Clash between students and factory workers in Sagaing

DVB ( August 11,2003)

More than three students were sent to Sagaing Hospital after a clash happened between students of Education University and factory workers of Wa Army owned Hon Pan Factory in Sagaing on 4th August.

According to a local citizen, there had no report of serious injuries. There was also no official report on how many factory workers were wounded.

The clash was started by a fight between factory workers and two students. Later, 25 students gathered in front of the factory and demanded the mangers to submit the involved workers.

According to the local people, the number of students increased to 100 around 9 pm, almost two hours after the fight began. More quarrels happened with the factory’s security.

Then the students invaded the compound through the gate and smashed windows, flowerpots and signboards.

The local and regional authorities, the police and soldiers were called to solve the problem.

A local resident of Sagaing who did not want to be named, told DVB that the disputes were about women and no shooting was involved. But several students were slight injured and some of them were sent to Sagaing hospital, according to the interviewee.

Similar clash also happened between the students and factory workers in 2001. Now, the authorities are said to be closely watching the incident as it happened closely to the 15th anniversary of the 8888 uprising was on 8 August.

Additional information provided by the local resident in Sagaing.

Education University is quite near Hon Pan Factory and situated on the northern tip of Sagaing. The construction was finished three years ago and there are about 1500 students. A lot of courses are offered. Students could join it after they gain a BAT or GAT certificate or pass their high school exams.