Burma: Thaw Zin freed released

16/10/2014
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On 26 September 2014, Burma’s government released human rights defender Thaw Zin from Monywa Prison in Sagaing Division. Thaw Zin, a member of the Yangon People’s Support Network, campaigned for farmers affected by the Letpadaung copper mine in Salingyi Township, Sagaing Division.

In March 2014, Thaw Zin was sentenced to 15 months in prison under Article 447 (trespassing) and 505(b) (disturbing public tranquility) of the Criminal Code for his role in helping local villagers protest against land seizures related to the Letpadaung copper mine. No reason was given for his early release.

FIDH mobilized and advocated for Thaw Zin’s release, through its Observatory and its profiles of Burma’s prominent political prisoners.

Despite the release of a handful of political prisoners in the 7 October amnesty, about 80 dissidents remain behind bars in Burma.

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