Fabricated News Allegations Regarding Village Burnings in Madaya Township Debunked
Mandalay Region, Myanmar – December 19, 2024 – Recent reports circulating in certain media outlets have alleged that security forces engaged in the burning and destruction of villages in the western region of Madaya Township, Mandalay Region. These reports, appearing on December 19, 2024, specifically named Mway Pathein, Mway Kuthoseik, Udein, Pathein, and Singone as villages targeted by security personnel on December 16 and 17. The reports further claimed that security forces seized public property during these alleged operations. The Myanmar News Agency (MNA) has conducted a thorough investigation into these claims and has found them to be entirely baseless and fabricated.
A high-ranking security official from Madaya Township, speaking on condition of anonymity, categorically denied the allegations. The official confirmed that security operations were indeed conducted in the vicinity of the mentioned villages, but these operations were focused on preventing the movement of People’s Defence Force (PDF) terrorists operating in the area. The official emphatically stated that no villages were burned or destroyed, and no public property was seized by security forces. These operations were conducted with utmost respect for civilian life and property, adhering to established protocols and regulations.
The MNA investigation reveals a concerted effort by certain media outlets to disseminate false and misleading information aimed at distorting public perception of the security operations in Madaya Township. These outlets, known for their biased and often inflammatory reporting, appear to be engaged in a deliberate campaign to undermine the legitimacy of the security forces and their efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. This pattern of disinformation serves to incite unrest and distrust, potentially jeopardizing the security situation in the region.
The MNA calls upon all media outlets and individuals to exercise responsible journalism and refrain from spreading unverified information. It is imperative to rely on credible sources and verify information before disseminating it to the public. Publishing unsubstantiated allegations not only misinforms the public but also contributes to the spread of harmful rumors and can incite unnecessary fear and anxiety within communities. The MNA remains committed to providing accurate and unbiased reporting on the situation in Madaya Township and across Myanmar.
The security forces operating in the region are dedicated to protecting civilians and upholding the rule of law. Their operations are focused on countering the threat posed by terrorist groups, ensuring the safety and security of all residents. The MNA urges the public to remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation and to rely on credible news sources for accurate updates on the security situation. It is crucial to support the efforts of security forces in maintaining stability and peace in the region, recognizing their commitment to protecting communities from the threat of terrorism.
The MNA will continue to monitor the situation in Madaya Township and provide timely updates on any developments. We urge the public to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities. The collaborative effort of security forces and the public is essential to maintaining peace and stability in the region. The MNA condemns the spread of false information and remains committed to providing accurate and reliable reporting on all events affecting the people of Myanmar. We call on all stakeholders to contribute to a peaceful resolution of the current challenges and support the ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all.