Misinformation: Steel mill accused of producing ammos, storing radioactive materials

Fake news circulating on social media platforms, including Facebook, falsely claims that the No (2) Steel Mill in Pangpet, Taunggyi Township, Shan State, is involved in producing ammunition and stockpiling radioactive materials.
These unsubstantiated reports also allege that the project poses a threat to the livelihoods of local farmers residing on the banks of the Namtabat Creek. They further claim that middle-aged residents are suffering from lung cancer due to the project, citing the Pa-O Youth Organization as their source.
A relevant official at the Ministry of Industry refuted these baseless claims, explaining that the mill exclusively uses hematite and limonite iron ores, along with raw materials such as silica and alumina in small percentages. The official emphasized that there is no discovery of uranium or plutonium, essential materials for producing nuclear weapons. Therefore, the official reassured the public that these claims are nothing more than fake news.
The mill, which produces 200,000 tonnes of pig iron annually, aims to meet the country’s demand for iron and steel. Its objectives include reducing the need for importing iron, supporting the local economy, and creating job opportunities.
The spread of false information on social media is attributed to “malicious media outlets”, which are considered an attempt to damage the country’s economy and create misunderstandings among the public. — MNA/NT