BAGO DIVISION – It is reported that Chinese people have been mining for gold using heavy machinery in Shwegyin Town after bribing the military officers of the Regional Military Command (Pyay).
A local resident answered to the media that Chinese nationals are actually mining gold using heavy machineries at Kanbe Ai Village, beneath the Pagoda and the lower valley of Shwegyin River, while they claim to be mining (river) sand.
“Many Chinese have been working in the area, digging holes up to 200-300 feet with big machines. We are concerned about the consequences and natural disasters following the process. Those mines are also close to Myo-Oo Pagoda. The Chinese have been bribing the officials of the Regional Military Command,” said the informer.
A person close to the junta administration said that some officials, including Brigadier General Aung Naing Oo, the regional military commander, were investigated for gold mining and were transferred to another post at the end of August.
“Because of that gold mining issue, Brigadier General Aung Naing Oo got transferred last month. Some Chinese are also digging for crude oil near Pantaung Town and the junta army provided security,” he continued.
Brigadier General San Htay Maung and Deputy Commander Kaung Myat have been appointed to the position of Brigadier General Aung Naing Oo, starting September 1.
Similarly, it is reported that 23 Chinese entrepreneurs are drilling for crude oil in Pantaung Township’s Swetaw Village. Ten junta officers, including Captain Kyaw Zin Thant and five policemen led by Officer Ko Ko Zaw and Pyithusit militia members, have reportedly been providing security, according to locals.