146 PDF members re-enter legal fold along with weapons in Sagaing Region

A total of 146 members of PDF groups — including 133 men and 13 women — have re-entered the legal fold along with weapons and ammunition, according to reports.

A ceremony to hand over the returnees to their parents and guardians was held on May 15 at the Zeyathiri Hall of the Northwestern Command Headquarters. The event was attended by Sagaing Region Chief Minister U Ko Lay, Regional Commander Maj-Gen Kyaw Thu Ra, departmental officials, the returnees, and their family members.

During the ceremony, the returnees surrendered five homemade pistols, six assault rifles, and two communication devices, which were officially received by the regional commander.

Authorities also provided financial rewards and assistance for the surrendered items and those who had returned under the legal framework. The support included Ks 2.5 million for the five homemade pistols, Ks 30 million for the six assault rifles, Ks 400,000 for the two communication devices, and Ks 1.9 million for the returnees, totaling Ks 34.8 million, along with food supplies.

The returnees later signed pledges and were formally handed back to their parents and guardians, reports said.

During the ceremony, those who returned to the legal framework, who truly believe in the peace process and want peace and stability in the region, were handed over to their parents and guardians. They were one man from Yinmabin Township, one man from Salingyi Township, 11 men and one woman from Pale Township, three men from Monywa Township, two women from Myinmu Township, five men and one woman from Homalin Township, two men from Tamu Township, 33 men and two women from Kalay Township, 56 men and five women from Sagaing Township, four men from Hteechin Township, one man from Katha Township, and 16 men and two women from Shwebo Township, totaling 146.

The people who returned to the legal framework are being welcomed back, provided with necessary assistance, and systematically handed over to their parents and guardians. It is understood that there are still those who wish to return to the legal framework. Those who wish to return to the legal framework can contact the nearby district and township administrative bodies, If one quickly contact military bases and police stations and report the incident, they will be welcomed and provided with the necessary assistance and will be given generous rewards for weapons/ammunition.