Chiang Mai, Oct 4. Lanna Action for Burma (LAB) comprising NGOs, human rights activists and Burmese students in Chiang Mai, gathered in front of the Chinese Consulate demanding that the government of China stop providing assistance and investment in Burma. They said China was the biggest arms seller to the Burmese junta, and had many investments including projects to drill for gas and lay a gas pipeline through Burma's Arakan state to China, and the Salween dams which led to violations of the human rights of ethnic minorities in the country.

The demonstrators shouted slogans in Thai, English, and Burmese calling for democracy, condemning the Burmese junta, and demanding the release of political prisoners and detainees. They gathered for about 40 minutes before dispersing.

Chiang Mai Governor Wibun Sa-gnaunpong headed to his van and left without speaking.

Before the protest, the new Chiang Mai Governor Wibun Sa-gnaunpong paid a visit to Chinese Consul Peng Leng Tong. He met the protesters when he came out, headed to his van and left without saying anything.

See clip of the protest at the Chinese Consulate in Chiang Mai

Religious groups pray for peace.

In the late afternoon, the Interfaith Group for Peace in Burma consisting of Buddhist, Christian, and Islamic organizations, NGOS, and youth groups held an activity on Tha Pae Rd, Chiang Mai, praying for those who were killed by the Burmese junta, and calling for peace.

The groups stated that the violence against the monks and people in Burma was unacceptable, and in violation of the principles of all religions.

They said more than 4,000 monks had been put in jail; many were detained in Insein prison which was notorious for torture. Some monks were forced to disrobe and wear prisoners' clothing instead. Many monks were rounded up and beaten at their monasteries, and taken away. About 200 monks had been detained at Bamo prison since Sept 27, and some 30 of them refused to accept food from the wardens and soldiers, so they were beaten.

They called for the Thai people to take part in activities, spread information, and support Burmese refugees in Thailand.

They will organize rallies and ‘peace walks' on Oct 4, 5, 6, and 8, and they will march to the Chinese Consulate on Monday 8 Oct.

Translated by Ponglert Pongwanan