abandoned” [unclear whether this means they were able to take some of the paddy when they fled and/or return later to do so]. 2 lowland paddy fields and 42 plots of upland fields (together expected to yield over 10,000 baskets of paddy) destroyed.
Naw Yo Village Tract:
1,010 paddy barns (an estimated 9,000 + baskets of paddy) totally abandoned, over 100 paddy barns partially abandoned. 6 lowland paddy fields and 30 upland plots (together expected to yield over 7,000 baskets of paddy) destroyed.
Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract:
150 paddy barns (10,000 + baskets of paddy) total abandoned. No lowland paddy fields destroyed, but 65 upland plots (expected to yield about 10,000 baskets of paddy) were destroyed. More than 50 paddy barns partially abandoned and 41 plots of upland fields (expected to yield about 8,000 baskets) were destroyed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 475
Total:
414 paddy barns containing approximately 34,000 baskets totally abandoned. 250 paddy barns partially abandoned. 8 lowland and 178 upland paddy fields (together expected to yield approximately 35,000 baskets) destroyed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 476
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hsaw Mu Pa Kho 37 112 112 24 24 272 Plaw 2 Hsaw Mu Ma Peh 15 46 34 1 8 89 Plaw 3 Hsaw Mu Ta Yu Plaw 10 30 33 7 2 72 Plaw 4 Naw Yo Hta Pu Kla Der 48 154 147 21 34 356 5 Hsaw Mu Hgo Kyaw Der 49 146 138 28 31 343 Plaw 6 Hsaw Mu Nya Lo Der 43 157 120 34 32 343 Plaw 7 Hsaw Mu Thaw Khee Der 49 124 132 25 20 301 Plaw 8 Hsaw Mu Pa Na Ku Plaw 53 145 138 28 25 336 Plaw 9 Ler Mu Plaw Yee Hgo Loe Der 16 54 60 4 8 126 10 Ler Mu Plaw Kaw Roh Baw Hta 12 33 29 2 8 72 11 Ler Mu Plaw Bler Gaw 39 130 110 16 22 278 12 Ler Mu Plaw Ka Neh Mu Der 22 77 76 21 15 189 13 Ler Mu Plaw Ler Mu Plaw 61 199 211 17 24 451 14 Kay Pu Ka May Khi 16 40 53 11 12 116 15 Kay Pu Htee Bway Khi 16 42 45 16 16 119 16 Kay Pu Taw Ku Mu Der 41 115 119 11 33 278 17 Kay Pu Htee Kyit Khi 14 62 51 12 10 135 18 Kay Pu Bo Na / Haw Thwe 19 59 59 11 8 137 Khi 19 Kay Pu Ta Yu Khi 25 83 79 12 16 190 20 Kay Pu Kay Pu 69 222 190 33 40 485 21 Kay Pu Sro Per Kho 55 161 176 35 36 408 22 Kay Pu Thay Thoo Khi 53 173 136 28 19 356 762 2,364 2,248 397 443 5,452
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 477
ERA Distribution Summary 25 October 2006
Demographics:
ERA distributed in accordance with request. Recipients included 4,612 people over 5 (2,248 females and 2,364 males) and 840 under 5 (443 female and 397 male).
Livelihood Issues:
Some Total are trying to maintain their fields despite the risks, some want to try and return to their paddy barns to get supplies [to replant nearby?], others have abandoned the farms.
1 mobile clinic in Na Yo Hta provides some health services to Total. Clinic has had to relocate 3 hours walk farther away for security reasons. FBR periodically provides services.
Military Situation Update:
LIB-361, LIB-362, and LIB-363 (MOC-10) remain active in Hsaw Mu Plaw and Ler Mu Plaw Village Tracts. Between the end of May and the beginning of June, military operations displaced 708 people from 4 villages. 106 houses in 7 villages burned down between 8 May and 28 June. 1,410 acres of upland and lowland paddy fields abandoned.
Burnt Homes and Huts
No. Village Tracts Village Houses Huts Total Date 1 Ler Mu Plaw K’Baw Khi 9 0 9 3 June 2 Ler Mu Plaw Bler Gaw 8 0 8 15 June 3 Saw Mu Plaw Ker Gaw 7 0 7 15 June 4 Saw Mu Plaw P’Na Ku Plaw 11 0 11 15 June 5 Saw Mu Plaw Tae Bo Plaw 38 0 38 8 May 6 Saw Mu Plaw Baw Kaw Plaw 0 4 4 15 June 7 Tay Mu Der Hser Hta 24 5 29 28 April 97 9 106
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 478
Abandoned Paddy Farms
No. Village Village Upland Acres Lowland Acres Date Tract Paddy Paddy Abandoned 1 Yeh Mu Tea Thu Der 46 449.5 16 22.5 17 July Plaw 2 Yeh Mu Ta Man Der 5 49 0 0 17 July Plaw 3 Yeh Mu Ta Paw Der 9 88 0 0 17 July Plaw 4 Yeh Mu Thay Ko 7 62 0 0 17 July Plaw Mu Der 5 Hsaw Mu Ta Baw 29 157 0 0 15 July Plaw Kaw Der 6 Hsaw Mu Htee Moo 12 59 0 0 15 July Plaw Khi 7 Hsaw Mu Htee Baw 3 25 0 0 15 July Plaw Khi 8 Ler Mu T’Naw 11 58 0 0 15 July Plaw 9 Ler Mu Ler Mu 20 114 0 0 30 May Plaw Plaw 10 Ler Mu K’Baw Khi 8 54 0 0 30 May Plaw 11 Ler Mu K’Nan Mee 4 31 0 0 30 May Plaw Der 12 Ler Mu He Ko Lo 14 128 0 0 30 May Plaw Der 13 Ler Mu K’Nan Mee 0 0 5 8 30 May Plaw Der 168 1,380.5 21 29.5
Paddy Burned by Village Tract
No. Village Tract Village Paddy [tins] Rice Date 1 Ler Mu Plaw K’Baw Khi 129 0 3 June 2 Saw Mu Plaw Ker Gaw Ko 6 0 15 June 3 Saw Mu Plaw P’Na Ku Plaw 50 0 15 June 4 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Baw Khi 132.5 2.5 31 May 5 Saw Mu Plaw Tan Bo Der 1,698 48 8 May 6 Yeh Mu Plaw Thay Ko Mu Der 60 0 25 May 7 Tay Mu Der Hser Hta 3,500 150 24 April 5,596.5 200.5
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 479
Abandoned Paddy Farms
No. Village Tract Village Upland Acres Lowland Acres Date 1 Kay Pu Bo Nar Der 10 49.5 9 15.5 21 July 2 Kay Pu Shoro Per Kho 45 233 0 0 30 June 3 Kay Pu Htee Per Kho 24 122.5 1 225 3 July 4 Kay Pu Thay Thu Khi 19 94 8 11.5 21 July 5 Kay Pu Taw Ku Mu Der 29 100 8 10.5 21 July 6 Kay Pu T’Yu Khi 10 33.5 0 0 3 July 7 Pla Kho Ku Day 32 187 0 0 21 June 8 Naw Yo Hta Po Klay Der 15 139.5 0 0 15 June 9 Naw Yo Hta Htee Baw Day 12 50 0 0 16 June 196 1,009 26 262.5
People Killed in Kay Pu and Naw Yo Hta Village Tracts
No. Name Age Father’s Name Location Date Village Village Incident Tract 1 Saw [Name 42 Saw [Name Htee Mae 27 Htee Si Kay Pu Redacted] Redacted] K’La July Khi 2 Saw [Name 32 n/a Du Hta 13 Ka Mae Naw Yo Redacted] April Loe Hta 3 Saw [Name 30 [Name Thet Lo Klo 15 Pla Ko Pla Ko Redacted] Redacted] April 4 Saw [Name 17 [Name Noe Lo Klo 24 Pau Mu Pla Ko Redacted] Redacted] April Der 5 Saw [Name 18 Saw [Name Noe Lo Klo 24 Pau Mu Pla Ko Redacted] Redacted] April Der
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 480
Report Number KORD-2007-08
Date Submitted: 26 February 2007
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Ler Mu Plaw Saw Mu Plaw Khay Pu Na Yo Hta
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 17 592 4,524
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-15 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-353, LIB-365, LIB-369, LIB-564, LIB-565 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 481
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-103, LIB-115, LIB-234, LIB-243, LIB-415, LIB- 416 Infantry Battalions Other Militical Tactical 1 and 2
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 482
KORD-2007-08 ERA Request 26 February 2007
Demographics:
4,524 villagers (592 Households) from 17 villages in 4 village tracts (Ler Mu Plaw, Saw Mu Plaw, Khay Pu, and Na Yo Hta, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw (Hpapun) District, Karen State.
Period:
5 October 2006 – 2 January 2007
Location and Livelihoods:
Village tracts are located north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road. Shifting cultivation and some irrigated paddy farming. Highland hiding area. People flee whenever patrols approach.
Military Units Identified:
MOC-15 (LIB-353, LIB-369, LIB-365, LIB-564, and LIB-565).
Military Operations:
Most of the population in Ler Mu Plaw and Saw Mu Plaw Village Tracts fled during the Four Cuts offensive, relocating to Khay Pu and Na Yo Hta Village Tracts.
2006 offensive in these 4 village tracts coincided with those in Taw Oo District to the north and Mu Township to the west.
5 October 2006 LIB-353, LIB-369, LIB-365, LIB-564, and LIB-565 troops left Ler Mu Plaw camp and began patrols around Ka Baw Khee, Htee Hsi Khee, Phaw Thay Mu Khee, Sho Per Kho, and Pu Kla Der Villages to clear out their residents. The search-and-destroy missions lasted 12 days, during which troops destroyed paddy barns, food supplies, emergency caches, and uprooted or stepped on plants in fields and plantations.
18 October LIB-564 and LIB-565 began patrolling the areas around Htee Hsi Khee, Hto Baw Pheh, and Taw Khu Mu Der Villages and set up outposts on high ground. Regular patrols continue.
11 November 2 more battalions [not specified] left Hswe Kyo and entered the Bo Na Der Village area. They spent one night there.
12 November These troops moved to higher ground and built a new outpost on Ta Ler Ker Kho hill. Regular patrols continue.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 483
A total of 5 new outposts on high ground constructed at: Ler Ta Kho Tu, Mae Thi Kyo, Sho Kyo, Hswe Kyo, and Ta Ler Ker Kho. The 5 battalions fires long-range mortars into suspected IDP hiding areas on a daily basis in addition to conducting regular patrols. “Whenever they see smoke they shell more mortars [and fired] small guns as well to frighten the villagers to run away and not to come back to their paddy fields.”
Total reported losses: 391 paddy fields (4,962 baskets of seed planted) and 190 irrigated fields (760 baskets of seed planted), which would yield approximately 34,800 baskets of paddy, lost.
Reason: Local authorities report the operations are designed to clear the area to start construction on a new car road from Ler Mu Plaw to connect to existing Kaw Thay Der – Bu Hsa Khee Road.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Khay Pu Khay Pu 40 331 2 Khay Pu Sho Per Kho 25 148 3 Khay Pu Htee Hsi Khee 17 158 4 Khay Pu Htee Bway Khee 17 118 5 Khay Pu Bo Na Der 22 163 6 Khay Pu Taw Kho Mu Der 41 264 7 Khay Pu Thay Thoo Khee 55 346 8 Khay Pu Ta May Khee 22 180 9 Khay Pu Ta Yu Khee 28 191 10 Khay Pu Kho Mu Der 25 190 11 Khay Pu Phlo Khee 39 329 12 Khay Pu Kaw Hter Der 20 133 13 Saw Mu Plaw Saw Mu Plaw 40 328 14 Na Yo Hta Na Yo Hta 42 303 15 Na Yo Hta Po Kla Der 52 432 16 Ler Mu Plaw Ler Mu Plaw 72 650 17 Ler Mu Plaw Ka Baw Khee 35 260 17 592 4,524
Paddy: 8,000 kyat/tin
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 484
ERA Distribution Summary 20 July 2007
Demographics:
ERA distributed as per original request. 2,240 males and 2,284 females. Slightly less than 1/3 of the beneficiaries were under 10 years of age.
Logistics:
5 April – 3 May 2007 (29 days).
Livelihoods:
Villagers can purchase rice at Ta Khaw Hta market, though SPDC troop movements sometimes make this difficult. Living conditions (housing, education, and medicine) are very rudimentary. Most people live in shelters rather than homes/villages.
Situation Update:
Area subject to frequent waves of shelling since ERA request.
Local KNLA authorities report that troops have established 4 new outposts to provide security for road construction, which will link Hpapun District to Taungoo District.
ERA team found Taw Khu Mu Der and Bo Na Der Villages burned.
Villagers from Thay Thu Khee and Ta May Khee had fled and set up temporary shelters near the Phlo Law Klo River.
11 March 2007 Troops [not specified] shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted], from Bo Kha Der Village, while he was attempting to cross this new road. The new road is a serious problem from villagers from Htee Bway Khee and Htee Hsi Khee because many of them have fields close to it.
KORD learned that SPDC troops burned down two of the villages that had just received ERA: Htee Hsi Khee and Htee Bway Khee. The village headman of [Name Redacted] was also shot dead. KORD believes that actions were not related to the ERA distribution, but rather the proximity of both villages to the new road.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 485
ERA Distribution Report 20 July 2007
Military Operations Update:
Road construction well underway in Ta Ler Per Kho region: one bulldozer, one fuel truck, and 80 mules for carrying military rations and ammunition. Troops providing security frequently fired mortars into fields and hiding areas, while those conducting patrols burned the areas they passed through.
11 March 2007 Fatal shooting and the destruction of the 2 villages as described in the ERA- Distribution summary.
Almost daily fighting between the SPDC and KNLA in No Yo Hta, Ler Mu Plaw, and Saw Mu Plaw Village Tracts. Landmine blasts also heard.
KNLA sources state that the mules are being used to resupply the frontline posts in order to launch a major offensive.
District KORD received word just after their return that troops had begun patrols in Khay Pu and Na Yo Hta Village Tracts.
Livelihood Update:
Most of the villagers are too poor (even in good years) to purchase rice at markets. Ta Kha Hta market is the closest and access depends on troop patrols. One sack (3 tins) costs 24,000 kyat at the time of ERA request. The price of one tin increased to 9,000 kyat/tin at the time of distribution.
Some cultivate vegetables and herb along side hillside paddy, as well as breed chickens, ducks, pigs, goat, cattle and buffalos. But these are for their own consumption / use, not for a sale.
Area available for hillside paddy continues to decrease due to increase in the number of outposts and patrols. Consequently, villagers have to cultivate the same plot for 3-4 years in a row, soil nutrition declines, as do yields.
Most villagers live in temporary shelters, others in paddy huts. They do not dare gather to form villages.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 486
ERA Impact Assessment 22 October 2007
Market Impact:
Recipients used money to buy paddy at Ta Ghaw Hta and Mae Nu Hta markets, about 2-3 day walk. Villagers who went to the former had to obtain permissions letters from the village heads near the market and provide advance payment before accessing the market [KORD does not explain why]. Villages who went to the latter reliant on KNLA for protection and safe passage, as the trip requires crossing the Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta Road. The road is heavily militarized, SPDC troops position themselves to ambush travellers, and troop movements often require villagers to wait one week to cross.
Elderly and weak beneficiaries had to pay others to purchase rice for them, as they could not travel on their own.
Increase in prices due to “risk of travelling and the insecure security condition,” not the ERA.
KORD found evidence that people who had stored rice raised their prices when the beneficiaries sought to purchase it. Local KORD officials spoke with them after learning about the situation, explained how ERA worked and the need to keep the prices consistent with local ones, and they reportedly lowered the prices.
Benefits to Total short-term as they food needs are so acute. Some of the villagers were able to “stay in their own area and need not to leave their villages for the Thai-Burma border refugee camps.”
Security Impact:
Reports that KNU collected taxes, but as per normal practice, and not related to ERA. “The villagers those had own properties more than other villagers had to pay the usual tax to the KNU, but the poorest villagers were not. The collection of tax is not because of the distribution of aid, it is because of the KNU taxation process. Since the KNU was very concerned to those villagers, then the KNU sometimes had to arrange and provided the food to those poorest villagers as well.”
22 April 2007 Troops [not specified] invaded Kay Pu Village Tract, burn houses, and shoot [at?] villagers.
27 April LIB-115 and LIB-234 (LID-88), Military Tactical 2, traveled from Bu Hsa Khee to Kaw Maw Kyo (Hsi Day area). When they arrived in Ghaw Daw Kho they burnt houses and school buildings in Kleh Mu Village.
28 April Road construction begins in earnest.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 487
4 May Bulldozers and other equipment arrive near Ghaw Daw Kho and Baw Lay Der villages, and work towards Kay Pu Village. The bulldozer from Taw Oo District did not arrive at Hseh Daw Kho (lower part of Ta Kheh Der) until 19 May.
5 May LIB-415, LIB-416 and LIB-103 (LID-88), Military Tactical 1, based at Taw Khu Mu Der, Hsweh Kyo, Ta Ler Ker Kho, and Bo Na Der combined with LIB-115, LIB-243 (MOC-1), Military Tactical 2, and entered Taw Khu Mu Der, Bo Na Der, Htee Bway Khee, and Htee Hsi Khee villages. The troops reportedly burned down everything they found.
Post-ERA-Distribution Troops [not specified] burnt down 133 houses and 12 schools, as well as shot / killed 1 woman and 1 man, in the area where distribution occurred. KORD also states that most of the beneficiaries fled to the forest to avoid SDPC Troops following ERA distribution, but does elaborate.
7 May Troops [not specified] patroled Ye Gho Khee, Day Mu Plaw, and Blaw Kho areas and burnt down villager hiding places.
16 May Troops based at Ler Mu Plaw and Taw Mu Pleh Mae entered Ka Neh Mu Der and, on the 17th, Hsa Hta area where they opened fire on villages sowing paddy [no mention of casualties]. Troops fired mortars into residential and hiding areas. Troops later burnt hiding places, fields, and paddy huts.
Many of the villages near the road have been destroyed or abandoned due to the patrols, and large numbers of people are in hiding areas.
KORD reports 10 villages burnt as well as 133 homes, 12 school buildings, 2 rice barns with 340 tins of paddy and 5 tins of rice. One woman and one man shot and killed. Troops routinely fire 120-mm and 81-mm shells (68 total) into the villages and hiding areas during this period.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 488
Report Number KORD-2007-12
Date Submitted: 17 April 2007
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., adjacent Yunzalin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Khay Pu
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 6 194 2,112
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-15 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-103, LIB-301, LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB- 364, LIB-366, LIB-370, LIB-416 Infantry Battalions IB-13, IB-17 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command MOC-4, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division LID-33, LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other Tactical-881, -882, -883, Special Battalion 60
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 489
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 490
KORD-2007-12 ERA Summary Revised 17 April 2007
Original 11 October 2007
Demographics:
2,112 people (194 households) from 6 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Khay Pu, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District).
Location: adjacent to Yunzalin River, north of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road, west of Karenni State. Hiding area
Hillside paddy farming dominant.
Updated Rationale:
August 2007 onwards SPDC patrols frequent in area.
8 August Troops burned down 14 houses in one of the affected hiding sites.
FBR also reported increased militarization and bulldozers, including new link between Ler Mu Plaw - Ba Hsa Khee Road.
Previous Rationale:
June 2006 MOC-15 (LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-370, and IB-17) established 3 new bases on the Taungoo / Hpapun border and remained there through wet season.
September 2006 Patrols began. Troops fired 5-6 mortar shells daily into paddy fields. Some abandoned them entirely, while others cultivate paddy at night.
January 2007 LID-88 (LIB-103, LIB-301, LIB-416, and IB-13) replaced above troops and established 3 new outposts. The firing of mortar shells became more frequent and widespread. Villagers displaced across to other side of the Yunazlin River.
Troops “surveying” for road construction to link Ler Mu Plaw to Ba Hsa Khee. The surveying included clearing settlements and destroying food caches hidden in the region.
Reported losses: 1,500 baskets of just harvested paddy and 50 baskets of rice (equivalent to 3 months rice supply for 400 people).
Comments:
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 491
Average household size (11 people) is very high in comparison to other areas. Explanation not provided. It is assumed that successive displacements have led households (extended family?) to combine.
Rice price has increased 50% since original request, which is not surprising given the fuel price hikes.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 492
Original 1 April 2007
Location:
Baw Lay Der, Ta Kheh Der, Geh Yu Der, Kleh Mu, Leh Khee, and Si Day Villages in the northern end of the Khay Pu Village Tract, northern Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District.
Period:
Two patrols: 15 June 2006, and 25 January 2007 – ongoing as of request date.
Military Units:
LID-88: LIB-103, LIB-301, LIB-416, and IB-13 MOC-15: LIB-361, LIB-362, LIB-363, LIB-364, LIB-366, LIB-370, and IB-17
Situation:
Khay Pu Village Tract in upland free-fire area. “Civilians are used to targeted as the enemies of the SPDC and were shot on sight.”
Shifting paddy cultivation is primary food source of livelihoods. Little access to traders or markets. Currently, could access Maw Chi (Karenni State) and Ta Khaw Hta (Salween River Bank, south of Pasaung), and a few people travel to Nwah Hta (Nyaunglebin District). It is a three-day round-trip walk to Maw Chi.
1995-1997 operations badly affected people in Ler Mu Plaw and Saw Mu Plaw Village Tracts, as well as people in Taw Oo District.
15 June 2006 MOC-15 battalions (above) left Bu Hsa Khee (Taw Oo District) and began patrols in the area. First outpost established in Htee Htaw Per in the Si Day area, near the border of Taw Oo and Mu Traw districts. Two more outposts built at Pwo Law Hset and then Ka Maw Kya. Troops remained through rainy season.
September troops increased patrols and began to fire mortars shells (5-6/day) into fields. People with fields close to the army outposts abandoned them.
25 January 2007 LID-88 battalions (above) replaced MOC-15 ones, and built a new outpost on a hill called Sho Daw Kho. They used the hill to fire mortars. People fled without being able to bring food and have since crossed the Yunzalin River. They assumed that they would be able to turn shortly, but this is not the case. Currently, they rely on people in the area for food. (1,500 baskets of paddy and 50 baskets of rice reportedly lost.) Road construction designed to pass through areas close to villages in Baw Lay Der, Ta Kheh Der, Geh Yu Der, Kleh Mu, Leh Khee, and Si Day.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 493
Goal: Clear area for road, cut communications, facilitate military movements, and establish more bases in the area.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Khay Pu Si Day 32 275 2 Khay Pu Leh Khee 50 864 3 Khay Pu Baw Lay Der 33 285 4 Khay Pu Ta Kheh Der 23 271 5 Khay Pu Geh Yu Der 27 207 6 Khay Pu Kleh Mu 29 210 194 2,112
Military Operations Update (ERA Revised)
2 August 2007 Troops [not specified] departed Wa Klay Tu (Mu Plaw area) and entered an IDP hiding area (Htee Thoo Lo in Htee Bway Khee) where villages from Saw Mu Plaw were staying. Villages fled in different directions. Troops seized all of the rice and other food. Troops also found a paddy barn with 100 baskets of paddy.
8 August Troops [not specified] based in Khay Pu Village crossed the Yunzalin River and traveled east to Geh Yu Der Village area and nearby hiding sites. They burnt 14 houses. Total from Khay Pu and Ta May Khee hiding in the Geh Yu Der area had to flee again in the rain.
8 August Troops [not specified] departed Ler Mu Plaw and entered the Yu Kho Hta area.
8 August Troops [not specified] departed Pwa Gaw and entered the Yu Kho Htaw area.
These patrols are ongoing.
10 August Troops [not specified] based in Maw Poo and Maw Soe outposts fired 16 mortars into Ta Kaw To Baw and Tha Dah Der Villages. Residents fled.
28 September Troops [not specified] departed Pwa Gaw and entered Wa Doh Hta and Pway Khee where Saw Mu Plaw villagers were hiding. Troops seized all of the paddy, rice, and other food.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 494
ERA Distribution Summary 28 April 2008
Demographics:
Provided aid as per request. 52% were female (1,098) and 48% were male (1,012). Approximately 25% were under ten (53).
Logistics:
Depart 10 November 2007 and return 19 December (39 days).
Livelihood:
Hillside cultivation with some animal husbandry (pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks).
Since early 2007 increasing militarization (much of road construction related) has disrupted food production. Most villagers have had to abandon their fields. Nearest clinic, Na Yo Hta, is a full day’s walk.
Situation Update:
Target assistance area is a “black area” (shoot on sight) under KNU control.
KORD reports that 13 villages have been abandoned or destroyed since road construction began, including all 6 of the villages targeted in request 2012.
25 October 2007 Troops [not specified] based in Phla Kho entered Ti Thu Der Village shot and injured a 59 year-old man. The next day the troops entered Thay Thu Khee Village then shot and awounded two males, ages 46 and 49.
27 October Troops [not specified] based in Ta Ler Ker Kho camp fired 81 mm shells into Hta Lah Kho Village, injuring 5 people.
28 October Troops [not specified] arrested 2 Hto Wee Khee Villagers, ages 50 and 13. Their whereabouts are not known.
11 November 2 villagers from Leh Khee stepped on SPDC landmines.
3 December LIB-501 began patrolling Ta Khaw Hto Baw and Tha Dar Der areas, causing more people to flee.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 495
Military Situation Update:
April 2007 LID-88 and MOC-15 battalions entered Kay Pu Village Tract to finish road construction (Ler Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khee / Mu Traw – Taw Oo). The troops established a lot of frontline camps to provide security. Goal: to facilitate transport of military rations, ammunition and equipment, break communication, and “overrun the whole northern Karen area.”
Following villages abandoned/destroyed: Khay Bu, Khu Mu Der, Kaw Ter Der, Ta Kheh Der, Ta May Khee, Htee Baw Lay, Bo Na Der, Thay Thu Khee, Kleh Mu, Bah Hleh Der, Hsi Day Ghey Yu Der, and Leh Khee.
Bases in Lu Thaw Township:
MOC-4, Tactical #1 based Ka Maw Kyo.
LID-88 Tactical-881, based in Ghaw Daw Kho Tactical-882, based in Ta Kheh Der Tactical-883, based in Hsweh Kyo
MOC-16 Tactical 1, based in Ler Mu Plaw Tactical 2, based in Saw Mu Plaw
MOC-1 Tactical 1, based Maw Pu Tactical 2, based in Ler Klay Kyo
LID-33 Tactical 1, based in Baw Gay Kho Tactical 2, based in Kaw Baw Tu Southern Command
Special battalion 60, based in Ta Gaw Hta
Mortar fire into suspected IDP hiding places frequent and landmine in fields and paths widespread since road construction began.
19 August 2007 Saw [Name Redacted] (age 24) from Leh Khee stepped on a SPDC landmine and “cut his leg.”
25 October Troops based a Phla Kho [not identified] shot at villagers at Ti Thu Der; one villager, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 19) wounded.
26 October The same troops shot at 2 people, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 49) and Naw [Name Redacted] (age 46), from Thay Thu Khee Village; both were wounded.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 496
27 October Troops based in Ta Ler Ker Kho camp fired 81 mm shells into Hta Lah Kho Village; 5 people wounded: 1) Naw [Name Redacted] (44), 2) Naw [Name Redacted] (13), 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (18), 4) Saw [Name Redacted] (60), and 5) Saw [Name Redacted] (25).
28 October 2 villagers from Hto Wee Khee, Naw [Name Redacted] (age 50) and [Name Redacted] (age 13), arrested. Their whereabouts remain unknown.
19 November 2 villagers from Leh Khee Village, Saw [Name Redacted] and Saw [Name Redacted], stepped on landmines in the village.
November bulldozers began to arrive. Used in Ta Kheh Der, Ghaw Daw Kho, Ka Maw Kho, Bo Hay Kho, Saw Mu Plaw, and Ler Mu Plaw, respectively. Increase in patrols corresponded with road construction.
3 December LIB-501 entered Ta Kha Hto Baw and Tha Dar Der areas. Patrols resulted in further Total. SPDC continues to send troops into the frontline areas to clear the KNU.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 497
Report Number KORD-2007-13
Date Submitted: 27 July 2007
Location: West of Belin River and Hpapun Town
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mutraw Dwe Lo Mae Way Ma Lay Ler Nah Kho Khee
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 11 552 3,914
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-44, LID-11 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-3, LIB-207, LIB-213, LIB-216, LIB-219 Infantry Battalions IB-216 Other DKBA Ka Hsaw Wah Battalion
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 498
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 499
KORD-2007-13 ERA Summary 27 July 2007
Demographics:
3,914 people (552 households) from 11 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Mae Way, Maly Ler, and Nah Ko Khee Village Tracts, Dwe Lo Township, Mutraw District). Target population: 834 children (398 girls, 436 boys <5) 1,498 females and 1,582 males >5.
Mixed administration area. Located west of Belin River and Hpapun Town.
Rationale:
Lowland area largely under SPDC control, but some areas under DKBA. Irrigated farming primary, though some do shifting cultivation and have plantations. Some collect dog fruit to augment their income.
LID-44 (LIB-3, LIB-207, and IB-8) and LID-11 (LIB-213, LIB-216, and LIB-219) plus DKBA’s Ka Hsaw Wah battalion controls the village tracts. Htoo logging company is doing business using Belin – Hpapun Road. Hat Gyi dam is close by as well.
March – beginning of April 2007 Troops using road to transport military supplies and food rations to Lay Khaw Hti during the dry season in preparation for next season patrols/offensives and/or dam security. Forced labor also common. One person from every household in each of the area’s 30 villages forced to porter supplies at least 6 times/month. Troops routinely demand thatch, bamboo, and wood for camp construction.
SPDC troops patrol along the Bilin River and the road to provide security for transport. The eleven villages included in this request are the most affected. Troops destroyed their farms and crops on more than 10 occasions during October-November 2006. Travel restrictions and forced labor (as porters) during March and April 2007 prevented them from preparing next year’s crops and panning for gold in Mae Waing River. SPDC troops set fire to the forest in areas where villagers have cut trees for the field preparation, but before it was time. Their plots were ruined as a result.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 500
ERA Request 13 June 2007
Location and Livelihoods:
11 villages: 1) Mae Paw Khee, Khlo Khee, To Mae Khee, Ma Lay Ler, Phway Pwa, Thay Kho, Nah Kh Khee, Ka Wa Khee, Oo Ray Khee, Maw Khee, and Saw Di Hta, located in 3 village tracts (Mae Way, Ma Lay Ner, and Nah Ko Khee), Dwe Lo Township of Mu Traw (Hpapun) District.
Situated between Khu Thu Hta (Hla Gon Pyo) and Mae Way (Mae Waing), west of Hpapun Town.
Lowland paddy cultivation with some cash crops, day labor, and panning for gold (Belin River) during dry season. Collect dog fruit during rainy season. Some animal husbandry (cattle and buffalo).
People used to purchase rice from Lay Khaw Hti and Lwa Weh Hta (transported from Belin Town) when local rice production insufficient.
Period:
Beginning of March – beginning of April 2007.
Military Units:
LID-44 (LIB-3, LIB-207, and IB-8) LID-11 (LIB-213, LIB-216, and LIB-219) DKBA’s Ka Hsaw Wah battalion
Military Situation:
Area hard hit during 1997 offensive, and many villages were relocated. Total gradually returned a few years later as military control lessened.
Mixed administration area: SPDC, DKBA, and KNU. Forced labor, extortion (messenger fee, volunteer fee, etc.), portering, travel restrictions, and so on common.
Each village has 2 headmen: 1 for SPDC/DKBA and 1 for the KNU.
Old colonial-era road connected Bilin town to Hpapun Town. During BSPP and SLORC periods still used every year. 1991 no longer used. Htoo logging company (U Tin Za owner) began using it in 2002 and 2003.
Early March Troops began transporting supplies and rations from Belin via Lay Kha Hti to frontline camps in Mae Pray Khee, Khu Thu Hta, Mae Way, and Maw Thay Tha to store over
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 501
rainy season. Porters have to transport from Lay Kha Hti to camps. 1 person/household for 6 days/month from each of the 30 villages in the area, as well as provide construction materials for the camps.
4 columns from IB-8 and LIB-207 (under LID-44) patrol the eastern side of the road and Belin River from Khu Thu Hta north to Lay Khaw Hti. 2 IB-8 columns stay close to road and river, while 2 LIB-207 columns go farther to foothills of Dwe Lo mountain range. LIB-3 provides security along the eastern side of the road and river from Khu Thu Hta south, where the risk of attack is lower.
LIB-213, LIB-216, and LIB-219 (under LID-11) patrol from Lay Khaw Hti to Mae Way and Maw Thay Tha. LIB-219 patrol between Lay Khaw Hti and Mae Way, LIB-213 from Mae Way to Maw Thay Tha, and 2 columns of LIB-216 from Pwa Weh Hta to Kwee Ta Ma and Ma Lay Ler on the western side of the Belin River.
Early April target date for finishing resupply. Once finished, LIB-3 and IB-8 to return to Lay Kay camp (Thaton District), and LIB-207 to camp in Khu Thu Hta (Hla Gon Pyo). LIB-216 will return to Shwegyin (Nyaunglebin District), LIB-213 to Maw Thay Tha camp, and LIB-219 to Kho Sho camp on the border of Nyaunglebin and Hpapun Districts.
Food security
6 villages (from May Way and May Lay Ler Village Tracts) previously targeted during October- November 2006 harvest. Patrols destroyed fields on more than 10 occasions. Villagers were only able to harvest enough food to eat for 1-2 months on average. Total included in a previous ERA request, but KORD dropped them because they had to prioritize Total from other villages.
11 villages during March and April 2007 forced to property supplies to frontline camps in Mae Way and Maw Thay Tha, as well as construction materials. Travel restrictions imposed to prevent communication with KNU regarding military resupply operations. The restrictions prevented villagers for panning for gold in Mae Waing River or obtain day labor.
October-November 2006 SPDC troops from Baw Kyo Thaw and Ma Hta areas and DKBA battalion impose travel restrictions on villagers in Nah Kho Khee Village Tract (east side of Bilin River) while patrolling the Dwe Lo range. Troops fired mortars into area to keep them from secretly working their fields. This reduced their ability to fully harvest their fields. Most of them could harvest only enough to make it to May (at most.).
March-April 2007 Villagers in Nah Kho Khee Village Tract (east side of Bilin River) rely on upland farming, especially along the side of the Dwe Lo range. LIB-207 imposed travel restrictions and then set fire to trees cleared for fields in March before they were properly dried. Villagers not able to systematically sow fields as a result.
People rely on river transport for market access. Some traders used to come upriver and sell goods on the riverbank. People from Mae Way and Nah Ko Khee used to buy things from Pwa Weh Hta, which is on the riverbank too. Rice averaged 9,000 kyat/tin.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 502
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Mae way Khlo Khee 53 159 126 43 34 362 2 Mae way To Mae Khee 34 85 89 33 33 240 3 Mae way Mae Paw Khee 76 203 190 60 50 503 4 Ma Lay Ler Pway Pwa 27 79 68 31 26 204 5 Ma Lay Ler Thay Kyo 24 64 79 8 11 162 6 Ma Lay Ler Ma Lay Ler 47 126 128 54 42 350 7 Nah Ko Khee Nah Kho Khee 73 214 196 50 52 512 8 Nah Ko Khee Maw Khee 37 91 79 19 23 212 9 Nah Ko Khee Oo Ray Khee 53 151 145 41 44 381 10 Nah Ko Khee Ka Waw Khee 64 224 212 41 38 515 11 Nah Ko Khee Saw Di Hta 64 186 186 56 45 473 552 1,582 1,498 436 398 3,914
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 503
Report Number CIDKP-2007-01
Date Submitted: 21 February 2007
Location: North of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., west of Yunzalin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Hsaw Mu Plaw Ler Mu Plaw
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 5 152 1,268
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10, MOC-15, MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-361, LIB-363, LIB-364 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 504
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 505
CIDKP-2007-01 ERA Request Summary 21 February 2007
Demographics:
1,268 people (152 households) from 5 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Hsaw Mu Plaw and Ler Mu Plaw Village Tracts, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District). Target population: 107 girls and 84 boys under 5 years of age; 559 females and 518 males over 5 years of age.
Hiding area and villagers flee whenever patrols approach. Situated north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road, west of the Yunzalin River, and east of Kyaukgyi Town.
Rationale:
OCH-10, OCH-15, and OCH-16 began patrolling the area on an ongoing basis beginning in April 2006 through the end of the year. Houses and rice stores burnt or abandoned, paddy fields destroyed (mortars and seedlings uprooted), domestic animals killed, and indiscriminate shooting/shelling.
OCH-15 conducted patrols in Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract from early July through the end of August 2006, prompting villagers to abandon 40 plots of paddy, seed with 380 paddy-seeds [baskets/tins?], capable of producing approximately 14,500 baskets of paddy. Troops and wild animals destroyed the crops.
OCH-16 conducted patrols in Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract during September and October 2006. Patrols forced villagers to abandon 78 plots of land, seeded with 587 [tins/baskets?], capable of producing approximately 22,500 baskets of paddy. Troops and wild animals destroyed the crops.
Combined operations led to the destruction / abandonment of 118 upland fields, capable of producing approximately 37,000 baskets of paddy between July and October 2006.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 506
CIDKP ERA Request 21 February 2007
Area:
Thet Khi, Thet Hsar Khi, Hsaw Kar Der, Pwa Kho, and That Tu Khi Villages, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw (Hpapun) District.
Background and Topography:
Hsaw Mu Plaw and Ler Mu Plaw Village Tracts are located in northern Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw (Hpapun) District. Yunzalin River runs from northwest to southeast, but it is not navigable. Some flat land along it and its tributaries. The land is a mix of mid- and upland, otherwise.
Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta Road passes through Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract, Pla Kho Village Tract, and Tay Mu Der Village Tract. The military uses the road (mostly during the dry season) to transport troops and supplies.
People in Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract displaced during Four Cuts (1975-1977). They returned after troops withdrew. Troop movements during this period also forced villages in Ler Mu Plaw, Kay Pu, and Nor Yo Hta Village Tracts to repeatedly flee and return.
During the 1997 offensive, troops burnt down almost all of the villages, and people relocated to Kay Pu and Nor Yo Hta Village Tracts. The army established military camps throughout the affected area, preventing Total from returning to their destroyed and abandoned villages.
Livelihoods:
Primarily upland paddy farming. Due to military operations, villagers from Hsaw Mu Plaw and some from Ler Mu Plaw Village Tracts have relocated to Kay Pu and Nor Yo Hta, which has reduced the total amount of arable upland areas available for cultivation.
Military Situation:
Mid-April 2006 MOC-10 begins operations in Lu Thaw Township.
17 April LIB-364 fires heavy weapons from Ler Mu Daw Kho into Ka Baw Khi, Sro Per Kho, Pa Nar Ku Plaw, and Htee Bway Khi Villages in Le Mu Plaw Village Tract. Troops conducted patrols for 4 days and then withdrew.
27 April One column of troops under the Military Command Central No. 2 enters Ta Kot Doh Baw / Tha Der Hser Hta Village, Lu Thaw Township at about 14:30 hours. Troops burn down 24 houses, 16 paddy barns containing 7,000 tins of paddy and 100 tins of rice. 8 May Troops [not specified] burn down 51 houses and 1 paddy barn, and killed 1 water buffalo in Ta Baw Kaw Der and Tae Po Plaw village area. Troops found and destroyed a total of: 12
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 507
farm huts, 14 paddy barns (containing 1,796 tins of paddy and 96 tins of rice). They ate / looted: 92 goats, 217 chickens, 87 ducks, 31 pigs, 83 viss of salt, and 34 viss of chilies.
3 June Troops [not specified] entered the Ka Baw Khi area and destroyed 3 paddy plots and 129 baskets of paddy.
7 June LIB-361 and LIB-363 fired 3 mortar shells at about 16:00 hours into suspected hiding areas near Baw Kaw Plaw in Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract.
8 June These above battalions launched 6 mortars from Hwi Me Kyo and fired machine guns into the Pwo Kler Der village area, Naw Yo Hta Village Tract.
10 June Troops [not specified] fired 30 heavy weapon shells into Thay Ko Mu Der Village.
15 June Troops [not specified] fired 42 heavy weapon shells at 17:00 hours from Ler Mu Plo towards the eastern [side of] Bwe Loe (Yunzalin River). Troops also burnt down 13 houses, 3 farm huts, shot and ate 1 goat and 1 pig in the Ker Gaw Kho Bler Gaw area, Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract. Troops also entered Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract and burnt down 11 houses and 50 baskets of paddy in the Pa Nar Ku Plaw area; burnt 6 baskets of paddy from Ker Gawk Kho; and burnt 132 baskets of paddy in Htee Baw Khi.
2nd week of July Troops [not specified] burnt down 29 farms in Ta Baw Kaw Der, 12 farms in Htee Moo Khi, 3 farms in Htee Baw Khi, and 11 farms in Tae Naw in Hsaw Mu Plaw Village Tract.
Last week of July through the last week of August troops returned to camps and patrolled the nearby areas only.
September MOC-15 resumed operations and conducted patrols in Pwa Kho and Thaw Tu Khi areas in Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract for 10 days. During the patrols, troops destroyed 16 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately 6,000 baskets of paddy) in Pwa Kho and 13 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately 3,500 baskets of paddy) [in Thaw Tu Khi?]. Farmers abandoned an additional 11 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately 5,000 baskets of paddy).
Last week of September through first week of October MOC-16 from Mu Theh entered the Thet Khi, Thet Hsar Khi, and Hsaw Kar Der area. Troops and destroyed 9 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately 6,500 baskets) and villagers abandoned 16 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately 8,000 baskets) in the Thet Khi area. Patrols prompted villagers in Thet Hsar Khi to abandon 27 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately 8,000 baskets) and villages in Hsaw Kar Der to abandoned 26 seeded paddy plots (capable of producing approximately capable of producing 5,000 baskets).
Villagers from the above 5 villages (Thet Khi, Thet Hsar Khi, Hsaw Kar Der, Pwa Kho, and That Tu Khi) were able to move some of their paddy while troops were conducting operations in middle and eastern parts of Hsaw Mu Plaw and Ler Mu Plaw areas. Paddy will support them
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 508
through the harvest for this year, but shortages loom due to the amount destroyed by troops and wild animals.
Total among of paddy destroyed or abandoned during operations: 188 upland paddy fields capable of producing approximately 37,000 baskets (1 basket = 2 tins).
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Hsaw Mu Plaw Thet Khi 25 84 107 17 18 226 2 Hsaw Mu Plaw Thet Hsar Khi 27 97 88 14 12 211 3 Hsaw Mu Plaw Hsaw Kar Der 26 84 76 12 17 189 4 Ler Mu Plaw Pwa Kho 30 97 113 13 22 245 5 Ler Mu Plaw Thaw Tu Khi 44 156 175 28 38 397 152 518 559 84 107 1,268
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 509
ERA Distribution Summary 6 August 2007
Demographics:
Assistance provided to 1,268 people as per original request.
Logistics:
Departed 8 April 2007 and returned 7 May (30 days).
Situation Update:
The report does not cover the area where the distribution occurred, as SPDC troops withdrew prior to it.
Some details on events north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road. During April and early May 2007 MOC-1 and LID-88 troops fired 46 mortar shells into villages, 2 villagers shot dead, 1 wounded, 6 villages and 11 farm huts destroyed, as were 42 baskets of rice and 128 baskets of paddy.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 510
ERA Distribution Report
Livelihoods:
Total able to purchase rice in northern Lu Thaw, Pa Pun, and Mae Nu Hta. Price rose from 7,500 kyat/tin at time of request to 10,000 kyat/tin at time of distribution.
Military Situation Update:
No operations in Hsaw Mu Plaw, Ler Mu Plaw, and Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tracts at time of distribution. However, MOC/OCH-1 and LID-88 were both active in Kay Pu Village Tract.
7 April 2007 Troops [not specified] burnt down Bo Nar Der.
11 April Troops [not specified] burnt down Taw Ku Mu Der.
22 April Troops [not specified] burnt 16 houses, 42 baskets of rice, 128 baskets of paddy in Htee Bway Khi and Htee Si Khi Villages. Saw [Name Redacted] (61) from Htee Bway Khi shot and killed.
26 April 2 battalions under MOC-1 command left Ta Ler Ker Kho and took position at Paw Nar Kyo in the Tha May Khi area.
28 April These battalions fired mortars beginning at 7:10 hours. 5 mortars landed in Plow Law Klo. [Name Redacted] (male 55) from Tha May Khi wounded. At 10:00 hours troops fired mortars into Kay Pu Plaw and then entered the Kay Pu area, burning down a village tract office building and 11 farmhouses. At 14:00 hours, troops fired shells from Swe Kyo / Ta Ka Lar Kho into Kay Pu, Plo Hta, and Da Baw Hta. 21 shells (total) landed in these three areas. No one was wounded. 17:00 hours, LID-88 burnt down Kleh Mu Village, took position at Ta Twee Kyo, and fired mortars into Kleh Mu Village area beginning at 18:30 hours. 11 shells landed.
27 April Troops [not specified] from War Klay Htu entered Htee Baw Khi and opened fire. Saw [Name Redacted] (46) shot and killed. Troops remained nearby for more than one week to shot anyone who tried to return to bury the body.
29 April Troops [not specified] fired heavy weapons into Kaw Ter Der Village. At 12:00 hours, troops burnt down 5 houses in Kay Pu Village and hiding places in the Si Day area. At 19:30 hours, troops from Tay Lah Lu and Maw Hta fired mortars into suspected IDP hiding places.
2 May Troops [not specified] from Sro Kyo entered Kler Loe Village at 10:00 hours and burned down 5 houses.
3 May Troops [not specified] fired three 88 mm shells into the Kay Pu Plaw and Da Baw Khi areas beginning at 10:00 hours. Troops fired two 120mm shells into Kay Pu at 11:53 houses, and 4 more into the Ku Mu Der area at 12:07 hours. 9 shells total fired.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 511
Troops [not specified] fired shells to instill fear rather than to destroy. KNLA troops provide warnings to Total via wireless message where possible and villagers organize patrols. Total are still hiding in the forest.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 512
ERA Impact Assessment Follow-Up Report No date provided (post-March 2008)
Market Assessment:
Total able to purchase rice from people who own wet paddy fields in Kay Pu and Naw Yo Hta areas. People are also able to buy rice in Mu Theh and Kwee Doh Kaw. From Ler Mu Plaw and Hsaw Mu Plaw to Mu Theh is a 1-2 day walk, and to Kwee Doh Kaw, a 2-3 day walk. Price of Rice has risen to 12,000 kyat/tin
No looting or forced taxation following ERA distribution.
Military Situation Update:
30 July 2007 Troops [not specified] from Ler Mu Plaw entered Thet Khi, Thet Sar Khi, and Htee Nya Moe Khi areas, and fired heavy weapons into suspected IDP hiding places. 600 people fled and had to hide in the forest for 2 weeks.
November 2007 – January 2008 Troops [not specified] transported military supplies to temporary outposts set up along Kyaukgyi – Hsa Hta Road and Maw Pu – Bu Hsa Khi Road.
6 March Troops [not specified] from Paw Day Kho fired 8 heavy weapon shells into Htee Moo Khi – Tae Bo Plaw areas, Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract. 200 households (1,500 people total) from 5 villages fled. People not yet returned as of date report written.
KNLA troops pass information regarding SPDC movements and possible routes. Total also organize their own patrols.
Livelihoods:
Total forced to cultivate upland areas with poor soils. 1 tin of paddy only produces approximately 20 tins. Paddy often divided into 2-3 different hiding places.
No day labor opportunities. People hunt, fish, and gather forest products during rainy season.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 513
Report Number CIDKP-2007-05
Date Submitted: 6 March 2007
Location: South Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., west of Yunzalin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Yeh Mu Plaw
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 3 95 733
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-10 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-307, LIB-602 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 514
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 515
CIDKP-2007-05 ERA Request Summary 6 March 2007
Demographics:
733 people (95 households) from 3 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District) 51 girls and 66 boys under 5 and 298 females and 309 males over 5.
Hiding area situated south of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road, west of the Yunzalin River, and east of Kyaukgyi Town.
Combination of upland and lowland paddy fields, cotton, tobacco, ground nuts. Animal husbandry also common (chicken, ducks, goats, and pigs).
Rationale:
OCH-10 launched patrols beginning in June 2006. People flee whenever troops approach. Weather, animals, and pest destroyed crops while they were in hiding. New outpost established in July and 6 paddy farms abandoned.
January LIB-307 and LIB-602 passed through area and villagers fled again.
Estimated total losses: 2,530 baskets of paddy in Po Kyweh Der Village, 3,450 baskets in Pa He Der Village, and 3,572 in Kaw Moe Bwa Der Village. Together, equivalent to about 8 months food supply.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 516
ERA Request 6 March 2007
Background:
1975 Four Cuts caused people to flee. They returned approximately 3 years later. 1997 campaign resulted in the destruction of nearly all of the villages. People later returned when troops withdrew. No permanent camps established.
Military Operations:
7 June 2006 Troops [not specified] pass through this village tract en route to Ker Par Village Tract. People in Ta Paw Der, Ta Mae Der, Pa Heh Der, Po Kyweh Der, and Kaw Moe Bwa Der fled and hid in the jungle for 2 weeks. People did not dare to work their fields during this period.
17 July 2006 MOC-10 troops returned and people from the same villagers fled again. Troops established new camp at Thay Wah Kyo. Villagers from Kaw Moe Bwa Der abandoned 6 paddy farms.
September – October 2006 MOC-10 troops frequently patrolled Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract, preventing people for regularly weeding their fields. Heavy rains also damaged irrigation systems. Many fields flooded as a result and rats ate much of what not damaged.
8-9 January 2007 LIB-307 and LIB-602 passed through village tract en route Key Par Village, returning on 12 January 2007.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Yeh Mu Plaw Po Kyweh Der 22 86 74 21 13 194 2 Yeh Mu Plaw Pah He Der 34 111 110 17 16 263 3 Yeh Mu Plaw Kaw Moe Baw Der 39 112 114 28 22 276 95 309 298 66 51 733
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 517
ERA Distribution Summary 6 August 2007
Demographics:
Assistance provided as per original request.
Logistics:
Depart 8 April 2007 and return 7 May 2007 (30 days).
Situation Update:
Patrols withdrew, but they remain active immediately north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road, especially the Kaypu area.
April – early May MOC-1 and LID-88 patrolled Kaypu Village Tract and fired 46 mortar shells into villages. Troops shot and killed 2 villagers, injured 1. Troops burnt 6 villages and 11 farm huts. 42 baskets of rice and 128 baskets of paddy destroyed.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 518
Livelihoods:
People can purchase rice from northern Lu Thaw, Pa Pun, and Mae Nu Hta. During the ERA distribution, local prices rose to 10,000 kyat/tin.
Military Operations Update:
No reported patrols in Hsaw Mu Pler, Ler Mu Plaw, or Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tracts. However, active patrols (MOC/OCH-1 and LID-88) north of these village tracts in Kay Pu.
7 April 2007 Troops [not specified] but down Bo Nar Dar [Village].
11 April troops burnt Taw Ku Mu Der [Village].
22 April Htee Bway Khi and Htee Si Khi burnt: 16 houses, 42 baskets of rice, and 128 baskets of paddy total. Troops [not specified] shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (age 61) from Htee Bway Khi.
26 April 2 battalions under MOC-1 left Ta Ler Ker Kho and took positions in Paw Nar Kyo in the Tha May Khi area.
28 April At 7:10 am the battalions fired mortars into Plo Law Klo (7:10 am on). 5 shells landed. [Name Redacted] (male age 55) from Thay May Khi wounded. At 10:00 am the battalions fired mortars into Kay Pu Plaw, entered the Kay Pu area, burnt down an office building belong to the local administration, and then burnt down 11 farm houses. At 14:00 troops from Swe Kyo/Ta Ka Lar Kho fired mortars into Kay Pu, Plo Hta, Da Baw Hta. 21 shells total landed in these areas. No injuries reported. At 17:00 LID-88 burnt down Kleh Mu Village and took position at Ta Thwee Kyo. At 18:30 these troops fired 11 mortars in the area around Kleh Mu Village.
27 April Troops [not specified] from War Klay Htu entered Htee Baw Khi and fired on villagers working their fields. Saw [Name Redacted] (age 46) shot and killed. Troops remained nearby for 1 week to prevent from people returning to bury the body.
29 April Troops [not specified] fire heavy weapon shells into Kaw Ter Der Village. At 12:00 they burn down 5 houses in Kay Pu Village and then IDP hiding places in the Si Day area. At 19:30 they fired mortars from Tay Lah Lu and Maw Hta at suspected IDP hiding sites.
2 May Troops [not specified] from Sro Kyo burnt down 5 houses at Kler Loe Village at 10:00. 3 May At 8:20 troops [not specified] fired 3 81mm shells into the Kay Pu Plaw and Da Baw Khi area. At 11:53 they fired 2 120mm mortar shells to Kay Pu [Village]. At 12:07 they fired 4 shells into the Ku Mu Der area. 9 shells total.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 519
Troops fired mortars on a regular basis during the day and night, but not many shells. “Their aim was to keep villagers under constant fear.” KNLA provide warnings to Total using wireless messages and some villagers organize their own patrols. Total dispersed into different hiding areas.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 520
Report Number CIDKP-2007-17
Date Submitted: 6 September 2007
Location: West of Yunzalin River, north Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Kay Pu
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 12 394 2,944
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1, MOC-10, MOC-15 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1, MOC-15 Light Infantry Division LIB-88 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other TOC-881, TOC-882
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 521
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 522
CIDKP-2007-17 (Revised) ERA Request Summary 6 September 2007
Demographics:
2,944 people (394 households) from 12 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Kay Pu Village Tract, Lu Taw Township, Mu Traw District). 498 children (235 girls and 263 boys) under 5 years of age and 1,215 females and 1,231 males over 5 years of age.
Location: west of the Yunzalin (Bwe Loe Klo) River, north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road, south of the Karenni State border. Area: Free-fire zone and villagers flee to the jungle whenever SPDC patrols approach their hiding villages.
Rationale:
SPDC road construction, which began in early 2007, is located near new IDP hiding sites. Troops regularly fire shells, burnt homes and paddy barns. More than a hundred houses and 11 farm huts as well as 100 baskets of paddy destroyed.
5 battalions under LID-88 and MOC-1 carrying out patrols along the car road under construction during April and May, adversely affecting the livelihoods of villagers living nearby. Troops fired more than 50 mortars during this period. Troops also shot and killed 2 elderly villagers and wounded another.
Comments:
FBR has also documented increased pressures on livelihoods and security due to road contraction, linking Saw Mu Plaw and Bu Hsa Khi, which will split northern Karen State into quarters.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 523
CIDKP ERA Request 6 September 2007
Background and Topography:
Yunzalin River runs from northwest to southeast, but not navigable. Some flat land along river and tributaries. The rest is a mix of lowland and highland areas.
Army conducted Four-Cut operations in 1975 but did not remain. Army conduced Scorched Earth campaigns during 1997-1998 and, at times, occupied the entire Kay Pu Village Tract. Troops withdrew in 2002-2003 and village life stabilized; everyone had enough to eat. Village tracts in Ler Mu Plaw and Taw Oo District often depended upon Kay Pu Village Tract for food and other supplies.
Army operations resumed in 2006-2007 when construction on Pywa Gaw to Bu Sar Khi Road began. Troops burnt down villages, fields, etc. located close to the road. Total tried to collect their paddy and rice at night knowing that troops will shot to kill them on sight. Total currently hiding in the forest and unable to cultivate land.
Livelihoods:
Mix of upland and lowland paddy. Military operations in 2006 coincided with planting season. Troops conducted further operations in the fall during harvest season in Shro Per Kho, Htee Si Khi, Htee Bway Khi, Ta Ru Khi, and Bo Nar Der. Villagers had to abandon their paddy.
Military Operations:
2006 MOC-10 and MOC-15 launch operations in Kay Pu Village Tract.
2007 3 battalions (under LID-88) and 2 battalions (under MOC) begin operations.
7 April Troops [not specified] burns 7 homes in Bo Nar Der Village.
11 April Troops [not specified] burn 33 houses and 100 baskets of paddy in Htee Bway Khi and Htee Si Khi Villages. Troops shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (61) of Htee Bway Khi Village.
26 April 2 battalions under MOC-1 depart Ta Ler Ker Kho and take position at Paw Nar Kyo in Thay May Khi area.
27 April the same troops fire 5 mortars into Plow Law Klo beginning at 7:10 am. [Name Redacted] (55 male) from [Name Redacted] wounded. More mortars fired at 10:00 am into Kay Pu Plaw. Troops later entered and burned one [administrative] building belonging to the village tract and 11 farmhouses. 27 April 2 battalions under LID-88 begin road construction in the village tract. “Thus, whenever Burma army comes out, they have to avoid them and if they see villagers on the way or hiding
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 524
places or in any places, Burma army shoots them.” Villagers rely upon KNLA early warning messages to avoid patrols.
28 April 2 battalions under MOC-1 fire mortars into Kay Pu, Plo Hta, Daw Baw Hta beginning at 14:00 pm. 21 shells land these village areas. No wounded.
28 April LID-88 troops [battalions not specified] burnt down Kleh Mu Village. 22 homes and 1 church destroyed. Troops took position at Ta Thwee Kyo and fired mortars into Kleh Mu Village area beginning at 18:30 hours. 11 shells total.
29 April Troops [not specified] fire heavy weapons at Kaw Ter Der Village, later burned down 5 houses in Kay Pu Village, and then IDP hiding places in Si Day area. Troops fired mortars beginning at 19:30 from Tay Lah Lu and Maw Hta into suspected IDP hiding areas.
2 May Troops [not specified] burned 5 houses in Kler Loe Village starting at 10:00.
3 May Troops [not specified] fire three 81mm shells into Kay Pu Plaw and Da Baw Khi areas at 8:20 hours. At 11:53 hours, troops fire two 120mm mortar shells into Kay Pu and, at 12:07, 4 shells into Ku Mu Der area. 9 shells total fired.
12 May Troops [not specified] burn down 1 house and 2 farmhouses in Ta Keh Der area.
14 May Troops [not specified] burn down 26 houses in Baw Lay Der area.
17 May Troops [not specified] enter Hser Ter area. Troops shot and killed Naw [Name Redacted] (27) from Bler Gaw Village while sowing seed in fields. Troops also burned down one house with 20 tins of paddy, and then fired 20 mortar shells into suspected IDP hiding places.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 525
Paddy Barns Abandoned / Burnt
No. Village Baskets of Paddy Comments 1 Ta May Khi 200 Burnt 2 Htee Bway Khi 200 Burnt 3 Ta Khe Der 2,380 1,360 Burnt 1,020 Abandoned 2,780
Upland Fields Abandoned
No. Village Upland Farms Paddy Seed (tin) 1 Geh Yu Der 14 241 2 Hta Keh Der 14 265 3 Sie Day 23 435 4 Leh Khi 44 782 5 Baw Lay Der 46 845 141 2,568
Note: 1 tin of seed produces between 30-45 tins of paddy
Lowland Fields Abandoned
No. Village No. Paddy Fields Acres 1 Kay Pu 33 86.75 2 Ke Luh Der 26 51.4 3 Thay Thoo Khi 9 12.5 4 Taw Ku Mu Der 7 13 5 Ta May Khi 4 6.25 6 Leh Khi 4 7.25 7 Baw Lay Der 5 9.75 8 Kaw Ter Der 8 13.5 9 Ta Keh Der 2 2.75 10 Ku Ger Der 1 2.25 99 205.04
Note: One acre yields approximately 100 tins of paddy
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 526
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Kay Pu Thay Thoo Khi 57 183 164 25 27 399 2 Kay Pu Kay Pu 67 234 208 44 39 525 3 Kay Pu Shro Per Kho 39 132 126 21 23 302 4 Kay Pu Ta Yu Plaw 47 134 149 22 18 323 5 Kay Pu Bo Nar Der 17 58 49 10 10 127 6 Kay Pu Ta May Khi 17 40 48 16 16 120 7 Kay Pu Taw Ku Mu Der 42 122 127 33 30 312 8 Kay Pu Htee Si Khi 15 57 49 17 11 134 9 Kay Pu Plo Khi 30 85 108 17 18 228 10 Kay Pu Ta Yu Khi 26 83 80 22 20 205 11 Kay Pu Kaw Ter Der 17 46 49 14 7 116 12 Kay Pu Htee Bway Khi 20 57 58 22 16 153 394 1,231 1,215 263 235 2,944
Note: 12,000 kyat/tin of rice in Kay Pu area. People with contacts can buy rice in Maw Chi and Ta Hgaw Hta.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 527
ERA Distribution Summary 21 December 2007
Demographics:
Aid distributed to 2,850 people (380 households) from 12 villages in Hpapun Township. Note 94 people fewer than originally requested. KNU refers to Kay Pu Village Tract in Lu Thaw Township. 17% of the beneficiaries under the age of 5.
Logistics:
Depart 31 October and return 26 November (27 days).
Military Situation:
Troops active in area under command of LID-88 and TOC-882 from Taw Oo District (Toungoo). KNLA not able to provide full security, but keep them updated on troop movements.
During 2006 MOC-1, MOC-15, LID-88, TOC-881, “3 battalions and MOC-1 and 2, two battalions” [unclear] active.
During 2007 LID-88 and TOC-882 from Taw Oo moved into the village tract to provide security for the road construction.
13 SPDC camps in the village tract located at: 1) Sho Kyo; 2) Hswen Kyo; 3) Ta Ler Kher Kho; 4) Kay Pu; 5) Moo Ra Daw; 6) Hgaw Daw Khi; 7) Htee Hto; 8) Shei Daw Kho; 9) Kyo Kho; 10) Thoo Kyo; 11) Ka Maw Kyo; 12) Hsar Law Kyo; and 13) Moe Lay Kho.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 528
CIDKP ERA Impact Report
Market Information:
36,000 kyat/person distributed. Rice available in: Ta Hgaw Hta (Lu Thaw Township) and Mu They, Htee Hgo, Ka Par Hta (Mone Township). Purchased required contacts and had to be done in secret. From Kay Pu area to Ta Hgaw Hta, Mu Theh, Htee Hgo, and Ka Par Hta areas is a 1-2 day walk and Maw Chi and 2-3 day walk.
Security Information:
26 October 2007 SPDC troops [not specified] from Ta Ler Ker Kho entered the Ta Yu Plaw area and opened fire. Naw [Name Redacted] (46) and Saw [Name Redacted] (46) from Thay Thoo Khi wounded. Troops captured Naw [Name Redacted] (45) and Naw [Name Redacted] (13) later that day. No one has heard of or seen them since.
27 October These troops divided into 2 columns at Htee Baw Day Nar Kar Kyo and later fired heavy weapons into Naw Yo Hta and Hta La Kho village areas. 6 mortars landed and five people were wounded: 1) Naw [Name Redacted] (44) and 2) Saw [Name Redacted] (25) from Htee Baw Day; 3) Naw [Name Redacted] (13); 4) Naw [Name Redacted] (18) from Naw Yo Hta; and 5) Saw [Name Redacted] (60) from Hta La Kho. 4 water buffaloes injured as well.
25 December Troops [not specified] entered into Thaw Htu Khi area and burned down 7 paddy farms. 7 villages in the area abandoned due to road construction and increased patrols.
No. Village Housholds Total 1 Ta May Khi 17 118 2 Kay Pu 62 470 3 Kaw Ter Der 17 100 4 Leh Khi 46 314 5 Ta Keh Der 16 100 6 Baw Lay Der 46 313 7 Si Day 22 158 226 1,573
Livelihoods:
Following 2007 harvest people found hiding places and divided their paddy (2-3 caches typically). KNLA helped villagers transport paddy from abandoned villages and during harvest time.
Due to road construction and patrols, people abandoned 167 lowland fields and 165 upland fields.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 529
Report Number KORD-2008-04
Date Submitted: 4 March 2008
Location: West of the Yunzalin River that borders Kler Lwi Htu District
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Saw Mu Plaw Ler Mu Plaw Na Yo Hta
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 9 318 2,525
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-1 Light Infantry Division LID-88 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-103, LIB-505 Infantry Battalions IB-83 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-103, LIB-505 Infantry Battalions IB-83 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 530
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-323, LIB-568 Infantry Battalions Other
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 531
KORD-2008-04 ERA Request Summary 4 March 2008
Demographics:
2,525 people (318 households) from 9 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Saw Mu Plaw, Ler Mu Plaw, and Na Yo Hta Village Tracts, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District).
Black area: Villagers flee whenever troops approach.
Hillside paddy farms with some irrigated lowland ones.
SPDC waging major offensive in area since early 2006.
Rationale:
Troops using Kyaukgyi-Hsaw Hti Road to supply frontline positions in the area, especially in the dry season. Patrols along road and to clear out population close to it. Construction of new road from Ler Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khee in the northern Hpapun area means that villages are constantly on the run to avoid patrols.
26 October 2007 IB-83 and LIB-103 (under LID-88) and LIB-505 (under MOC-1) began patrols. They remain ongoing as of ERA request date. Some shelling and random shooting into suspect IDP hiding areas accompanies patrols.
26 October IB-83 and LIB-103 enter Ler Mu Plaw area and fired mortars into suspected hiding areas.
28 October LIB-505 enters Saw Mu Plaw area and also fired shells and guns into suspected hiding areas to frighten villagers. Troops either stepped on or uproot paddy plants. Patrols continued through harvest. Villagers too scared to return to care for plants and the entire paddy harvest was lost.
25 December troops [not specified] fired 6 mortars into Thet Khee and Thet Hsa Khee villages. One village killed. Troops then went through area and burnt all of the remaining paddy barns and temporary houses.
15 January 2008 Similar patrols begin and continue through ERA request date. Documented losses: 290 hillside paddy farms, seeded with 3,190 baskets, capable of producing 22,300 baskets of paddy; 19 irrigated paddy farms, seeded with 95 baskets, which could provide 2,000 baskets. 70 barns containing 2,380 baskets of paddy burnt.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 532
ERA Request 4 March 2008
Location:
3 village tracts (Saw Mu Plaw, Ler Mu Plaw, and Na Yo Hta), located west of the Yunzalin River that borders Kler Lwi Htu District.
Highland area, “regarded as the free fire areas by the SPDC.”
Period:
26 October 2007 – 26 December 2007 15 January 2008 – ongoing through ERA request date
Military Units Identified:
LID-88 IB-83, led by BC Kyaw Thu Ra LIB-103, led by Lt. Col. Aung Naing Oo MOC-1 LIB-505, led by Lt. Col. Aung Myo
Background:
Since 1997-1998 offensives villagers displaced on regular basis. “Never has stable place to stay up to now.” Frequently forced to disperse in multiple directions, so they have not been able to “gather themselves in this hiding condition.” [Typically, groups of 4-5 houses only, not a full village to reduce risks, approximately 2-hour walk to nearest SPDC outposts.] Some went to deep jungle, others to other villages, and still others to border.
2003-2004 people began to resume cultivation, including areas not too distant from the road and SPDC outposts. Perceived to be due to verbal ceasefire agreement.
2006 Offensive begins and connected with Ler Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khee road construction.
August 2006 Villagers received ERA.
26 October IB-83 and LIB-103 (under LID-88) left Ta Ler Kho Camp and LIB-505 (MOC-1) left Wa Klay Tu Camp to carry out a joint operation west of the Yunzalin River area.
26 October IB-83 and LIB-103 troops [from above camp] patrolled the following areas: Baw Khee, Ler Mu Plaw, Htee Baw Day, and Pa Kho. They focused on paddy fields and fired mortars in suspected hiding sites.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 533
28 October LIB-505 troops [from above camp] patrolled the following areas: Htee Kaw Kheh Khee, Hser Hti, Pwa Ka Taw, Theh Khee, and Thet Hsa Khee. They took high positions to identify likely IDP hiding areas and fired mortars into them fled. Troops entered paddy cultivation sites and continued to fire guns and mortars to keep them running away. They then destroyed the plants (stepped on, uprooted, rolled rocks/logs over them, etc.). Soldiers took temporary positions around the fields and carried out nearby patrols to prevent villagers from returning to collect some of the harvest. Troop presence (2 months) prevented them from returning and the harvest completely lost.
25 December SPDC troops [not specified] patrolled Thet Khee and Thet Hsa Khee, then fired 6 mortars, killing one person. They found paddy stored in the area and destroyed it, burned the paddy farms, and temporary shelters.
26 December the above troops returned to camps. While en route they found and destroyed IDPs hiding places and caches used by villagers from Htee Khi Khee, Hser Hti, Thet Khee, Htee Baw Day, and Ka Baw Khee.
2007 security and patrols increase during dry season to resupply frontline positions. Villages have to flee on a regular basis due to continuous troop movements. Many hide in areas called Kaw Ro Baw Hta and Pwa Ka Ta—deeply forested and 2-hour walk from SPDC outposts.
15 January 2008 Patrols resume and continue through report date. IDPs not able to bring supplies; however, many of them cultivate 2 or more sites due to military operations, so some emergency supplies exist.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Saw Mu Plaw Pwa Ka Taw 37 252 2 Saw Mu Plaw Thet Khee 25 204 3 Saw Mu Plaw Thet Hsa Khee 34 260 4 Ler Mu Plaw Htee Kheh Khee 21 191 5 Ler Mu Plaw Hser Hti 19 153 6 Ler Mu Plaw Kaw Baw Khee 22 179 7 Ler Mu Plaw Ler Mu Plaw 51 451 8 Na Yo Hta Pa Kho 49 389 9 Na Yo Hta Htee Baw Day 60 446 10 318 2,525
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 534
ERA Distribution Report 6 June 2008
Logistics:
Included training for porters re: how to handle during flight and to avoid loss in the event of an emergency.
Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta Road crossing very dangerous, close to Ghaw Kyo outpost. Large number of landmines laid by SPDC and KNU (notified by security guards), and locations commonly used for ambushes.
21-23 April team heard regular mortar fire targeting paddy fields, work places, and hiding places.
Military Units Identified:
IB-83, led by BC Kyaw Thu Ra (under LID-88 control)
LIB-103, led by Lt. Col. Aung Naing Oo and LIB-505, led by Lt. Col. Aung Naing Myo (under MOC-1 control).
Market:
Villagers can buy rice and other commodities at Mu Thet and Ta Gaw Hta markets, a 2-day walk. Rice 9,000 kyat/tin at these markets, but local prices where ERA distributed are at 12,000 kyat/tin due to transportation costs (porters to bring it in) and security risks.
Village Interviews:
Monitor conducted 4 [referenced in the report]. One, quoted here, named Saw [Name Redacted] (age 34) from Pa Kho Village.
7 May 1997 when SPDC first established camps people in Ler Mu Plaw Village Tract had to abandon 54 irrigated paddy farms and people in Saw Mu Plaw Village Tract 150 irrigated farms (1,000 acres total).
2007 Villagers had to flee the area 5 times.
Troops entered the village area 2 times. First time: burnt 7 paddy barns (holding 80 baskets of paddy); second time: burnt 4 paddy barns and ate/destroyed whatever rice they found.
Mortar fire routine and one person [not named] killed.
November 2007 Saw [Name Redacted] (age 22) and Saw [Name Redacted] died after stepping on landmines. Troop also laid mines in Ta Are Na Khee and Thaw Tu Khee regions.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 535
Forced to cultivate areas with poor soil, about 1.5 hours from Hso Kyo and Ler Mu Plaw Camps.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 536
ERA Impact Assessment 20 May 2008
Background:
KORD district and township authorities collected information on the ERA distribution 2 months after the trip (April-May 2008).
Market Impact:
None. Beneficiaries prioritized rice purchases. Inflation for all goods due to Cyclone Nargis.
Security Impact:
MOC-16 (LIB-568 and LIB-323) left camps at Saw Mu Plaw, Wa Klay Tu, and Pah Gaw Loe, and began patrols in areas that had received ERA. Troops entered Thet Khee and Thet Hsa Khee and “cleaned up the area, such as Bi Kho Der and Kaw Say Der Hiding Sites.”
15 May 2008 These battalions camped near Htee Tar Hta Village (not assisted) and, the next morning, shot and killed a man, Saw [Name Redacted] (age 37) at around 7 am. The troops then entered the village, destroyed houses, and looted property. Residents fled, but some, who had just bought paddy or rice, could not carry it with them.
KNLA troops, that inspected the village after the battalions withdrew, found 2 M-14 mines.
SPDC Troops continued to patrol the area—with the long-term goal being to build a car road from Thet Hsa Khee – Kay Pu.
Livelihood Impact:
Short-term benefits: villages able to secure a 3 month supply of rice and have more time to weed their fields for the next harvest. No other income-generating opportunities available in the area.
No residents departed the area. However, some people from nearby ones began to cultivate some of the land. Successive displacements have narrowed the amount of land available for villagers to cultivate, reducing the soil quality further.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 537
Report Number KORD-2008-06
Date Submitted: 4 March 2008
Location: West of Yunzalin River, north of Kyuakgyi – Saw Hta Road
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Saw Mu Plaw Phla Kho
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 10 427 3,358
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-114, LIB-504, LIB-506 Infantry Battalions IB-17 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-16 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-144, LIB-241, LIB-323, LIB-504, LIB-506, LIB- 522 Infantry Battalions IB-17, IB-68 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 538
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 539
KORD-2008-06 ERA Request Summary 4 March 2008
Demographics:
3,358 people (427 households) from 10 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Saw Mu Plaw and Phla Kho Village Tracts, Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District).
Black area. Villagers flee into the nearest forest whenever troops approach.
Rationale:
Dry season patrols to provide security for trucks resupplying frontline positions. Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta road is the primary transportation route. Construction of Ler Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khee road in northern Hpapun.
26 October 2007 IB-17 and LIB-114, LIB-504, LIB-506 (MOC-16) divided into 2 patrols. One traveled along the mountain ridges and fired 3-4 mortars into suspected hiding areas every day. The other located and destroyed food sources (fields, barns, caches, etc.). Troops also randomly fired guns into possible hiding areas. Both types of patrols ongoing as of ERA request [February].
28 November LIB-144 and IB-17 combined and established new outposts in the Phaw Da Kho area, while LIB-504 and LIB-506 patrolled 2 different areas in Baw Hswe Kyo.
During patrols, troops found and destroyed caches, paddy barns, and plants in the field. Landmines laid, most often in the fields. Patrols ended in January 2008. Troops withdrew.
KORD documented the loss of: 335 paddy fields, 2,050 baskets of paddy, 1,500 baskets of rice, 50 viss of chicken, 20 pigs, 15 goats, 5 buffaloes, and 1,010 ducks. Some villagers fled to the east of the Yunzalin River, while some are going west.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 540
ERA Request 20 February 2008
Location:
Villages: Htee Moo Khee, Htee Baw Khee, Kya Gaw Lu, Ta Baw Ko Der, No Khay Hta, Tae Boe Hta, Phla Kho Do, Paw Mu Der, So Mo Lay Der, and Saw Ker Der. West of the Yunzalin River, north of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta road in Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw District.
Period:
26 October 2007 - 26 January 2008
Military Units:
MOC-16 LIB-114 IB-17 LIB-504 LIB-506
Background:
Highland area that SPDC regards as a “free-fire zone.” Since 1997 residents regularly displaced and former villages scattered. People lack access to land and security. Situation improved somewhat during 2003 and 2004; attributed to verbal ceasefire. Since early 2006 large-scale operations have been continuous.
Military Operations:
26 October 2007 troops launch offensive.
30 October combined battalions enter the area west of the Yunzalin River and north of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road. Patrols coincided with the harvest. Troops divided: one traveling along the mountain ridges, the other the paddy fields. Troops on ridges fired mortar shells into suspected hiding areas 3-4 times per day.
28 November troops established outposts at Phaw Day Kho and Baw Hswe Wee Kyo. LIB-114 and IB-17 in the former and LIB-504 and LIB-506 in the latter.
30 November LIB-114 and IB-17 left their outpost and patrolled the following areas: Htee Moo Khee, Htee Baw Khee, Hsa Gaw Lu, and Ta Ba Ko Der.
1 December LIB-504 and LIB-506 departed their outpost and patrolled Tae Bo Hta, Phla Kho Do, Paw Mu Der, So Mo Lay Der, and Saw Ker Deer.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 541
26 January 2008 The search-and-destroy patrols returned to their camps and new outposts to rest. District KORD-in charge coordinated with his township counterparts to do a need assessment while SPDC troops were resting. Total losses – see ERA summary.
Reasons-KORD speculates: 1) security for supplies along existing road; 2) clear area for new road construction; and 3) “To clear the places in the area that they belief they can take absolute power over the area.”
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Baw Khee 45 348 2 Saw Mu Plaw Htee Moo Khee 41 344 3 Saw Mu Plaw Ta Baw Ko Der 46 378 4 Saw Mu Plaw No Khay Hta 36 229 5 Saw Mu Plaw Hsa Gaw Lu 70 496 6 Phla Kho Saw Ker Der 39 332 7 Phla Kho So Mo Lay Der 31 265 8 Phla Kho Phla Kho Do 27 265 9 Phla Kho Paw Mu Der 57 424 10 Phla Kho Tae Bo Hta 35 277 10 427 3,358
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 542
ERA Distribution Summary 20 May 2008
Demographics:
Distributed as per request. Breakdown of beneficiaries by age/sex not included.
Livelihoods:
Black area. Villagers try to avoid all contact with SPDC troops. Mountainous terrain with some irrigated paddy. Villagers experienced serial displacement since 1997 offensive. Livelihoods deteriorated further when road construction (Ler Mu Plaw – Bu Hsa Khee began) in early 2007. KNU and SPDC landmines in area.
Military Operations:
Early March 2008 SPDC established another camp at Htee Mu Khee Village, Lu Thaw Township. Patrols increased as a result. 1,700 villagers (210 households) from 8 villages: 1) Htee Mu Khee, 2) Htee Baw Khee, 3) Saw Ker Der, 4) Saw Gaw Lu, 5) Plah Kho, 6) Dar Baw Kaw Der, 7) Noh Kay Hta, 8) Htee Baw Hta] fled and headed to: Hsaw Khaw Dae, Ko Mu Lay Der, and Htee Bo Hta regions. 127 hillside cultivation fields and 95 lowland sites abandoned.
21-22 April SPDC troops based at Htee Mu Khee camp fired one mortar into The Bo Plaw area. Fighting between KNLA and SPDC broke out near the camp. SPDC laid many landmines in the area. Training for porters on what to do in event of fighting. Road crossing (Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Hta) near the Ho Kyo outpost and the road crossing near the Kaw Thway Kho outpost very risky. Due to number of landmines, everyone told to stay on the path. If fighting breaks out instructed to run along the path, not into the forest. KNLA also set landmines to prevent SPDC from attacking at these crossing points.
Military Situation Update:
MOC-16 LIB-144 IB-17 LIB-504 LIB-506 LIB-522
MOC-16, led by Brig. Gen. That Oo, based in Paw Hay Kho
Military Tactical Commander, Col. San Linn, based at Wa Klay Tu.
LIB-241, led by 2nd Col. Zaw Lwin, based at Paw Hay Kho, Maw Law LIB-323, led by 2nd Col. Aung Kyaw Moe, based at Bwa Gaw, Maw Law, Thay Wah Kyo, and Ka Hser Ta Kwee
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 543
LIB-507, led by 2nd Col. Han Thu, based at Plah Kho, Kaw Thway, and Khu Kho
IB-68, led by 2nd Col. Hla Moe, based in Htee Mu Khee, The Law Kho, and Paw Hay Kho.
Early March 2008 SPDC established another camp at Htee Mu Khee Village, Lu Thaw Township. Patrols increased as a result. 1,700 villagers (210 households) from 8 villages: 1) Htee Mu Khee, 2) Htee Baw Khee, 3) Saw Ker Der, 4) Saw Gaw Lu, 5) Plah Kho, 6) Dar Baw Kaw Der, 7) Noh Kay Hta, 8) Htee Baw Hta] fled and headed to: Hsaw Khaw Dae, Ko Mu Lay Der, and Htee Bo Hta regions. 127 hillside cultivation fields and 95 lowland sites abandoned. SPDC troops fire mortar shells 1 or 2 times per day into cultivation and hiding areas near the following camps: Ko Kho, Plah Kho, Kyaw Gaw Lu, and Htaw Mu Pla Mae. Most of the IDPs in little “camps” consisting of 10-15 shelters. KNLA located some of the landmines closest to cultivation areas and paths and removed them. However, most villagers too afraid to come out of their hiding places.
Livelihood Update:
Villagers from Plah Kho and Saw Mu Plaw are IDP villagers and rarely encounter SPDC troops. Between August 2007 through the end of the year patrols continuous, so villagers were not able to harvest their crop.
October-January 2008 troops in Plah Kho and Saw Mu Plaw Village Tracts conduct ongoing patrols and fire mortars into working places, stopping the harvest. “On this operation the SPDC mainly targeted to the villagers’ livelihoods.” Villagers abandoned 127 new slash and burn fileds as well as some lowland irrigated fields. People who kept paddy barns and food caches near new outposts did not dare to return with KNLA providing security. New fields very poor soil nutrition, so one tin of paddy will only produce 5-10 baskets of paddy.
Nearest market from Plah Kho Doh Village is a two-day walk to a Ta Gaw Hta: 9,000 kyat/tin. For people who are too weak to carry the paddy or can’t otherwise go, other villagers charge 3,000 kyat/viss of extra weight (6,000 kyat/20 viss, etc.). So one tin of rice costs 12,000 kyat, and it may increase in the future depending on troop movements and KNLA intelligence on them.
Some small-scale animal husbandry (pig, goats, chicken) in each village, but difficult due to patrols. Other crops include sugar cane, banana, as well as vegetables (pumpkin, mustard, radish, taro, yam, chili, and tobacco), but largely for own consumption, not sale.
IDPs used funds to buy rice almost exclusively and to pay back their debts. The money/food enabled them to spend more time cultivating new crops and improved/strengthen trust with local authorities.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 544
Report Number KORD-2008-11
Date Submitted: 4 July 2008
Location: West of Yunzalin River, north Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Khay Pu Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 10 254 2,135
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command MOC-4 Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-707, LIB-708, LIB-709, LIB-710 Infantry Battalions Other TOC-2
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-507, LIB-701, LIB-704, LIB-706, LIB-708 Infantry Battalions Other TOC-1
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 545
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 546
KORD-2008-11 ERA Request Summary 4 July 2008
Demographics:
2,135 people (254 households) from 10 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Khay Pu Der Village Tract, Luthaw Township, Mu Traw District).
Location: west of Yunzalin River, adjacent to the newly constructed Pwa Gaw – Bu Hsa Khee Road, and north of the Saw Hta – Kyaukgyi Road. Hiding area. Villagers flee whenever troops approach.
Rationale:
March-May 2008 Patrols by 4 battalions under TOC-2 of MOC-4 caused villagers to flee from their villages to their nearby jungle of Thay Maw Ku, Lee Khee, and Beh Thaw Law. Patrols in the area have intensified since the Pwa Gaw – Bu Hsa Khee Road cut and new SPDC outposts, which now need rations, have been established.
First week of March LIB-708 and LIB-710 burnt one of the villages targeted for ERA assistance and patrolled the surrounding area. KORD reports that villagers in hiding areas frequently subjected to heavy artillery attacks from patrols since then.
April LIB-709 displaced 4 of the targeted villages. Patrols continued for 2 weeks. Another 2 villages fled from LIB-707 patrols, which also lasted 2 weeks—from end of April to the beginning of May.
KORD, in consultation with village headman and affected villagers, estimated total losses: 135 upland paddy fields burnt, 117 plots abandoned for this year due to patrols. 24 houses burnt and 150 rice barns also destroyed, resulting in the loss of over 6,000 baskets of paddy.
Comments:
The details are corroborated by KORD, CIDKP, FBR, and KHRG reports as a conflict “hot spot” during 2007.
KORD did not document the details of the heavy artillery attacks referred to in the request, but CIDKP situation update (10 March 2008) specifically referred to these attacks, claiming that the attacks displaced more than 1,500 people along on 6 March.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 547
KORD ERA Request Needs assessment (22 April – 15 May 2008)
Background:
Under complete KNU control until 1997-1997 offensive. People remained in hiding until 2003- 2004 when SPDC patrols diminished or withdrew. 2006 offensive forced migrations resumed.
Highland area with upland paddy, some lowland irrigated, and small-scale animal husbandry: goats, pigs, chickens, for household use. No large business due to location and fighting. Some people backpack goods to others in order to buy/sell. Due to long-running patrols, people not able to cultivate fields, undermining human security.
Military Operations:
MOC-4 TOC-2, led by Aye Lwin, based in Khay Pu Village LIB-707, led by Htein Linn, patrols following areas: Ta Kheh Der, Kaw Hter Der, and Tha May Khee. LIB-708, led by Khin Maung Oo, based in Ka Maw Kya, and patrols: Si Day, Kleh Mu, and Baw Lay Der areas. LIB-709, led by Ko Ko Lwin, patrols: Htee Hsi Khee, Htee Bway Khee, Bo Na Der, Ta May Khee, and Taw Kho Mu Der. LIB-710, led by Minn Thet Oo, based in Khaw Daw Kho, patrols: Leh Khee and Kleh Mu areas.
4 March 2008 LIB-710 and LIB-708 combined their troops, entered Geh Yu Der Village and burnt it down. They patrolled the surrounding area for more than one week.
10 April LIB-709 departed Ta Ler Ker Kho Camp and patrolled the following areas: Bo Na Der, Taw Kho Mu Der, Htee Hsi Khee, and Htee Bway Khee Villages. Patrols lasted more than 2 weeks; troops then returned to the camp.
25 April LIB-707 began patrols in the Ta Kheh Der and Kaw Hter Der Village areas. The patrols lasted for 2 weeks.
9 May LIB-707 moved on to Si Day, Baw Lay Der villagers and patrolled for another 10 days.
Some of the people from these villages have been in hiding since 2007. Others fled in response to these patrols, but did not have time to bring supplies.
Patrols coincided with drying field season (in preparation for burning and then planting). Troops burned the fields and barns. Looted and destroyed paddy and rice. Household items and domestic animals stolen and killed, respectively. Due to Pwa Gaw – Bu Hsa Khee Road construction, patrols are frequent to provide security for work and for trucks transporting rations to frontline positions.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 548
IDPs staying in Thay Ma Ku Forest from Htee Bway Khee, Htee Hsi Khee, Taw Kho Mu Der, Bo Na Der, and Ta May Khee Villages; IDPs in Leh Khee Forest and Beh Thaw Law area from Si Day, Baw Lay Der, Ta Kheh Der, and Kaw Hter Der.
Troops laid landmines to block communication routes, making it riskier to travel. Troops regularly fire mortars into suspected hiding places.
A Bo Na Der villager, Naw [Name Redacted], “Only we have to run and run. We have nothing left. We cannot send our children to school. We are sick but do not have medicines. We cannot store our food supplies, and we do not have anything left to sell. The only thing we have is difficulty, so sometimes I think of to die is better than to alive.”
IDPs reliant on working in someone else’s fields, borrowing food from others, and modest local KNU support. They are living in a life of “eating in the morning and worrying for the evening.”
Sometimes KNU patrols find some remaining paddy barns [caches] in the bushes and then arrange for security so that villagers can recover their food stores and the share it with others.
Estimated losses based on assessment: 135 drying hillside paddy fields (large enough to be seeded with 1,080 baskets of paddy), 117 hillside paddy fields abandoned, 24 houses burnt, 150 barns with an estimated 6,000 baskets paddy burnt, and 80 baskets of pounded rice seized / destroyed by troops.
Patrols and growing number of outposts / positions are narrowing down the amount of land available to cultivate. Currently, most of the available land has poor soil quality, which further reduces yields and thus food security.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 549
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households F>10 M>10 F<10 M<10 Total 1 Khay Pu Baw Lay Der 45 123 147 53 49 372 2 Khay Pu Geh Yu Der 24 81 62 21 13 177 3 Khay Pu Ta Kheh Der 15 63 58 23 15 159 4 Khay Pu Kaw Hter Der 26 81 81 19 18 199 5 Khay Pu Taw Kho Mu Der 41 131 121 38 32 322 6 Khay Pu Tha May Khee 20 56 56 35 24 171 7 Khay Pu Htee Hsi Khee 17 62 73 34 12 181 8 Khay Pu Htee Bway Khee 20 60 56 31 28 175 9 Khay Pu Bo Na Der 23 73 90 23 12 198 10 Khay Pu Si Day 23 70 75 9 27 181 254 800 819 286 230 2,135
IDPs current in hiding sites in Thay Maw Ku Htaw Forest, Leh Khee Forest, and the Beh Thaw Law area.
Personal food stores almost exhausted. Rely upon neighbors and local KNU [as above], but these supplies will be done within 1-2 months.
People can purchase rice at Ta Khaw Hta market on their own. Some can also go to Ma La Daw and Mu Thae in Mon Township area, but cannot do so directly. They are dependent on KNU arranging meeting places between lowland traders and IDPs.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 550
ERA Distribution Report 2 September 2008
Demographics:
Provided as per original request: 516 children under 10 (286 girls and 230 boys) as well as 800 females and 819 males over 10 years of age.
Logistics:
23 July – 19 August 2008 (32 days).
Situation Update:
Between 2006-2008 “villagers have been shot and killed [number not specified] and some have been died by stepped on landmines and more than 50 people got injured,” said one local authority that did not want to give his name.
No human rights violations reported during ERA distribution. But Saw [Name Redacted] stated, “The SPDC troop often launched the mortar shells into our village and everywhere to our working sites as a result we were scaring of SPDC when we have working in the hillside cultivation because it was very close to their camps.”
Due to road construction, outposts, and patrols paddy fields close to the road have been abandoned and since destroyed by weather and animals.
Military Units Identified:
TOC-1 Command, based in Kay Pu camp LIB-507, based in Ler Mu Plaw camp LIB-701, based in Bo Na Der camp LIB-704, based in Htee Hsi Khee and Taw Ku Mu Der camp LIB-706, based in Ka Ma Kyo LIB-708, based in Khaw Daw Kho and Ta Kheh Der camp
Patrols are due to:
Rebuilding Kyaukgyi – Hsaw Htar road and finishing the Bwa Gaw – Bu Hsa Khee Road, and the construction of a road (Nay Pi Day Highway), which will connect Bwa Gaw to Hpapun Town.
Persuade highland villagers in Mu Thet, Pha Gaw, Law Mu Plaw, Kay Pu, Bu Hsa Khee, etc. to relocate into lowland areas and towns that SPDC control.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 551
To build modern towns to further cut off recruitment, communication, food, and money to the KNU.
“The local authorities said ‘because of this strategy’ the villagers will be facing with human rights violations such as burning, killing, and torturing and other kinds of abuses in very near future.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 552
Report Number KORD-2008-12
Date Submitted: 14 July 2008
Location: East of Yunzalin River, north-west of Kho Lo Klo River.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Tay Mu Der
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 3 254 1,302
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Southern Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-240, LIB-567 Infantry Battalions Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-567 Infantry Battalions IB-68, IB-240 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 553
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 554
KORD-2008-12 ERA Request Summary 14 July 2008
Demographics:
1,302 people (254 households) from 3 villages (That Kot To Baw, Tha Dah Der, and Tay Mu Der) in the northern part of Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Tay Mu Der Village Tract, Lu Thaw Township, Hpapun District).
Affected villages south of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road, near the KNLA’s 5th Brigade Headquarters [east of the Yunzalin River and north-west of Kho Lo Klo River].
Rationale:
4 June 2008 LIB-240 and LIB-567, from Southern Command HQ, fired mortars and opened fire guns into settlements and laid landmines in and around the 3 affected villages. Tay Mu Der Village was the primary focus according to the report.
Total losses reported: 50 houses destroyed, 70 hillside farms damaged, 90 paddy barns (with an estimated 6,380 baskets of paddy) damaged, and 1.4 million kyat abandoned when villagers fled.
10 June SPDC and KNLA firefight occurred.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 555
ERA Request
Situation Analysis:
What is the political/social/economic background of the area?
“People are shot on sight as the area is regarded as the black area by the SPDC and also known as a free-fire zone. Whenever the SPDC come in, people have to run away to be escaped from torture or killing.”
During the 1997 Scorched Earth campaigns, road construction (Kaukgyi – Saw Hta) bisected many of their cultivation sites, which passed through villagers to move farther south, reducing the amount of arable land available.
During 2002-2003 ceasefire talks between the SPDC and the KNU gave the villagers greater “confidence” to cultivate plots near the road.
During the 2006 offensive, people fled again.
Topography:
Remote highland area. People are largely dependent on (shifting) paddy cultivation. Some people have access to lowland irrigated fields and/or work as traders. Betel nut and leaf gardens provide some people with cash income.
Recent Causes of Vulnerability:
3 June LIB-240 and LIB-567 (under Southern Command) departed Maw Tha Soe and entered the area near Thay Mu Der Village. Troops fired mortars and guns into the area, and villagers left, unable to carry anything with them. Many family members were separated from one another. Heavy rain and possible SPDC patrols made it impossible to light small fires to stay warm.
4 June These battalions entered the village and killed/ate many animals (pigs, chickens, ducks, and goats). The troops also destroyed everything they found in the houses (pots, plates, spoons, baskets, and dumped paddy/rice on the ground.) They also destroyed the walls / roofs of all the homes, and then laid landmines. The troops then travelled to the “work sites” used by That Kot To Baw, Tha Dah Der, and Tay Mu Der villages. Troops found and destroyed food caches, destroyed the barns and huts, etc., as well as the infrastructure for irrigated fields. The rain destroyed the paddy/rice the troops dumped on the ground.
10 June SPDC troops engaged in a firefight with KNLA soldiers at 6:00 am at a place called Thoo Ko Khee, half-way between Tay Mu Der and Tha Dah Der Villages. SPDC troops continued to fire mortars and guns into the surrounding area after the engagement ended. 11 June The battalions divided themselves into two groups [columns]. LIB-567 carried out patrols in Tay Mu Der and Tha Dah Der work sites, while LIB-240 moved to That Koy Yo Baw.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 556
The troops did not follow the paths, but bush-wacked en route, destroying seedlings and fences en route, as well as all the plots, plates, and paddy/rice found while traveling there and back, laying landmines along the way [duration 1 week].
14 June Both battalions returned to outpost in Maw Tha Soe.
17 June Local KNLA soldiers cleared some of the landmines, enabling some IDPs to return to some of their hiding hunts/barns.
Operations coincided with weeing hillside plots and irrigating lowland ones. “Saw [Name Redacted], a Tha Day Der Villager, said, ‘I don’t know what to do then, all my food supplies and plants had destroyed. It is really difficult for me. If I keep staying here, my and my children will going to hungry for not more than next two months, therefore if I go to the refugee camp, may it will be the best.” Another person, “Saw [Name Redacted], a Yae Mu Plaw Villager who fled and stayed in That Kot To Baw Village, said, ‘When living in our own village, the SPDC came and destroyed our places and food, again here the SPDC came and destroyed, we are only have to face with poverty, so if we suicide ourselves will be the best.”
Total documented losses: 1,400,500 kyat; 1,283 baskets of pounded rice; 14 viss of tobacco; 103 pots; 100 chickens; 98 shirts; 98 machetes; 1,080 baskets of paddy; 90 weeding machetes; 3 gallons of pesticide; 15 single hand saws; 81 plough hoes; 30 flasks; 9 wide plastic sheets; 49 paddy threading mats; 90 plough handles; 90 ducks; 51 goats; 90 paddy barns (with 6,381 baskets of paddy); 9 wall clocks; 39 hoes; 72 pigs; 11 viss of chili; 91 weaving bags; 10 6 volt batteries; 35 basins; 113 spoons; 5 fishing nets; 108 women’s longyis; 11 tins of cooking oil; 145 blankets; 9 viss of sugar; 72 viss of salt; 39 touch lights; 101 men’s longyis; 59 sickles; 4 dozen notebooks; 15 textbooks; 10 packets of chalk; and 7 dozen ball-point pens lost/destroyed. 9 buffaloes stepped on landmines, roofs removed/destroyed on 93 paddy huts and 50 homes. Troops and animals destroyed 300 baskets of paddy seed from 70 hillside fields and “79 pieces of seedling in 450 baskets off paddy seed.
Other:
Other villagers, especially from Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract have relied upon food from the affected area [when their food security is threatened] for years. SPDC patrols no longer make this possible and have reduced the amount of arable land available for cultivation.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 557
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Village Households F>5 M>5 F<5 M<5 Total 1 Tay Mu Der Tay Mu Der 64 216 206 84 60 566 2 Tay Mu Der Tha Dah Der 61 185 211 77 50 523 3 Tay Mu Der That Kot To Baw 25 73 75 22 43 213 254 474 492 183 153 1,302
IDP Current Living Conditions:
IDPs are returning to their former villages, but do not dare to travel to their hiding huts, fearing landmines. They did, however, find some barns intact and with paddy still in them, enough for an estimated 2-month supply maximum.
Some people have been able to borrow rice from contacts in Hpapun Town when local KNLA authorities are able to provide some protection for meeting outside of it.
They are weeding crops that escaped destruction and cultivating seedlings in some irrigated lands.
They are trying to reconstruct their homes in the rain. The area is very cool, blankets destroyed, and cough/cold/fever are widespread.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 558
ERA Distribution Summary 2 September 2008
Demographics:
Assistance provided as per request to 336 children under 10 (183 girls and 153 boys), 474 females and 492 males over 10.
Logistics:
Team departed 1 August and returned 25 August (24 days).
Military Situation Update:
No human rights abuses as time of ERA distribution. SPDC outposts are located a 2-hour walk from where the villagers are currently located. They currently lack an early warning system, which prevents them from bringing anything (including paddy) with them when they flee from patrols. Military Units and Bases:
LIB-567 at Ler Klay Kyo IB-240 at Maw Tha Kyo IB-68 at Kaw Wai Kyo
All three are located close to the ERA distribution site and mainly patrol the Lu Thaw Township area.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 559
Report Number CIKDP-2008-09
Date Submitted: 18 March 2008
Location: South of Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Rd., west of Yunzalin River
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayin Hpapun Hpapun n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. Mu Traw Lu Thaw Pla Kho Ye Mu Plaw
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 6 130 1,107
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 560
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 561
CIDKP-2008-09 ERA Request Summary 18 March 2008
Demographics:
1,107 people (130 households) from 6 villages in Hpapun Township, Karen State (KNU: Pla Kho and Ye Mu Plaw Village Tracts, Mu Traw District, Lu Thaw Township).189 children (88 girls, 101 boys under 5), 459 females and 459 males over 5.
Free fire zone and villagers have to flee whenever patrols enter the area. Located south of the Kyaukgyi – Saw Hta Road and west of the Yunzalin River.
Rationale:
SPDC troops frequently transport rations and ammunition to frontline outposts along the border during the dry season using this road. The road passes through both village tracts. During resupply trips, troops deployed along the road and adjacent areas to protect convey from KNLA attacks. Large numbers of outposts built as well.
24 October 2007 SPDC began patrols (2 weeks duration) into 2 routes and then met at a pre- assigned place. Fired mortars into hiding areas in Ye Mu Plaw Village Tract.
25 October Troops shot and killed a vilager (age 48) from Di Thoo Der.
CIDKP documented the loss of: 60 upland fields (seeded with 1,094 tins of paddy), which could produce 27,350 tins. Abandoned and ruined by pests and weather.
Comments:
Rejected due to insufficient documentation.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 562
Background:
Villagers in village tracts fled the area during the Four Cuts operations. They returned about 3 years later (c. 1978) when the troops largely withdrew.
1997 offensive led to the near total destruction of the villages and fields. Camps established at Pya Gaw, Pla Kho, and Maw Pue in Pla Kho Village Tract. People abandoned homes/fields to move to Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract. SPDC troops did not set up military camps in Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract at this time.
2006 offensive affected Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract. June, troops established new positions at Thay Wah Kyo, So Di Thoo Der village abandoned. People abandoned fields and move to Pa Heh Der Po Kyweh Der, and Baw Loe Der.
Topography:
Yeh Mu Plaw located in Lu Thaw Township, Mu Traw (Hpapun) District. East of Bwe Loe Klo (Yunzalin) River, running from northwest to southeast. Not navigable. Some flat land along the Bwe Loe Klo and its tributaries. Otherwise, highland area.
Livelihoods:
Upland and lowland paddy, cotton, tobacco, groundnuts, vegetables. No wage labor, but people raise animals for food and sale (chicken, pigs, goats, and ducks). People in lowland areas raise some cattle.
Military Operations:
24 October 2007 Troops from Pla Kho entered Ku Day area where Pla Kho Village Tract residents to upland paddy.
25 October Troops from Kaw Thway Kyo entered in areas where people form Pla Kho Po reside.
4 November Troops from Thay Wah Kyo entere Ta Ku Der, Di Thoo Der, Baw Loe Der areas in Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract. They combined with troops from Kwee Naw Kyo and then fired heavy weapons into suspected hiding areas. Operations and mortar fire lasted 2 weeks.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 563
Paddy Losses:
Village Plots Amount Seeded Estimated Yield Thay Baw 24 530 13,250 Pla Khu Po 9 152 3,800 Pla Kho Doh 10 132 3,300 Ku Day 3 40 1,000 Lay Gaw 3 46 1,150 Di Thoo Der 11 194 4,850 Estimate: 27,350
25 October Troops shot and killed Saw [Name Redacted] (age 48) from Di Thoo Der Village.
Positions established at Pya Gaw, Ku Swa Kho, Pla Kho, Kaw Thway Kyo, Maw Pu in Pla Kho Village Tract and Kwee Nay Kho and Thay Wah Kyo in Yeh Mu Plaw Village Tract.
Military transports along road very frequent between November and January 2008.
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Tract Vi1lage Households M>5 F>5 M<5 F<5 Total 1 Pla Kho Thay Baw 24 87 93 18 15 213 2 Pla Kho Plaw Kho Po 18 59 63 15 11 146 3 Pla Kho Ku Day 43 154 168 34 27 383 4 Pla Kho Lay Gaw 13 48 41 10 10 109 5 Pla Kho Pla Kho Der 21 65 54 13 14 146 6 Yeh Mu Plaw Di Thoo Der 11 46 40 11 11 108 130 459 459 101 88 1,107
People in lowland areas can grow paddy in Lu Thaw Township as well as Hpapun Town: 12,000 kyat/tin.
KNLA able to provide some advance warning using walkie-talkie and runners. Some IDPs organize their own patrols and people maintain 2-3 hiding places.
Trips estimated to take 2-3 weeks.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 564
Appendix E Pasaung and Pruso Townships (Bawlahke and Loikaw Districts, Kayah State)
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 565
Report Number KSWDC-2004-01
Date Submitted: 19 January 2004
Location: Pasaung Township
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Bawlake Pasaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Brown
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 22 402 2,131
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division IB-55 Light Infantry Battalions Infantry Battalions Other KNPP
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-337, LIB-429, LIB-530 Infantry Battalions Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 566
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 567
KSWDC-2004-01 ERA Summary 19 January 2004
Demographics:
1,998 people from 17 villages in Pasaung Township (Karenni State) fled to 5 hiding sites in Hpapun and Toungoo. KNPP claims they came from Maw Chi area of Daw Pa Kho Township.
Villages in Maw Chi area ordered to relocate in 1996 to Maw Chi and Pasaung relocation sites. (Relocation sites: Pasaung, Maw Chi, and Nan Kit.) Most refused, formed small groups, and went to hiding areas. KSWDC has provided some relief assistance over the years, most recently 9/2003.
12/2003 Renewed fighting between SPDC and KNPP has caused more displacement. SPDC wants to reconstruct the Maw Chi – Toungoo Road, originally built under the British.
15/12/2003 order signed by the commander of IB-55. “Those who refuse to relocate will be regarded as illegal people or anti-government element and the government will not take any responsibility on them in case of any matter occurrence.” Subsequent order included the original 14 plus 3 more.
Local sources claim that more than 1,000 are now scattered in KNU areas in Karen State and more than 500 in Karenni areas. KNU areas include No. 5 Brigade, where Mala Daw Town is located, and No. 2 Brigade, where Kler La / Baw Ga Li is located.
IDPs could only carry a few weeks worth of food and will face food shortages by the end of February. Current price of rice is 4,000 kyat/tin
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 568
Villages and People Affected
Group No. Village (Original Total Name of Hiding Present Name) Place Area 1 1 Pa Khoe 201 Thaleh Lo Karen State 2 Bheh Kee 3 Kayeh Kee 4 Yu Heh Daw Kho 5 Ka Thoe Kee 2 6 Pa Khoe 387 Law Ke Karen State 7 Ka Waw Jo 3 8 Yeh Daw Kho 436 He Poe Karen State 9 Lweh Lhu 4 10 Kaw Ka Daw Kho 221 Tee Sa Ta Karen State 11 Htee We 12 Nu Thu Hta 5 13 Ka Waw Jo 203 n/a Karen State 14 Beh Khee 15 Pa Khoe 16 Yeh Daw Kho 1,448 6 IDPS scattered in small 550 Karenni groups State 1,998
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 569
ERA Distribution Summary 2 September 2004
Demographics:
Assistance provided to 2,131 people (402 Households) and 22 villages (i.e. 133 people and 5 villages more than expected).
Logistics:
24 March – 22 May (59 days). Aid distributed to 8 different hiding sites (half in Karenni and half in Karen States).
Human rights situation:
Troops frequently force men, women (including pregnant ones and ones with suckling children) to porter heavy loads to frontline areas with only meager food rations for 7 days. Made to march in front as minesweepers and alternate next to soldiers as human shields.
Troop deployments: LIB-429, LIB-530, and LIB-337 based in Bawlake in #2 District. One battalion is posted at Pasaung to “sniff” for landmines. One combat patrol provides road security. If KNPP detected in the area, they launch clearing operations and call regional battalions to provide reinforcements.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 570
ERA Beneficiaries
No. Distribution Current Village / Prior Prior Households Total Date Distribution Point Township Village 1 18/4/04 Ka Leh Tay Hta Karenni Pal Khee 6 27 2 State Hoe Hsar 7 44 No. 5 Region KNU Kee 3 District 2 Hto Do Lay 3 18 Kho 4 Township 1 Gahy Lo 4 22 5 Show Lo 2 9 6 Bwar Do 17 83 7 27/4/04 Ka Yaw So Ka Yaw So 11 51 8 Karenni Koe Ta Ro 44 221 9 28/4/04 Ka Reh Hta Me Hsar Pa 6 27 Doe 10 No. 5 Region Saw Kyar 15 113 Du Doe 11 29/4/04 Kaw Baw 19 103 Deh 12 Pal Ko Kee 14 61 13 30/4/04 Pal Khee 27 164 14 30/4/04 Pal Kee Hto Du Lay 24 129 Karenni Area Ko 15 Lay Law 33 191 Htee 16 2/5/04 Htee Nar Day Pa Choo 21 106 Karenni Area 17 3/5/04 Myar Your Hta Ka Yeh Kee 28 172 Karenni Area 18 Ko Kar 17 73 Daw Ko 19 You Hah 38 178 Daw Ko 20 6/5/04 Day Kaw No. 5 Pa Choo 32 193 region Karen 21 7/5/04 Pa Do Pal Lay Law 17 85 Htee Karenni 22 Pa Do Pal 17 61 402 2,131
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 571
Report Number KSWDC-2004-05
Date Submitted: 21 April 2005
Location: South of Toungoo – Maw Chi Rd. and Hpapun Township
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Bawlake Pasaung n.a. Loikaw Pruso Ke Kaw Ka Pru
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Black area
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 41 788 4123
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-55 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-3, LIB-7, LIB-18, LIB-94, LIB-112, LIB-117, LIB-135, LIB-422, LIB-424, LIB-509, LIB-511, LIB- 512 Infantry Battalions Other KNSO/KNPLF, Tactical Command 1, 2, and 3
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-135, LIB-248 Infantry Battalions IB-119 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 572
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 573
KSWDC-2004-05 (Revised) ERA Summary Request 7 October 2004
Demographics:
4,123 people (788 Households) and 41 villages in Pasaung Township, Karenni State. (KNPP refers to as District No. 2) IDPs: 743 people (Township 1); 1,894 people (Township 2); and 1,486 people (Township 3).
Rationale:
SPDC mopping up operations in collaboration with KnSO and KNPLF in Pasaung Township following the military offensive; troops have successfully restricted access to paddy barns and upland fields.
Situation Report:
12/2003 SPDC infantry battalions under Light Infantry Division #55 launched clearance operations in the Maw Chi region. “The order stated that non-compliant villagers will be branded as illegal and anti-government elements and related consequences will not be tolerated.”
5/2004 Commander of LIB-422, based at Maw Chi, declares area [outside of town] out-of- bounds.
27/5/2004 LIB-135, led by Lt. Col. Maung Maung, together with a cease-fire group [not specified] opened fire on Gay Lo Lower Village. They killed livestock, looted at will, burned granaries and spared others (but planted landmines underneath of them). Mines also laid at the road junction, in the creeks, etc. Due to military operations, large numbers of people left District No. 2 for KNU No. 5 Brigade: 285 households (1,449 people) out of a total of 1,073 households (5,572 people).
Update on SPDC operations (1st week of December 2003 – 1st week of April 2004)
Division No. 55, led by Col. Thet Oo.
Tactical Command Nos. 1, 2, and 3.
Battalions: LB-3, LB-94, LB-7, LIB-511, LIB-512, LIB-509, LIB-18, LIB-112, LIB-117.
1st week of June LIB-428, LIB-530, LIB-134, LIB-135 with reinforcements from LIB-422 and LIB-424 from Shan State in collaboration with KNPLF and KnSO start area-clearing operations.
9/5/2004 LIB-135 Commander Lt. Col. Aung Aung issues order that 7 villages in Township No. 1 must relocated to Baw Lake. “Noncompliance will be termed as KNPP sympathizers and threatened to be severely treated.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 574
24/5/2004: Commander of LIB-422 issues “out-of-bounds” order. n.d. SPDC troops capture to hiding families from Gosakhi Village and relocated them to Maw Chi. LIB-428 forced women to porter (irrespective of whether they were pregnant or nursing infants). Villagers were forced to clear brush from the roadsides as well. n.d. Naw [Name Redacted] (age 18) dies after stepping on a landmine. n.d. Lt. Col. Khin Zaw, commander of LIB-428, forces everyone over 15 years of age to porter supplies after completing “clearing operation” in Gay Lo Lower Village.
18/8/2004 LIB-135 column captures 5 IDPs in hiding from Pho Bu Kho and Kaw Baw Hta. Nothing is known about what happened to them.
28/9/2004 LIB-428 and KNPP troops capture 2 households while exchanging fire with KNPP troops near old Noo Thoo Khee Village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 575
ERA Distribution Report 30 March 2005
Security Situation:
Travel exceedingly difficult due to terrain and ongoing skirmishes. Lack of communication equipment, so they did not know what was happening and sent runners to get information, which raised the risk that they would be killed by friendly fire or step on a mine.
Villages and People Affected
No. Township Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Pasaung n/a Le Khee 33 186 2 Pruso Ke Kaw Shaung Leh 24 146 3 Pruso Ka Pru Raw Do Kaw 49 278 4 Pruso Ka Pru Taw Do Kaw 32 167 5 Pruso Ka Pru Ka Pru 44 267 6 Pruso Ka Pru Du No 35 150 7 Pruso Ka Pru See Mee De 18 92 8 Pruso Ka Pru Tah Thoo Khee 34 168 9 Pruso Ke Kaw Htee Pa Khaw 37 207 10 Pruso Ka Pru Ke Thedo 24 126 11 Pruso Ka Pru Si Ki Khaw 29 142 12 Pruso Ke Kaw Khaw Lay 18 100 13 Pruso Ke Kaw Phaw Law 46 221 14 Pruso Ke Kaw Yu Li Thu 18 154 15 Pruso Ke Kaw Bwe Do Tha 28 165 16 Pruso Ke Kaw Ke Khee 22 124 17 Pruso Ke Kaw Waw No 31 126 18 Pruso Ke Kaw Ke Kaw 27 140 19 Pruso Ke Kaw Do Pho 27 118 20 Pruso Ke Kaw Lah Wa 20 126 21 Pruso Ke Kaw Lo Day 34 172 22 Pruso Ke Kaw Pe Khee 25 134 23 Pruso Ke Kaw Do Mu Khaw 22 113 24 Pruso Ke Kaw Tho Thee Pho 33 162 25 Pruso Ke Kaw Lah Pha Htee 17 80 26 Pruso Ke Kaw Pha Weh 50 238 27 Pruso Ke Kaw Ha Ke Kho 23 129 800 4,231
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 576
Current Situation:
“The SPDC labeled the Maw Chi region a black area, which means that the area is void of law and order, no judicial court has any ruling power, the SPDC ruled the region that of the insurgents’, they frequently launched area-clearing military operation.”
List of Landmine Victims in 2004 in Pasaung Township:
No. Name Age Date Village Gender Remark 1 [Name Redacted] 15 26/4/04 Hto Ka Htoo F Left leg broken 2 [Name Redacted] 30 10/5/04 Hto Do Leko M Died
3 [Name Redacted] 25 5/7/04 Gi Lo M Right leg broken 4 [Name Redacted] 27 12/7/04 Musapado M Right leg broken 5 [Name Redacted] 19 12/7/04 Musapdao F Left leg broken 6 [Name Redacted] 18 24/7/04 Kaw Kha Do Ko M Died 7 [Name Redacted] 23 7/8/04 Ka Tho Khee M Right leg broken 8 [Name Redacted] 40 11/11/04 Thi Po M Left leg broken 9 [Name Redacted] 20 11/11/04 Gi Lo M Left leg broken 10 [Name Redacted] 55 10/12/04 Pa Hi Hta M Left leg broken
Landmines widely used in the vicinity of the following villages: Bwa Do, Hoe Sa Khee, Pha Lo Hti, Ge Lo, Kaw Kha Daw Kho, Mu Sa Pa Do, Pe Kho Khee, Kho Baw Do in Pasaung Township.
Summary Executions Committed While Villages Foraging for Edible Herbs (p. 6)
No. Name Age Date Village Gender Region IB 1 [Name Redacted] 22 29/11/04 Swa Beh M Khe Ma Phyu 428 2 [Name Redacted] 18 29/11/04 Swa Beh M Khe Ma Phyu 428 3 [Name Redacted] 39 29/11/04 Swa Beh M Khe Ma Phyu 428 4 [Name Redacted] 25 20/1/04 Yaw Mu Beh M Khe Ma Phyu 428
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 577
Report Number KSWDC-2005-03
Date Submitted: 21 April 2005
Location: South of Toungoo – Maw Chi Rd, and Hpapun Township
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Bawlake Pasaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 16 392 2,098
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-337, LIB-429, LIB-502, LIB-511 Infantry Battalions IB-54, IB-135 Other KNPP, KNSO, KNPLF
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-135, LIB-248 Infantry Battalions IB-119 Other
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 578
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 579
KSWDC-2005-03 ERA Summary Request 21 April 2005
Demographics:
2,098 people (392 households) from 16 villages in Pasaung Township, Karenni State 414 people (80 households) currently in hiding in Hpapun Township, Karen State. 1,684 people (312 households) currently in hiding south of the Maw Chi – Taungoo Rd.
Terrain:
Located to the south and southeast of Maw Chi (very mountainous). No car roads, rough uneven foot-paths, and hilltop villages made out of bamboo. Some upland cultivation but fighting prevents routine cultivation (troops usually launch operations during harvest). Growing emphasis on cardamom. 1 tin of rice/4,000-5,000 kyat. Landmines are a significant issue and make gathering forest products and hidden caches of rice very dangerous.
Rationale:
Since 2002, when a battalion of KNPP broke away, this area has been subject to ongoing skirmishes and harassment as part of an ongoing struggle between KNPP, KnSO, KNPLF, and SPDC.
June 2004 SPDC commander at Maw Chi ordered the consolidation of previously scattered villages into a designated area, and he threated that people who did not relocate would be considered rebel sympathizers.
Civilians who did not comply with the relocation order lost their food supplies. They have coped either borrowing food or planting cardamom as cash crop to exchange with traders in Pasaung, Maw Chi, or Karen areas.
Military operations
Six SPDC battalions (IB-135, IB-54, LIB-511, LIB-502, LIB-337, and LIB-429) and KNSO/KNPLF troops are conducting search-and-destroy missions in the Maw Chi area.
“The SPDC labeled the region as black area or the area under control of armed resistance groups, which means that they can shoot any resident at will.”
15/5/2004 Commander [not identified] in Maw Chi orders consolidation of villages; anyone who does not comply by deadline date will be “branded as insurgents.”
1/5/2004 Commander in Maw Chi orders that anyone with relatives in the KNPP to leave Pasaung Township. Anyone who sees KNPP troops in the vicinity must submit a report
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 580
immediately. Severe action [not specified] will be taken against anyone providing information or supplies to KNPP [See distribution summary, p. 5].
14/5/2004 SPDC troops [not specified] order Lokhalo villagers to move existing army base there to a new location. Villagers required to porter materials, dig trenches, build fences, to serve as guides and messengers for troops from this point onwards.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 581
Villages and People Affected in the Bawhudo region of southern Pasaung Township
No. Village Households Total Remarks 1 Kawawso 15 97 2 Kotaro 40 238 3 Musapado 12 63 4 Sawkwadude 13 61 5 Khobawde 21 107 6 Pekhokhee 27 145 7 Pekhee 31 149 8 Lelahtee 29 146 9 Pahoe 49 268 10 Yuhedawkho 17 93 11 Kayekhee 37 196 12 Kawkhadawkho 17 93 13 Lekhee 37 197 Taken refuge in Karen State 14 Noothookhee 18 96 Taken refuge in Karen State 15 Padobe 12 62 Take refuge in Karen State 16 Htathuday 13 59 Taken refuge in Karen State 392 2,098
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 582
ERI Distribution and Monitoring Report No Date
Trip Length: 21/5/05 – 19/6/05 Distribution: 8 sites set for 16 villages, typically one at a time except where two close by.
Distribution Data for IDPs in Bawhudo region of southern Pasaung Township.
No. Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M <5 F < 5 M F Total Total Total 1 Kayrkhee 28 72 75 14 9 86 84 170 2 Pekhokhee 15 29 34 1 3 30 37 67 3 Htathuday 15 39 36 12 10 51 46 97 4 Pekhee 31 85 82 7 9 92 91 183 5 Htolaykho 17 31 30 5 3 36 33 69 6 Musapado 17 36 35 9 7 45 42 87 7 Padobe 24 52 41 9 7 72 37 109 8 Kawawso 23 51 49 11 12 62 61 123 9 Sawkwadude 28 56 58 15 7 71 65 136 10 Kawkhadawkho 22 38 42 7 8 45 50 95 11 Lelawhtee 32 62 83 17 15 145 32 177 12 Kotaro 29 57 59 20 15 116 35 151 13 Yuhrdawkho 38 72 66 20 18 138 38 176 14 Pahoe 29 84 81 21 19 105 100 205 15 Khobawde 19 44 53 5 9 49 62 111 16 Lekhee 28 58 19 60 18 77 78 155 395 866 843 233 169 1,099 1,012 2,111
Current Military Operations:
3 regular mobile columns in Maw Chi and 1 full-time mobile unit for the town’s security.
Two columns from LIB-248, led by Major David, with one column from LIB-135 are conducting patrols along with KNPLF and KNSA to the south of Maw Chi.
IB-119, stationed in the Aungmyin camp, on the old Loikaw - Taungoo Road patrol the Kwa Khee Village area near the Karenni-Karen border.
Due to operations in this area, many of the IDPs have moved to Karen areas and some to the Thailand-Burma border.
Pasaung Township listed as “black area” (i.e, a free-fire zone).
IDPs form small groups (2-3 families), which means that if killed, there is no one to report it. [Documenting abuses is, therefore, very difficult.] Because ceasefire group are working with SPDC troops, IDPs are very vulnerable because many of their hiding places are known.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 583
“Suspicions brew among the people, due to the recent order imposed [May 2005] as to accusing one another as relatives of the rebels.” [Due to increase in found landmines during May and June?]
Fears that a new offensive targeting KNU No. 5 Brigade will start if ceasefire talks breakdown. IDPs “blame them that due to their presence military operations will be launched in their region.”
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 584
Report Number KSWDC-2005-07
Date Submitted: 5 October 2005
Location: North of Pasaung – Kler Lah Rd.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Bawlake Pasaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 24 623 3,503
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-337, LIB-429, LIB-502, LIB-511 Infantry Battalions IB-135 Other
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 585
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 586
KSWDC-2005-7 ERA Request Summary 5 October 2005
Demographics:
3,503 people (623 households) from 24 settlements in Pasaung Township. Villages are north of the Pasaung – Kler Lah Road.
Terrain:
Extremely mountainous, densely forested, and almost complete absence of flat land. Poor foot tracks the only way to move through the terrain. Upland cultivation and some cash crops, but landmines make this very difficult.
Houses consist of crude bamboo planks on hilltops due to frequent relocations.
Forested area patrolled by KNPP, SPDC as well as ceasefire groups: KNPLF and KnSO.
Rationale:
6 battalions are deployed in the area: IB-135, LIB-511, LIB-502, LIB-337, and LIB-429.
Armed skirmishes are frequent and most of the population is in hiding.
Area heavily polluted with landmines, which restricts access to upland fields and forest products.
June SPDC launches a “clearing operation” around the Ka Waw Kyoe area in retaliation for a KNPP ambush. Tarps distributed by KSWDC confiscated in one village and surrounding huts destroyed. 1 officer and 5 privates killed. Villagers from Le Law Htee forced to serve as porters.
July SPDC patrol reported killed a civilian during interrogation about KNPP movements. The “SPDC labeled the area ‘Black Area’ or ‘Armed Insurgents Area,’ which means that they can shoot any local resident at whim. No action whatsoever has ever been taken by any SPDC judicial court about the matter.”
7/6/05 In retaliation for the KNPP ambush on the Maw Chi – Pasaung Road, which killed on SPDC officer and 5 privates, the troops launched a “clearing operation.”
8/7/05 Firefight involving KNPP and LIB-337, led by Major Min Naing, left 1 KNPP soldier wounded and many SPDC troops wounded. Troops found Saw Oo Leh in the Ka Ke Khee hiding site, and they beat him to death with a rifle butt.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 587
Affected Villages and IDPS in Maw Chi area as well as those close to Pasaung Township to the south.
No. Village Households Total 1 Noothookhee 18 96 2 Htahtooday 13 59 3 Lekhee 37 184 4 Padope 12 62 5 Ywathedo 16 97 6 Bulabo 24 105 7 Kawthudoe 42 257 8 Plakhee 14 78 9 Swape 24 102 10 Salawlo 19 95 11 Salawkhee 12 74 12 Yemupe 16 89 13 Phobukho 37 224 14 Phalo Htee 25 127 15 Mithupe 17 92 16 Shodaw Kho 35 221 17 Gaylo 38 236 18 Kabwedo 44 260 19 Kawbawtha 22 141 20 Ywatakah 51 308 21 Pathakhee 8 42 22 Kabwephoe 32 183 23 Pahawkho 18 98 24 Namakoo 49 273 623 3,503
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 588
Report Number KSWDC-2006-01
Date Submitted: 29 March 2006
Location: Karenni-Karen State border
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Bawlake Pasaung n.a. Loikaw Pruso
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 8 338 1,878
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-421, LIB-424, LIB-426, LIB-428 Infantry Battalions Other KNSO, KNPLF
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 589
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 590
KSWDC-2006-01 ERA Request 29 March 2006
Demographics:
1,878 people (338 households) from 8 villages spread along the Karenni-Karen State borders. (1 village in Pasaung, 3 villages in Pruso Township, and 4 hiding sites in Karen State.) 310 < 5 years of age and 1,566 > 5 years of age.
The entire area is considered a “black area” in which SPDC forbids civilians to stay. Tough mountainous terrain, dense jungle and almost complete absence of flat land for cultivation.
Rationale:
December 2005 SPDC, KnSO, and KNPLF troops deployed in 4 groups west of Maw Chi resulting in an unknown number of people fleeing the area, for unspecified lengths of time, deep in the jungle. Constant deployments have also spontaneously targeted people who fled to Karen State and are in hiding sites.
46 rice barns destroyed within their village and 16 others found/destroyed in the jungle. An undocumented amount of food abandoned and destroyed, while people are scared to return because of landmines.
2 cases of forced portering affected 15 people documented.
1 village burnt down, though it is not clear where these people fled to and whether they are included in the request.
3 skirmishes with KNPP forces documented.
Military Operations:
2004 SPDC assigns KnSO to serve as “watchdog” for the region. It patrols with SPDC troops looking for the KNPP, as the region serves as the “hub” of its military operations. People constantly on the move as a result.
11/2005 Many adult IDPs return to fields to prepare for next season’s crops despite land mines. Unable to complete due to operations below and destruction of food caches.
10/12/2005 Joint SPDC, KNPLF, KnSO operation (150 troops), led by Major Myo Myint Aung of LIB-424, launched area-clearing operations. Based in Boo Ko. The seized 6 villagers from Sho Daw Kho and made them serve as guides. Pa Ke Me escaped. The fate of the other 5 is unknown. (Four columns from Pasaung, Mawchi, and Pruso).
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 591
12/12/2005 Joint force (120 soldiers), led by Major Myo Myint Aung, with two companies from LIB-421 with one section from KNSO, led by Saw Jeh, began patrols on 1/12/05. Firefight with KNPP on this date at Kye Khee.
2 companies from LIB-428 (150 soldiers), led by Column Commander Win Zaw, left Pasaung and reach Pa Haw Koh on 17/12/2005. They rounded up 9 villagers (men and women) and interrogated them and made them serve as porters for the column.
16/12/2005 Third column, led by Maj. Htun Htun Win, with two companies from LIB-426 (160 troops) and one KNPLF company, led by Company Commander Khee No, commenced patrols in Ho Ya, Kay Kaw, and Phah Poh village areas in Pruso Township—prior to firefight on this date.
18/12/2005 Firefight with KNPP where Upper and Lower Boo Ko River meet.
23/12/2005 Firefight between the column and Karenni Army at Ge Waw Be Village. The joint force burnt down the village.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 592
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Total 1 Htathuday 13 26 20 6 7 59 2 Nuthukee 18 42 38 8 9 97 3 Lehkee 37 65 76 27 16 184 4 Padopal 16 33 26 5 5 69 5 Wewa 95 259 273 31 44 607 6 Hpahpu 47 102 114 21 33 279 7 Htokkahto 74 138 151 31 36 356 8 Gaylo 38 103 102 17 14 236 338 768 800 146 164 1,878
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 593
ERA Distribution Summary 6 September 2006
Logistics:
7 May – 14 July (10 weeks)
Livelihood Issues:
2005 skirmishes led SPDC and KNPLF to order villages to relocate either to Khe Ma Phyu or Maw Chi; many did not comply.
May 2006 – intensive logging by KNPLF armed forces with the Htoo Company in upper reaches for the Htoo River, Pasaung. “The SPDC and the KNPLF jointly released an order, stating that villagers within the logging area report the movement and taxation carried out by KNPP forces immediately to the nearest SPDC camp post. Local residents were barred from hunting and fishing within the logging area and were also threatened of being shot if found breaching the order. Besides, the villagers, who had already finished cutting and burning their hill famers before May beside the Htoo River, were also banned from continuing tilling their farms. In addition, the logging company piled up logs on their farm plots.”
Between the ERA request and ERA distribution, 3 more skirmishes reported near Phapho and Kawtudo Villages. 1 village headman wounded and another beaten. Villagers harassed for alleged contact with KNPP.
No Date: SPDC troops [unspecified] “sprayed gunfire into the crowd, as the villagers together with the KNPP armed force cleared the churchyard in Phapho Village to keep it safe from forest fires.” Village headman wounded left arm.
11 May: Occurred in Kawtudo Village where LIB-11 accused the headman of having KNPP contact and beat him. The troops then forced everyone household head to sign a paper pledging to keep the KNPP forces away.
14 June: no details beyond IDPs fled the area.
The Karenni IDPs now mainly buy their rice, salt, and ngapi [fish paste] in Maw Chi and Pasaung due to SPDC landmines limiting their ability to cross into Karen State (Thandaung and Baw Ga Li) as in the past. SPDC troops sometimes intercept and interrogate them en route. Rice prices in area jumped from 5,000 to 9,000 kyat / tin as a result.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 594
Report Number KSWDC-2006-05
Date Submitted: 12 October 2006
Location: Southwest of Pruso Town, Karen-Karenni Border
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Loikaw Pruso Ho Ya Re A Pra Ge Kaw Dow Lo Hsaw Hko Par
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Mixed Administration (Brown)
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 22 741 4,097
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-102, LIB-426, LIB-427, LIB-428, LIB-531 Infantry Battalions Other KNPLF, KNSO
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division LID-55 Light Infantry Battalions LIB-427 Infantry Battalions Other KPNLF
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 595
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 596
KSWDC-2006-05 ERA Request Summary 12 October 2006
Demographics:
4,097 people (741 households) from 22 villages (Most Kayaw majority) in 5 village tracts in Pruso Township, Karenni State.
Located southwest of Pruso town, towards the Karen-Karenni border. Mixed administration area.
Rationale:
September LIB-426, LIB-427, LIB-428, LIB-531, LIB-102 in combination with KPNLF, KNSO, and Nagar [?] formed 3 columns and patrolled the area. Typically occurs 3-4 times per year.
Villagers in area had to pay taxes, perform forced labor, subject to random interrogation, beatings, portering, travel restrictions, and the loss of food and shelter.
Villagers (2) and several headmen interrogated and beaten for alleged family members in the KNPP.
Total known losses: 1,600 tins of paddy, 50 tins of rice, 600 rupee coins, 11 buffaloes, 12 pigs, and 150 chickens.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 597
ERA request 12 October 2006
Situation Analysis:
LIB-427 and LIB-531 based in Pruso and oversee region’s military operations. 1 company from each Light Infantry Battalion along with troops from ceasefire groups (KNPLF, Gory, and Daymo) establish out-posts around Hoya and Kaykhaw. 1 reinforcement company from LIB-102 set up an outpost in Dopre Village, Dopre Village Tract. Gory’s group, with a force of 20 men, stationed at Reebo camp below Hoya. One KNPLF platoon at Phawlaw camp near Hoya and Kaykhaw Villages.
KNPLF, led by Htoo Kaw, control Kaykaw Village Tract; storehouse for military supplies located there (approximately 30 men).
Pawlu controls Tawkhu Village Tract (approximately 20 men).
Gory and Daymo control Kaykaw, Hoya, and Raepra (approximately 20 men).
Pruso – Khape Road completed. Villagers regularly forced to repair, maintain, and clear brush around it. Military supplies originate in Pruso. Most of the current operations based out of Hoya.
IDPs trajectories: jungle-hiding sites, to Pruso via jungle paths, or other areas outside perimeter of military operations.
Causes of Displacement and Food Shortages:
28/8/2006 Karenni Army No. 1 regiment (80 men), led by Lt. Shay Lor, raided the SPDC camp at Phawlaw. Many SPDC and KNPLF troops reported fled, many wounded. KNPP seized weapons, ammunitions, communication equipment, and 40 sacks of rice.
3/9/2006 Joint forces launch clearing operations in retaliation. 2 columns from Pruso: 1) Dopre and Dawlasaw; and 2) Hoya and then divided into two at Khabe: 2a) Kaykhaw and 2b) Domolosaw, Khothakaw, “which portrayed that 3 SPDC joint columns were deployed into the area.” [3 total out of the original 2?]
Column 1, led by LIB-102 Major Win Myint, stopped at Dopre for 2 nights where 50 people forced to serve as porters were waiting. They transported the military supplies to Wethutaw and Lyahdu villages. 2 days later they moved to Phuhrahkhu, Sokho, Khubra, and Deekule. The column returned to Pruso via Htokhweeso and Dopre villages on 22 September. Villagers met en route forced to porter supplies to the next village. Typically stayed in each village for 2 days, posted front line perimeter patrols, and seized what they wanted, especially food.
30,8/2006 Column 2 left Pruso for Hoya and branched off into 2a and 2b.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 598
3/9/2006 Column 2-a, led by LIB-428 Column Commander Aung Myint Oo, went to the Hoya and Kaykhaw Village Tracts (approximately 200 men total). Operations route: Hoya to Reekheboo to Khabe to Bwedotha (stopped) to Yulikkhu to Kay Khaw (stopped) to Phawlaw to Loday (stopped) to Sawle to Hteewakhaw to Phawe to Sawplekkhu to Dmobwe (stopped) to Kaykhee to Paykhee to Presokhu (stopped), … Search-and-destroy operations carried out along the way.
10/9/2006 [Name Redacted], village head of Presokhu, tied up and badly beaten. He fled to Pruso afterwards. KNPLF commander, one Luisi, and SPDC soldiers accused the village head, [Name Redacted], and secretary, [Name Redacted], as having contact with KNPP and failing to report it. Both bound and beaten. He lost his hearing and she suffered a dislocated wrist.
Second Column 2-b, led by San Win Htun of LIB-426, departed for Hoya and Domoso Village Tracts with 200 men from SPDC, KNPLF, Koori, and Daymo. [Note: route same as above, includes list of food seized, eaten, and destroyed, as above].
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 599
Villages and People Affected
No. Township Village Tract Village Households Total 1 Pruso Ho Ya Hte Hku 52 274 2 Pruso Ho Ya Homo Hti 22 127 3 Pruso Ho Ya Damusaw 39 221 4 Pruso Ho Ya Kaw Thuhkaw 67 368 5 Pruso Ho Ya Ki Lo Pra 32 176 6 Pruso Ho Ya Ple La 35 194 7 Pruso Re A Pra Hkrow Khu 97 543 8 Pruso Re A Pra G-Kya 21 116 9 Pruso Re A Pra Yu So Pra (upper) 27 162 10 Pruso Re A Pra Yu So Pra (lower) 34 204 11 Pruso Re A Pra Ra E Pra 33 184 12 Pruso Ge Kaw Ta Mo Pwe 27 153 13 Pruso Ge Kaw Do Mu Hko 31 175 14 Pruso Ge Kaw Ke Hki 23 126 15 Pruso Ge Kaw Pre Saw Hku 22 113 16 Pruso Ge Kaw Saw Pali Hku 21 109 17 Pruso Ge Kaw Pa Hki 23 112 18 Pruso Dow Lo Hsaw Ko Hso 24 119 19 Pruso Dow Lo Hsaw He So Hku 28 147 20 Pruso Dow Lo Hsaw Sa La Kwar 32 179 21 Pruso Dow Lo Hsaw Dow Lo Hsaw 28 158 22 Pruso Hko Par Hso Khu 23 137 741 4,097
Current price of rice is 7,000 kyat/tin
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 600
ERA Distribution Report 2 July 2007
Situation update:
SPDC and KPNLF troops, based at Re Khee Boo and Sin Phyu Taung camps, continue.
Between May 2006 and May 2007 landmines have killed at least 5 buffalo. Another five, grazing near the camp, shot and killed for food.
Travel restrictions a major issue.
Forced labor major issue.
May 2006, KPNLF troops arbitrarily killed a village chairman and secretary along with one shopkeeper as a reprisal for the death of 3 KNPLF soldiers killed in a firefight with KNPP in the Hoya region.
8/5/2007 Firefight between [Name Redacted] security team and LIB-427 took place near Daw Rauk Khu Ha Li Khu Village. One sergeant in the security team died and Karenni cadet [Name Redacted] captured. He was brutally killed 2 days later. He revealed the ERA route and distribution plans [presumably under torture], which required them to make changes. SPDC troops laid more mines in the area around Ha Likhu, Khu Kyekhu, Maw Thito, Koo Khu, Yo Pra, Yu So Pra, Ra E, and Kho Baw. 20 villagers, afraid that they would be suspected of assisting the relief team [an SPDC agent turned their names in], returned with the team.
Reports of a forthcoming clearing operation under the control of Light Infantry Division #55 for Dow Lo Hsaw and Ra E Pra Village Tracts.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 601
Report Number KSWDC-2007-03
Date Submitted: 27 August 2007
Location: South of Maw Chi but above the road, close to Karen State border.
State-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) Kayah Bawlake Pasaung n.a.
Karen-defined Administrative Units
State/Region District Township Village Tract(s) n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.
Zone: Brown and Black
Population Statistics [Total Numbers Affected]
Villages Households People 14 390 2,157
Military Units Identified [Needs Assessment Report]
Regional Command Military Operations Command Light Infantry Division Light Infantry Battalions LIB-72, LIB-337 Infantry Battalions Other KNPLF, KnSO, KNPP
Military Units Identified [Distribution Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 602
Military Units Identified [Impact Assessment Report – if included]
Regional Command n.a. Military Operations Command n.a. Light Infantry Division n.a. Light Infantry Battalions n.a. Infantry Battalions n.a. Other n.a.
ICC Article 7: Crimes Against Humanity Reported
Murder (Extrajudicial Execution)
Enslavement (Forced Labor)
Deportation (Forced Relocation)
Imprisonment or Severe Deprivation of Physical Liberty
Torture
Rape and ICC-defined Forms of Sexual Violence
Enforced Disappearance of Persons
Other Inhuman Acts Causing Physical and/or Mental Suffering
ICC Article 8: War Crimes Reported
Willful Killing (Attempted and/or Reported)
Torture or Inhuman Treatment
Willing Causing Great Suffering, or Serious Injury to Body or Health
Extensive Destruction and Appropriation of Property
Taking of Hostages
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 603
KSWDC-2007-03 (Revised) ERA Request Summary 27 August 2007
Demographics:
2,157 people (390 households) from 14 villages in Pasaung Township, Karenni State. This includes 137 girls and 136 boys < 5 and 955 females and 929 males > 5.
4 villages south of Maw Chi and 10 north of the road, closer to the Karen State border.
Rationale:
25 August 2007 LIB-72 stationed in Mawchi called village headman for a meeting to reassert earlier orders on travel restrictions outside designated areas, with the threat of shoot-on-sight orders.
July and August 2007 3 villagers wounded by landmines LIB-72 planted. One died en route to Maw Chi hospital.
KNPP troops reportedly found and removed 30 SPDC landmines during these two months.
Rationale (Original):
7/12/2006 LIB-337 shot 4 Hosakhtee villagers when they went back to collect their belongings in Karen State. One died.
28/12/2006 4 Htudolaykho villages stepped on a landmine and lost their legs while walking to purchase food supplies.
1/2007 5 Kawtudo villagers arrested when they went to Maw Chi and their whereabouts remain unknown.
2007 SPDC establishes 3 more outposts along the Maw Chi – Toungoo Car Road to secure the area for 4 bulldozers from Karen to Karenni States and 2 others from Maw Chi. Engineers have been surveying the road and its reconstruction. Increased patrols and checkpoints and hence travel restrictions to farms, forests, and markets as a result.
2007 KNPP troops uprooted more than 30 landmines. KNPP estimates that SPDC/KNPL/KnSO forces planted more than 3,000 mines along the road this year.
Logging projects along the Htoo River and the expansion of mining to the north of Maw Chi has encroached upon the area previously used as a hiding site. IDPs have broken into smaller groups making them more isolated and vulnerable. KSWDC is concerned that it will become harder to locate and provide them with ERA in the future.
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 604
Villages and People Affected
No. Village Households M > 5 F > 5 M < 5 F < 5 Male Female Total 1 Thipo 55 124 128 10 14 134 142 276 2 Kathochi (upper) 24 54 58 8 10 62 68 130 3 Kathochi 21 49 46 6 7 55 53 108 (lower) 4 Mukahday 27 65 73 14 11 79 84 163 5 Kwachi 71 152 155 30 33 182 188 370 6 Hosachi 20 52 53 8 8 60 61 121 7 Showlo 7 17 14 6 5 23 19 42 8 Sawdaw Ku 25 58 62 10 10 68 72 140 9 Pwado 10 24 23 6 4 30 27 57 10 Kawtodo 37 110 113 8 7 118 120 238 11 Todoleko 21 44 46 7 9 51 55 106 12 Lalawhtee 32 78 83 11 8 89 91 180 13 Hkotro 30 76 78 8 6 84 84 168 14 Kawarsoe 10 26 23 4 5 30 28 258 390 929 955 136 137 1,065 1,092 2,157
CLARK UNIVERSITY | INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNITY, AND ENVIRONMENT 605