Of seven reporters arrested while covering news in Yangon city on February 27, six have been charged under Section 505 (a) of the penal code of Myanmar and one was released, said their lawyers. 

Reporter Kay Zun Nway from Myanmar Now, reporter Aung Ye Ko from 7 Day, photojournalist Ye Myo Khant from MPA, reporter Thein Zaw from AP, reporter Hein Pyae Zaw from Zeegwat news agency and freelance reporter Banya Oo were arrested as they covered news in some protest scenes in Yangon including Myaynigone and Hledan. They had not been released till March 2. 

The reporters from Myanmar Now and 7 Day and the freelance reporter were charged with defamation under Section 505 (a) of the penal code, said Nilar Khaing, lawyer for the defendants. 

“I was told by the warden of Insein Prison,” the lawyer confirmed. 

Some people arrested in the protests were released after their signed confessions. But when enquiring about the situation of those detained for more than 24 hours, the prison official said some arrested reporters and protestors were in a position to face charges. 

“Not only reporters, some public members arrested have also been charged under Section 505 (a),” Nilar Khaing said. 

Similarly, the three reporters from MPA, AP and Zeegwat were charged with State defamation but photojournalist Shin Moe Myint was released. Her release however could not be confirmed. 

The arrested journalists were remanded in custody via video link due to the ongoing situation, their lawyers said. 

Section 505 (a) of the penal code stipulates that anyone with intent to cause, or who is likely to cause any officer, soldier, sailor or airman, in the Army, Navy or Air Force to mutiny or otherwise disregard or fail in his duty as such; or shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.