Arakan Protests Continue Despite Threats from Authorities

Source: http://dvb.no

Over 10,000 people in the Arakan town of Marn Aung staged another protest yesterday against the Burmese government's harassment of demonstrators.

The demonstrations took place despite threats from Marn Aung authorities that anyone taking part in protests in the town would be arrested.

Villagers from around Marn Aung township began the protest at around 10am, and were later joined by town residents. The protesters were given food, water and cheroot by bystanders in a show of support.

"We shouted slogans calling for the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners and demanding that the government stop harassing monks," said a person who joined the protest.

"We also went to Mahagyi pagoda in town and prayed for freedom for those who have been detained," added the protester.

This follows a protest on Monday staged by residents of the town and nearby villages which was joined by over 5,000 people.