Myanmar court frees three journalists on bail

On October 10, 2018, Eleven Media’s chief reporter, Phyo Wai Win, and two editors, Kyaw Zaw Lin and Nayi Min were arrested following a complaint lodged by the regional government in the commercial capital of Yangon. They were arrested for publishing a story that included quotes from local lawmakers questioning the city’s use of funds, including the overhaul of the bus network.

These three journalists are facing charges under Section 505 (b) of  Mayanmar's penal code, which prohibits publishing information that may “cause fear or alarm” or disrupt “public tranquility”. If convicted they may face a maximum penalty of two years in prison.

On October 26, they were freed on bail and they mentioned that they will not cave in and apologise to the Yangon regional government as had been requested, and will instead stand trial.