Myanmar seizes precious stones in northernmost state

YANGON, March 17 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 22.9 kilograms of suspected uncut amber stones in Mokaung township, Kachin state, according to local police force on Sunday.

The amber stones in 17 bags were confiscated by the police when they intercepted an express bus heading from Tanai to Myitgyina at a checkpoint called Mayankahtaung on Friday afternoon.

Through investigation, the amber rocks were owned by three women.

Along with the driver, they were arrested and charged by the police for illegal transport of precious stones under Myanmar's Gemstone Law.