Director Pye Maung Sine, a prominent figure among documentary filmmakers in Myanmar, passed away three days after being released from prison on August 19, following severe health issues endured during his incarceration.

At the age of 51, Pye Maung Sine was arrested on May 28, 2022, at a military checkpoint in Loikaw, Kayah State. He was detained due to his connections with local civilian defense forces and the National Unity Government (NUG).

After being detained and interrogated at a military checkpoint in Loikaw for about a month, Director Pye Maung Sine was sentenced to three years in prison under Section 17(1) for unlawful association and was held at Loikaw Prison.

When Pye Maung Sine arrived at Loikaw Prison, he was already suffering from severe health issues due to torture and mistreatment by the military personnel, including a broken rib and respiratory infections. His condition deteriorated significantly, as reported by fellow inmates and close family members to Myanmar Now.

In April of this year, Pye Maung Sine developed advanced tuberculosis and his health declined further. Although he was granted the opportunity to be transferred to Loikaw’s city hospital for treatment, his condition worsened.