Burma Shuts Down Monastery Allegedly Linked to Protests

Burmese authorities have closed down a Rangoon monastery they believe was very active during monk-led pro-democracy demonstrations in September.

Security forces Thursday sealed-off the Maggin monastery, forcing two monks and six novices off the premises.

The monastery was raided at least four times following the September protests, and its abbot, U Indaka has been arrested and detained at an unknown location.

The Maggin monastery also provided housing for AIDS patients who came to Rangoon seeking treatment, but they also have been relocated.

In other news, U.N. envoy to Burma Ibrahim Gambari held talks Thursday with a Cambodian official aimed at finding a democratic solution to Burma's political crisis.

After their meeting, Cambodia's foreign minister, Hor Namhong noted the importance of improving relations between the Burmese government and detained pro-democracy opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Burma's Prime Minister, Then Sein is scheduled to arrive in Cambodia Friday for an official visit.