Kanbawza Tai News editor Nang Nang Tai, also known as Nway Nway Hlaing, was arrested on March 24, 2021, at her home in Hopong, Shan State, after covering protests against the military’s February 1, 2021, democracy-suspending coup, according to news reports and Zay Tai, the news website’s chief editor, who communicated with CPJ by messaging app.
Nang Nang Tai is being held at Taunggyi’s Taung Lay Lone Prison in Shan State on accusations under Article 505(a) of the penal code, according to the same sources. The broad provision criminalizes “any attempt to cause fear, spread false news or agitate directly or indirectly a criminal offense against a government employee” or that “causes their hatred, disobedience, or disloyalty toward the military and the government.” Convictions under the provision allow for a maximum three-year prison sentence.
The reporter had not been formally charged or allowed access to a lawyer as of October 1, Zay Tai told CPJ.
The military junta has cracked down on Myanmar’s independent media since the coup, detaining dozens of journalists, according to CPJ research.
The Ministry of Information did not reply to CPJ’s emailed request sent in late November 2021 for comment on her legal status and treatment in detention.