By Kantarawaddy Times
On July 17, 2024, seven inmates were released from Loikaw Prison in Kayah State. Among them were three political prisoners, sources confirmed.
The Karenni Political Prisoners Association (KPPA) Information and Public Relations Officer, Ko Sithu, told the Kantarawaddy Times that the seven released individuals included four others charged with various offenses.
“Seven inmates were released on July 17th. Of these, two were imprisoned for drug-related offenses, one for a police-related offense, one for a military-related offense, and three for unjust sentences, totaling seven,” said Ko Sithu.
All the released inmates were men.
According to Ko Sithu, the offenses for which they were imprisoned included 11 years for drug offenses under Section 13(b), 3 years for political offenses under Section 17(1), and 3 years for military and police offenses.
“Those convicted under Section 13(b) for drug offenses originally received 11-year sentences. However, they benefited from national amnesties twice, reducing their sentence to 4 years, 4 months, and 7 days. Those convicted of political offenses under Section 17(1) served 2 years and 4 months out of a 3-year sentence. Those convicted of military and police offenses served 1 year out of a 3-year sentence due to national amnesties,” he explained.
Currently, Loikaw Prison houses 30 female inmates and 407 male inmates. Since the military coup, over 180 inmates have been released from Loikaw Prison through various amnesties.
