Eight demonstrators arrested for peacefully protesting in Myanmar's largest city against a mining project have been freed on bail.

Aung Thein, the lawyer for two of the activists arrested in the last week of November, says all eight were freed Tuesday but face trial Dec. 24 on charges of inciting unrest. They were originally denied bail on the charge, which carries a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment.

They protested against the Letpadaung copper mine in northwestern Myanmar, alleging it causes environmental and social damage. They also protested against a violent crackdown on demonstrators at the site.

Separately, a prominent former activist monk arrested Dec. 1 was freed Monday and will not face charges.

The mother of Shin Gambira, also known as Nyi Nyi Lwin, said it remained unclear why he was detained.