Journalists detained in Myanmar: The army is trying to silence the media

Arakan News Agency
Three journalists imprisoned for their press coverage in Myanmar for which it  have been accused of trying to silence the media, while fears of freedom of expression are increasing.
The journalists were among seven people arrested by the military on June 28 after a  race organized by the National Liberation Army, one of the many rebel groups fighting government forces.
Journalist Lau Wing said the army was trying to intimidate journalists to silence them, while the three journalists were in the dock.
“I am handcuffed because I am a journalist,” Lau told reporters outside the courthouse in the northeastern district. Is this democracy? “Before lifting his hands up.
“We were arrested in a bid to compromise our convictions. But we are not afraid. ”
“This is a disgrace to Myanmar, which tells the world that we are on the road to democracy,” said Ay Nayg, a senior reporter for the Democratic Voice of Myanmar

Five of the seven detainees were charged under article 1 of the Law on Illegal Organizations, “which penalizes up to three years’ imprisonment any contact with a rebel group.
The legislation was widely used during the former military government, which stepped down in 2011, paving the way for pro-democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi to take power last year.
Aung San Suu Kyi has faced mounting international criticism for not doing more to protect journalists, who face increasing harassment during her rule.
The arrests come amid escalating action among journalists aimed at revoking the law to prevent criticism of the government and army.