"The Ministry of justice and the Ministry of Defence have launched an investigation into incidents that took place in November last year, that appear to show unlawful killings by some, militants associated with the PDF in Sagaing region. It is a complicated story of accidental deaths due to mishandled explosives, apparently followed by killings in retribution, and more to attempt to cover-up the incidents. NUG Minister of Justice, U Thien Oo, in announcing the investigation, said these allegations, if true, would be a "very disturbing breach of discipline and an apparent abuse by these militants of the PDF's sacred responsibility to protect innocent civilians." He pledged that the investigation would "get to the truth of what happened and who was responsible." "No one is above the law, even in a time of conflict," he concluded. The regional commander, Boh Tanmani, said no such killings had been ordered, but admitted that, "Some comrades from the lower ranks might have lost their tempers and committed these killings. He added, "I have agreed to face the consequences if I am found guilty under the law and given a sentence." If sufficient evidence can be collected, "there will be trials and upon convictions, punishment." The NUG has been very clear that no battlefield killings that involve PDF soldiers taking the lives of innocent civilians will be permitted. It has conducted trains and briefings with regional commanders about the rules of war and international law, even in conflict..."