Gold Mines Destroying Farmland in Eastern Shan State

Sai Laung Hein Company has been mining for white gold for many years in the vicinity of Maw Thwee Village, Mong Koe area in Tachileik Township, Eastern Shan State. Their lack of responsible mining waste has destroyed farmland and orchard garden of nearby community.
One of the local residents Daw Nar Gar said “even though the company’s mining waste has no problem in winter and summer but during rainy season, it has problems as it destroyed our farmland. We want the company to be responsible. We want them to make sure not to dump their waste near the river or mountain.”
“They should manage their waste properly. When the time of political instability like this, we don’t know who to complain to when there is a problem.” Said another resident Daw Weik.

Due to the use of chemical in mining operations and their lack of proper disposal of their waste, the toxic waste goes into the stream which has impacted on water usage for local community and it also cause skin irritation.
Mining in Mong Koe area started after 2010 and the case of confiscation of farmland of the local people has happened. In addition, there was no consultation and discussion with local community about the negative impact caused by mining operation. The company did not pay any compensation when their waste has affected the farmland and orchard land of local community.
Sai Laung Hein Company is owned by veteran military personal Tin Nwe. The company has many metal operations in Tachileik Township in eastern Shan State and they are full supporter of the current military coup State Administrative Council.