PRESS RELEASE (15) (r)

[kyaw@xxxxxxxxxxxx]

Hi Ko Htee,
Is there any message for me? If so, please forward this account. Thanks.

MYO

At 07:09 AM 3/12/97, you wrote:
>From: "All Burma Students' Democratic Front" <lurie@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
>
>                       NCUB PRESS RELEASE NO [15]
>                       ===========================
>                                        
>                                                March 11, 1997
>
>SITUATION OF THE REFUGEES WHO FLED FROM THE SLORC OFFENSIVE IN
>"KNLA BRIGADE 6 AREA"                                            
>
>No Pho refugee camp in Umpang District, Tak Province was officially
>opened on March 7, 1997.  Thai officials from Tak District attended
>the opening ceremony and have been monitoring the situation and
>ensuring that the basic necessities of the refugees are being met. 
>The refugees have been fleeing from the SLORC's massive offensive
>against the Karen National Union (KNU) in Karen National Liberation
>Army (KNLA) Brigade 6 area.
>
>New refugees are continuing to arrive at the camp every day.  
>There are already over 12,000 refugees in the camp including
>refugees from other camps in Umpang District which were located
>close to the border and in danger of attack.  The refugees from
>other camps such as Lay Pho Hta, No Pa Law Wah, and No Pado have
>been moved to No Pho during the past week.  Each family has been
>allocated 25 feet x 30 feet lots for the construction of their
>homes.
>
>Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been allowed access to
>provide humanitarian assistance including basic foods and necessary
>medicines. They have also supplied roofing materials and installed
>water pipes and taps throughout the camp.  Thai officials have been
>establishing security measures as it is expected that the DKBA may
>attempt to attack this camp in the next few months.
>
>"We believe that the refugees will enjoy internationally accepted
>refugee rights under the care of the Royal Thai Government. Their
>understanding and assistance at this difficult time is greatly
>appreciated," said a spokesperson from the NCUB.
>
>Many people are still hiding in the jungle on the Burma side of the
>border and are expected to arrive in the next few weeks.  According
>to recent arrivals in the camp, many other villagers in Karen State
>are also planning to flee to the border, because the SLORC troops
>who have arrived in their villages have taken their rice,
>valuables, and livestock, and forced them to construct bunkers and
>work as porters. There have also been reports of gang rapes,
>disappearances, and killings committed by the SLORC.
>
>Information Committee
>National Council of the Union of Burma (NCUB)
>
>
>