Myanmar activist’s jailing tied to copper mine protests

Myanmar has jailed an activist for two years in connection with protests over a controversial mine project, her lawyer said, despite the regime's pledge to free all political prisoners.

Naw Ohn Hla, 49, was convicted on Thursday for public order offences in the town of Monywa, where the Chinese-backed Letpadaung mine has triggered fierce opposition from local villagers.

The activist, who has been arrested a number of times in the past for her activities, was detained on August 13 after her request to stage a protest was denied, her lawyer, Robert San Aung, said.

Rights campaigners have expressed concern at the arrest of activists opposed to the mine.

A botched raid on a protest at the copper mine last November sparked an outpouring of anger after police used phosphorus against demonstrators, in the harshest crackdown since the end of military rule.