The Myanmar Accountability Project (MAP) and the Chin Human Rights Organization (CHRO) announced on Monday that Timor-Leste's judiciary opened legal proceedings against the military in Myanmar, including Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

This is the first time a member of the Association of South East Asia Nations (ASEAN), has initiated such action against a fellow ASEAN member state.

"We look forward to working with the Timorese authorities, as well as civil society groups in Timor-Leste, on pursuing justice for the Chin people and all people in Myanmar. Given Timor Leste's history, and the indignities the Timorese people suffered in their struggle for independence, there is a real sense of solidarity with the people of Myanmar," said Salai Za Uk Ling, the CHRO executive director.

A senior Timorese prosecutor has been appointed to look into the evidence provided by CHRO, which outlines crimes such as the gang rape of a pregnant woman in front of her husband; the massacre of 10 people, including a journalist and a 13-year-old boy.

More crimes allegedly committed by the Myanmar military includes the deliberate killing of a Christian Pastor and three Deacons; a disproportionate and indiscriminate aerial attack on a hospital, which killed four medical staff and four patients, and a series of attacks on Christian churches, civilian infrastructure, which are protected under international law.

Source: https://english.dvb.no/timor-leste-opens-unprecedented-case-against-myanmar-military