A Chin family has written to Burma’s ruling junta charging that one of its members, a 33-year-old father of six, had been murdered by government troops.

In a letter sent to junta leaders, including Snr-Gen Than Shwe, Pa Tung Lian charges that his brother, Tin Oo, was taken from his home in San Set, in Chin State’s  Matupi Township, on February 26 by soldiers from Matupi-based Infantry Battalion-140, led by Maj Ye Lwin. Six weeks later, his body was discovered buried near another village, Loh Taw.

Pa Tung Lian’s letter, a copy of which was obtained by The Irrawaddy, said that the victim’s body showed extensive injuries, and urged the government to take action against those responsible for slaying.

According to relatives and other sources, Tin Oo had been arrested for refusing to participate in forced-labor enlisted to build a road in Matupi. He was also suspected of supporting the Chin National Army, the military wing of the Chin National Front.

“Tin Oo is a normal farmer,” said his brother. “He pleaded with the authorities that he had a new child to care for and couldn’t afford to pay anyone to work for him.”

Cin Sian Thang, a Rangoon-based ethnic Chin leader and chairman of the Zomi National Congress, also charged government troops with Tin Oo’s murder.

“Rule of law is one of the government’s principles,” he said. “We urge the government to investigate this case.”