Burma-Myanmar: Kachin Independence Army (KIA) claims to have captured 30 child soldiers among government troops
A large number of child soldiers have reportedly been found among 34 government troops being detained by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) at its Laiza headquarters.
The captives were seized by the rebels during battle and are currently in limbo as they do not dare to go back to their families for fear of being arrested under military law.
KIA spokesman La Nan told The Irrawaddy on Friday that his organization would allow the soldiers to return but they are worried about coming to harm or being imprisoned.
Around 30 of those captured are under age while two are only 15 years old, according to La Nan. Fighting broke out in Kachin State in June last year to put an end to a 17-year ceasefire between the rebels and Burmese government.
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http://www.irrawaddy.org/archives/9087