No. 05 - 11/2005
05 November 2005

Human Rights

Burglary scare in Rangoon markets

Rumors of widespread burglaries have scared owners into downing their shutters early in Rangoon. More and more people are being affected because of this, according to the Free Information Group. Acute financial distress is said to be forcing many from the suburbs to resort to burglary.

"People are being affected because of the rumors of robberies. First a shop closed and others followed suit. Finally, the whole market was shut down,” said a shopkeeper from Yuzana Blazer, Tamawe Township. Afraid of being robbed, some shopkeepers have stopped opening their stores altogether in markets in Rangoon.

"Prices rose even before the price of oil and fuel went up because of bomb blasts. Goods from China and Thailand have stopped coming, as the borders are closed. As a result, prices are mounting daily,” explained a rice-store owner from Insein Market. The shopkeeper said previously people bought rice in by Pyi (3.3 Liter), but now they can only buy in milk-cans.

Because of financial problems more and more people in the suburbs of Rangoon are resorting to burglary, while some women have turned to prostitution. Security has been tightened around cargo-stores, shopping malls and markets.

"Though I don’t have good curries, I can still afford regular meals. But it is a bad situation, and some have died of starvation. If someone starts stealing there are many who follow suit because they are hungry,” said a laborer from a suburban area.