Some ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) are providing explosive and military training to citizens, said General Zaw Min Tun at a press conference at the State Administrative Council (SAC) on June 12.
These armed groups include the Kachin Independence Army ( KIA), Karenni National Progressive Party ( KNPP), the Karen National Union (KNU), according to the General.
” On June 5, two people who had returned from a KIA basic military and explosive training were arrested in Taukkyan. According to the detainees, they arrived at a military training camp run by the KIA’s 3rd Brigade and trained with more than 140 others, ” said General Zaw Min Tun.
He did not say that all ethnic armed groups were providing military training, but indicated that some armed groups were committing acts of terrorism at the brigade or battalion level .
On April 30, it was reported that 70 youths returning from KNPP military training were arrested, but they were not affiliated with a military unit.
In an interview with the Kantarawaddy Times, KNPP secretary (2) Khu Daniel spoke about the arrests.
” … there are courses the KNPP gives. For example: training provided by KNPP will be the Karenni Army. If we train directly from the KNPP, it will be the Karenni Army. There is no reason for them (the 70 persons arrested) to be released.”
In addition, three individuals who received military and explosive training were arrested in Yankin Township on June 8.
