Army Attacks Continue in Myanmar’s Most Christian State
In a town in the Chin region, government soldiers burned and looted homes and churches. More than 160 buildings in a town in northwestern Myanmar, including at least two churches, have been destroyed by fires caused by shelling by government troops, local media and activists reported Saturday.
According to Chin Human Rights Organization, the town of Thantlang once again came under an arson attack by the Tatmadaw on December 4, where 19 structures were burned down by the junta soldiers. Along with neighboring houses, United Pentecostal Church and its clergy quarter near the center of the town were set on fire.
Salai Isaac Khin, a former regional minister, shared on his Facebook that ousted Vice President Henry Van Thio and his wife, Dr. Sui Hluan used to attend the church.
Since Sep. 9, more than 450 houses, including five church buildings were burned down in the now desolated Thantlang. Over 10,000 residents have fled to neighboring states or India to avoid the ongoing fighting between local resistance forces and the Tatmadaw.
Chin activists believe that the continuous attack shows the junta’s intention of clearing more structures near the brigade’s camp. However, the targeted destruction of churches also points to the Tatmadaw’s hostilities toward Christianity.
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