08/24/2021 Myanmar (International Christian Concern) – The priest and the catechist who were released on August 4, after being abducted by a local defense force in Chin state, have now resumed their work.

The duo was arrested after being accused of allegedly supplying information to the military, receiving medical support from the junta, and urging local people to receive the junta’s support.

According to Agenzia Fides, Fr. Paul Thla Kio, a priest from the Hakha diocese, confirmed that after the release of Father Noel Hrang Tin Thang and the catechist Clement Cung Hnin, the two were able to return to their homes in Surkhua city. They are safe and continue their pastoral ministry.

Fides learned that the delegation of the Bishop of Hakha, which negotiated the release of the two, had to sign a four-point commitment: the priest must cut off all contact with the Burmese army; he must not denigrate the local Chinland Defense Force (CDF); he is not allowed to participate in the implementation of government projects and he must be transferred to Hakha.

This incident shows the dilemma faced by religious clergy in Myanmar after the February 1 coup. They have to walk a fine line between the Burmese Army and local defense forces as they seek to serve their people, otherwise they can be easily mistaken for “collaborators” on one side or the other in the ongoing conflict.

For interviews, please contact Addison Parker: press@persecution.org.