SHAN STATE – A junta soldier has come into the legal fold under the All Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF) in Momeik Township of northern Shan State.
Mr. Arkar, the information officer of ABSDF Column 2 reported that Shine Lin Htet, a 37 year old soldier from junta light infantry battalion (LIB) 348 in Momeik Township deserted his base on March 28 and surrendered with his weapon.
He reportedly surrendered his MA1 rifle and 120 bullets and was awarded cash for it then sent to the liberated area. He was originally from infantry 235 under Pakokku based Division 101 and deserted his post after being deployed to northern Shan State.
“By the time he arrived to us, he has suffered both physical and mental trauma under the junta council and is currently preparing to receive treatment for his trauma,” explained Comrade Arkar.
ABSDF shared that the former junta soldier contacted the ABSDF officials to escape the junta army after witnessing the junta forces bullying and verbally and physically abusing the civilians, and experiencing torture and discrimination at the hands of the junta officers and other soldiers in the battalion.