2 foreign reporters, 2 others, detained for illegal use of drones in Myanmar

Authorities questioning foreign-based reporters. PHOTO from Eleven Media Group/Asia News Network

Four people, including foreign-based reporters, have been charged under the Export and Import Law for illegal use of drones around the parliament buildings in Nay Pyi Taw.

Police detained the suspects for questioning after a security guard from the Lower House reported the drones on October 29.

The arrested included a Malaysian named Mok Choy Lin, a Singaporean named Lau Hon Meng, interpreter Aung Naing Soe (aka) Rakuk and driver Hla Tin (aka) Shafi, according to police records.

The two foreign-based reporters were from Singapore-based Turkish Radio and Television news agency, police said.Under interrogation, the interpreter said they intended for the drones to take pictures of the parliament buildings, scenery and pagodas in Myanmar.

Police detained them just as they started the flights, he said.

“Investigations into the incident are ongoing. We can’t comment any further,” said Police Major San Aung from Zabuthiri Township Police Station.

The drone was found to be imported illegally, resulting in the group being charged under the Export and Import Law and are now detained at No. 1 Myoma Police Station, said the police.

The two foreign reporters remain in the country under a visa that expires November 18.