North Korea

Desperate farmers in North Korea steal insulating plastic film from each other

Guards have been doubled to stop the theft, driven by a dearth of imports from China.

Laos

16 Indians rescued from scam operations in Laos

Traffickers transported them from Mumbai to work in the Golden Triangle.

Laos

Rising theft of cables and bolts along the Laos-China railway

Police arrested 71 people last year for stealing the equipment – probably to raise cash.

South China Sea

In isolated South China Sea territory, Filipino fisherman see ‘dwindling catch’

Islanders blame Chinese, Vietnamese ships’ use of dynamite and cyanide for destroying coral reefs.

Vietnam

2 Vietnamese bloggers charged for criticizing death penalty case

They were charged under Article 331, often used to suppress dissent and criticism.

China

Chinese cities ban burning of 'ghost money' ahead of grave festival

The move sparks a public outcry after officials say paper offerings for the dead are 'feudal superstition.'

Vietnam

2 Vietnamese bloggers charged for criticizing death penalty case

They were charged under Article 331, often used to suppress dissent and criticism.

Myanmar students take classes at monastery to escape junta attacks