Hostage Crisis at Kalay University in Myanmar
Yangon (27 February 2024) In a disturbing turn of events, Kalay University, Sagaing Division in Myanmar fell victim to an egregious act of terrorism on February 26, 2024, as the Chin land Defense Force (CDF) from Chin state seized control of the campus, taking hundreds of students, teachers, and staff members hostage.
Eyewitnesses reported that the terrorists infiltrated the university grounds from the south at approximately 7:30 AM, targeting individuals affiliated with the Physics and Zoology departments. Swift action from local informants alerted security forces to the unfolding crisis, prompting immediate intervention. Security forces, acting decisively, engaged with the terrorists, managing to rescue 285 individuals from captivity. However, an unknown number of teachers, students, and university staff remain held captive, with investigations ongoing to ascertain their whereabouts and ensure their safe release.
This brazen attack on a civilian institution not only endangers innocent lives but also constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law. Deliberate targeting of educational and medical facilities, such as universities and hospitals, is recognized as a grave breach of the Geneva Conventions and constitutes a war crime.
Regrettably, this incident at Kalay University echoes a similar tragedy that occurred on November 13, 2023, when the Karenni People Defense Force (KPDF) terrorists launched an assault on Loikaw University, resulting in the abduction of numerous individuals, including a university rector, teachers, students, and staff members.
It is imperative to underscore that the act of taking hostages is unequivocally condemned under international law. Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions explicitly prohibits such actions, emphasizing the protection of non-combatants during armed conflict. Furthermore, the Fourth Geneva Convention reiterates the prohibition on hostage-taking and categorizes it as a grave breach, warranting universal condemnation and swift justice against perpetrators.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for the international community to stand in solidarity with the victims and unequivocally denounce such heinous acts of terrorism. Efforts must be redoubled to ensure the safe release of all hostages and to hold accountable those responsible for this reprehensible assault on the principles of humanity and dignity.
[Reference: [1] Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions]
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