Returnees to the Legal Fold: Commander of East Command welcomed them

The government has been inviting individuals currently within armed opposition groups, including those operating under various names such as the PDF, to return to the legal fold, and has been providing necessary support to those who have done so. Understanding the state and military's peace processes, a total of 27 individuals have now entered the legal fold with their weapons and ammunition.

This group comprises six men and one woman from DPLA, five men from KNDF, fourteen men from PNLO, and one man from the so-called Thaton PDF. A ceremony to welcome these returnees and hand them over to their parents or guardians was held on March 24, at the Thanlwin Hall of the East Command.

The event was attended by the Commander of East Command, Brigadier General Kyaw Naing Oo, along with officials concerned, departmental officials, the returnees, and their parents. First, the Commander delivered a speech. Subsequently, an official provided educational briefings regarding regional stability, peace, and the rule of law.

After that, the returnees handed over the weapons and ammunition they had brought with them including one M-16, two M-22s, one sniper rifle, one AK-47, three Type-81 rifles, two pistols, and related ammunition to the Commander and responsible officials, who received them. Following this, the Commander and officials provided cash rewards to those who entered the legal fold with their weapons: 4 million kyats for the two pistols, 40 million kyats for the eight automatic rifles, and 4.9 million kyats for the returnees themselves, totaling 48.9 million kyats.

The returnees then signed commitment statements and were handed over to their parents or guardians. Afterwards, one of the returnees expressed gratitude. The State and Tatmadaw continue to welcome those returning to the legal fold, providing necessary support and systematically handing them over to their guardians.

There are still individuals who wish to return to the legal fold. Those wishing to do so are encouraged to promptly contact nearby military camps or police stations, where they will be welcomed, provided with necessary assistance, and given rewards for any weapons and ammunition surrendered, it’s learnt.