The body of U Winiya, which has been displayed in a glass coffin at a monastery on Tharmanya Hill since his death four years ago, was stolen on 1 April by a group of armed men in combat uniforms.

There was speculation after the incident that members of DKBA had been responsible for the theft, but a DKBA official has denied any involvement by the group.

The Karen National Union has also stated that its members did not play any part in the theft.