Oct 31, 2007 (DVB), A National League for Democracy member from Mandalay division has been given a six-year prison sentence for making accusations against Union Solidarity and Development Association officials.

Aye Cho, an NLD member from Pyaw Bwe township, was arrested on 30 September after he reportedly went to a local USDA office and accused them of planning the assassination of NLD members.

He was brought before Yamethin prison court the following day and sentenced to six years' imprisonment under section 505 (b) of the penal code, which covers the making of any statement which could cause public alarm or incite an offence.

After sentencing, Aye Cho was moved from Yamethin prison, which is in Mandalay division, to Myin Chan prison in Magwe. He was transferred two further times, first to Monywa prison in Sagaing division and then to Kalay prison.

No prison visits have been allowed and Aye Cho's family have said they are worried about him because he suffers from heart problems and hypertension.

Reporting by Naw Say Phaw