November 1, 2024
Reports from residents indicate that authorities in Insein and South Dagon townships, Yangon Region, are targeting local youth with detentions and extortion in connection with military recruitment for the latest intake, known as “Batch 7.” Collaboration between the military, police, and local administrative councils has reportedly led to an increase in forced detentions and demands for bribes.
The recruitment efforts, beginning this November, have involved teams stationed at busy intersections in Insein Township, detaining young people on their way to and from work or school. “In Panne Kone ward of Insein, local officials are actively rounding up young people, entering homes where eligible youths are registered, and threatening family members if the youths are unavailable. If they cannot locate those eligible, they are detaining others they find on the streets,” said a local resident, describing how some officials carry sticks and handcuffs to intimidate residents.
Residents in Insein’s Kamnana Middle Quarter report that local officials have been demanding cash payments to exempt youths from military service under “Batch 7.” Families unable to pay are warned that their children will be forcibly recruited, and if they attempt to flee, relatives will be expected to find replacements. “If we pay, we’re exempted, but for those who cannot afford it, young people are detained. We’re hiding our nephews at home to protect them,” one resident of Kamnana Middle Quarter shared.
Similarly, in South Dagon Township, reports have emerged that a man named Myint Aung, allegedly sent by the township administrative committee, is requesting payments of 200,000 kyats from families to exempt young men from military service. Poor families who cannot pay are reportedly seeing their sons detained for forced conscription, while wealthier families are being pressured into making cash payments.
