Buddha statues beheaded in Pekon, Kayah State
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Lynn/ Thuta Kyaw (NP News) - Oct 8
Images and videos depicting the decapitation of eight Buddha statues near the Laei village pagoda in Pekon Township, which borders Kayah State and Shan State and is recognized for its backing of the KNDF, started to spread online on October 2nd.
A local monk stated to The NP News that “the act of decapitating Buddha statues in Pekon Township is a deliberate attempt to mock Buddhism.”
As per information, the pagoda on the mountainous area was completed in 2019 having a total of 16 Buddha statues. Villagers first became aware on October 1st that eight of these statues had been decapitated.
“We found decapitated Buddha statues and there are two main reasons behind it. First, these ancient statues hold significant value, which drives some to steal them for profit. The second reason is a deliberate attempt to mock and undermine Buddhism. Observing these statues, it's clear they are not ancient. Thus, it can be concluded that this act represents an insult and destruction of Buddhism,” the monk stated.
In previous month, a Kachin female singer-cum-KIA female personnel Mai Mai Seng was spotted climbing onto the pagoda in shoes and posting disrespectful photos aimed at Buddhism on her Facebook account.
“These actions reveal the hidden desires of those behind the rebellion. Their suppressed feelings emerge when they feel empowered. It's crucial to be aware of this situation,” the monk stated.
The incident happened in the area controlled the KNDF (the Kayah terrorist group).