YANGON: A total of 146 members of People's Defence Force groups — including 133 men and 13 women — have re-entered the legal fold along with weapons and ammunition.
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 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 (US$1,190) 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.
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.
Those who wish to return to the legal framework can contact the nearby district and township administrative bodies. They will be welcomed and provided with the necessary assistance and will be given generous rewards for weapons/ammunition. - Eleven Media/ANN
