Death toll rises to 32 in Myanmar's Meikhtila riot

A total of 32 people were killed in a communal riot in Meikthila of Myanmar's northern Mandalay region, according to the state-run radio and television Saturday.The state radio and TV said in a broadcast that the death toll was increased as the dead bodies were found while clearing the debris.The sectrian riot left over 9,600 people homeless out of around 500,000 populations in Meikhtila.Situation in Meikthila remained calm after security was tightened since Friday, according to local sources.Local authorities and security forces are making increased efforts to keep the situation under control and the soldiers are patrolling the dispute occurred area.Relief, rehabilitation work are underway in riot-hit areas and the authorities from Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement are providing the victims with necessary assistance, accommodating them at six relief camps for their safety.The residents began their daily activities, running their business normally starting from Saturday morning.The riot was sparked by a brawl between buyers and sellers over a bit of gold clip at a gold shop on Wednesday.According to official sources, 152 houses, one education office and 13 religious buildings were burnt with 2 motor vehicles and three motor cycles being destroyed.Since the first night of the incident, local authorities imposed curfew on Meikhtila banning gathering of people of more than five in an initial bid to restore peace and tranquility but the situation became worse.On Friday, Myanmar President U Thein Sein declared a state of emergency in four townships including Meikhtila, Wandwin, Mahlaing and Thazi townships in Meikhtila District, Mandalay region.The declaration was made in view of the fact that administration in the regions cannot be carried out effectively by local authorities and for the sake of security, stability and tranquility, the announcement said.The authorities have warned that effective action would be taken against those who led the riots to disrupt the community peace.