Mizzima
In the wake of a tragic incident involving the murder of a tricycle driver from Siaha Town, Mizoram State, India by four Myanmar nationals, stringent measures have been implemented by local authorities affecting Burmese refugees in Mizoram.
The perpetrators, four underage boys hailing from Rakan Village, Paletwa Town, Chin State, Myanmar, are accused of the crime which occurred on 24 January. Subsequently, law enforcement apprehended the suspects, leading to increased restrictions on Myanmar nationals in the area.
“These tightened restrictions vary across different locations. The officials have been advised against unnecessary travel, instructed not to entertain visitors, and urged to refrain from woodcutting activities in the forest,” said a Burmese refugee said.
Following the murder case, village councils and youth organizations in Siaha Town, have implemented a series of restrictions affecting Burmese refugees. These measures include prohibiting the use of motorbikes brought by the refugees, as well as hunting and foraging for vegetables in the forest.
With many Burmese refugees relying on daily labour for income, rather than receiving consistent support, these restrictions further compound their challenges.
Additionally, the closure of entry gates from Myanmar to Siaha Town, enacted in the aftermath of the murder, remains in place. As a result, Burmese refugees report difficulties in accessing essential supplies, including food rations and medicines.
The Siaha District Level Committee on Myanmar Refugees has issued a statement, dated 5 February, informing the Mizoram Government of a significant increase in food scarcity in two Burmese refugee camps located in Siaha. The committee has urged the government to prepare for a potential influx of more Burmese refugees, indicating a worsening situation.
In an effort to ensure the safety and peace of local residents, the committee has encouraged all Burmese refugees to possess identification documents (ID). Additionally, the committee has emphasized the importance of apprehending individuals found without proper identification documents.
According to the committee, there are currently over 50,000 Burmese refugees seeking refuge in Mizoram.
