Western English Edition, Minbya (2025)

04/10/2023

Arakan Mrauk U's Rich Heritage Beckons Tourists, Awaits Peace and Stability for Thriving Tourism

Western News | October 4, 2023

As the 2023-2024 tourist season unfolds, Mrauk U anticipates the arrival of visitors, with hotels, guides, and local residents eager to showcase their historical heritage.

Mrauk U, the capital of the first Arakanese Kingdom, spans 7 by 6 km and boasts 200 Buddhist monuments, primarily constructed in the 15th and 16th centuries AD. It played a pivotal role in trade and warfare in the Bay of Bengal.

At present, the Mrauk U ancient civilization region enjoys stability and peace, free from armed conflicts, making it a safe and inviting destination for travelers from near and far.

A local tour guide from Mrauk U enthusiastically states, "With the tourist season underway, I extend a warm invitation to explore Mrauk U. In the past, conflicts deterred tourists, but today, the region enjoys tranquility. Ethnic tensions are no longer a concern. We look forward to welcoming both domestic and international tourists. The region is secure, ensuring safe travels."

Since 2012, Mrauk U faced misconceptions of religious conflicts and armed strife, deterring tourists. However, these misconceptions no longer hold true, as the region beckons visitors to experience its ancient heritage and natural beauty freely.

Ko Kyaw Win Tin, manager of Mrauk U Hotel, emphasizes the pivotal role of stability in driving tourism to Mrauk U. He states, "Stability and peace are paramount for tourism in Mrauk U. We eagerly await tourists from around the world. Mrauk U Hotel is now open and actively collaborating with travel agencies and international organizations. We have introduced special discounts. With the current regional stability, we anticipate an influx of tourists."

Tourists can access the ancient city of Mrauk U via the historic waterways and trade routes or by land. Kyaw Win Tin, the hotel manager, believes that constructing an airport for convenient air travel to Mrauk U would significantly boost tourism in this ancient realm.

An airport project was initiated during the tenure of former Prime Minister of Arakan, U Maung Maung Ohon, near Nang Kya Village, a short distance from the town. However, the project has yet to materialize.

During the 2022 tourist season, only 4,105 domestic tourists and 363 foreign tourists visited Mrauk U from January to December, as reported by the Hotel and Tourism Department- Arakan. U Ne Myo Htun, director of the Arakan Ministry of Hotel and Tourism Department, anticipates a surge in tourist numbers this year, given the current regional stability.

However, the Military Council omitted Mrauk U from its list of travel destinations in Myanmar published in September. The list features Ngapali Beach in Arakan, Man-Aung (Cheduba island) Beach, and Kyauk Phyu Beach, all located in Central Arakan. Locals criticize this omission, speculating it may have been intentional.

A resident voices concern, "The region is now peaceful. Why discourage travel to Mrauk U? Without conflicts or issues, advising against visiting Mrauk U is unjustified. Mrauk U relies heavily on agriculture and tourism. The economic impact of reduced tourism should not be underestimated."

Daw Khin Than, a resident dedicated to preserving the region's heritage, urges a reduction in military checkpoints along commercial routes to facilitate tourist entry to Mrauk U. She argues that strict inspections deter potential visitors, citing the need to enhance the region's appeal.
Travelers can reach Mrauk U from Yangon, Myanmar's former capital, by highway or by taking a plane to Sittwe, the capital city of Arakan, and then traveling by road or water. Reducing Military Council checkpoints along these routes would foster a sense of security, ensuring tourists' unhindered access to Mrauk U, she insists.

Increased tourist footfall would benefit local businesses, including restaurants, meat, fish, and vegetable vendors, transportation services, and hotels. Daw Khin Than underscores the significance of maintaining the region's cleanliness to attract more tourists. The tourism industry in Mrauk U hit rock bottom in 2012 due to conflicts and only began to recover after former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan's visit in 2016. However, the armed conflict between the Myanmar Military Army and the Arakan Army (AA), which escalated in late 2018, continued to hamper recovery efforts, severely impacting tourism.

Since November 26, 2022, a humanitarian ceasefire has held between the Myanmar coup army and the Arakan Army, resulting in a period of calm in Arakan. Arakan Army Spokesperson U Khaing Thukha confirmed the ceasefire's ongoing status, assuring that no confrontations with the coup Military are anticipated.

The armed conflict since 2018 caused a staggering 95% decrease in tourist arrivals to Mrauk U. This year's 2023 tourist season marks a hopeful turning point for tourism in Arakan, including the Mrauk U region.

Due to a low influx of tourists, especially foreign visitors, some local hotels such as Minthame Hotel, Prince Hotel, and Waitharli Hotel remain closed. Mrauk U residents are advocating for regional stability and improved transportation during this tourist season.

Min Aung Hlaing, leader of the coup military council, noted that over 600,000 international tourists visited Myanmar in the first seven months of 2023. The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020, has significantly affected the tourism-related economy, leading to a decline in job opportunities and foreign investments, as per data from the World Tourism Organization.

Western News- WN

03/10/2023

Health of Arakan Women Leader, Nyo Deteriorates in Prison, Lack of Access to Medical Care

Western News | October 3, 2023

Daw Nyo Aye, the president of Women's Network (Arakan), currently detained in Sittwe Prison, is experiencing a severe decline in her health, with no access to medical treatment outside of the prison.

Daw Nyo Aye was apprehended by the military council on August 15th, shortly after participating in the Rice Crisis Day event organized by Arakan Student Union on August 13th.

Following her arrest, a 505(a) case was filed against her. Her daughter informed Western News that her mother has been confined in Sittwe Prison, Arakan deprived of medical attention.

" My mother suffers from high blood pressure and diabetes. At today's court hearing, I learned that her blood pressure has reached 300, and my blood sugar level is at 160. Previously, she had high blood pressure and heart issues, but diabetes is a new concern. Her health has deteriorated significantly, and she is in critical condition without access to medical care," she said.

The trial for Daw Nyo Aye's case commenced on October 2nd, during which both plaintiffs were examined. The subsequent trial is scheduled for October 9th. Unfortunately, her family members are currently prohibited from visiting her in prison, and they are deeply anxious about her inability to receive essential medications.

In light of these circumstances, it is imperative to address the issue of medical treatment within prisons, especially for serious ailments. U Myat Tun, director of Human Rights Defenders Group, emphasized the need for improvement in prison healthcare.

"While there are doctors and clinics inside the prison, their capabilities are limited to handling minor ailments. Serious medical conditions pose a challenge, as prisoners face hurdles in seeking external medical care. This is particularly evident in cases like Daw Nyo Aye's, where access to external medical treatment is restricted due to ongoing trials. Therefore, enhancing prison medical facilities is crucial," he stressed.

A former inmate of Sittwe Prison shed light on the conditions of medical care under the military council's administration. "Generally, they only provide medication for minor ailments like runny noses or coughs. More serious health issues are often left unattended. We have witnessed cases where only those who could not get up were taken out for treatment," he shared.

In Arakan, numerous individuals are being persecuted for political offenses across various prisons, with an estimated total exceeding 100. The military council is actively seeking to apprehend members of the Arakan Students' Union who organized and participated in the Rice Crisis Day event on August 13. The union has declared a strike, expressing a lack of confidence in the military council's judiciary.

Western News-WN

03/10/2023

Daughter Allegedly R***d by Father in Myanmar's Arakan, Sparking Outcry

(Victim Already 8 Months Pregnant)

Western News | October 3, 2023

Allegations of a deeply distressing crime have surfaced from Minbyar township in Arakan, Myanmar, raising profound concerns about the safety of women in the region. According to credible sources, she was r***d by her own father within the Ahmuthan quarter of the MyoThit ward group in Minbyar town. It has been disclosed that the daughter is currently eight months pregnant.

An anonymous ward administrator has expressed their grave concern, remarking, "This heinous act by the father transpired within the confines of the Ahmuthan quarters, and this disturbing news came to light just last week. While we are aware of the daughter's pregnancy, we remain uncertain about the appropriate course of action." Out of respect for the family's privacy, their identities have not been revealed, as they have not granted consent for this sensitive information to be disclosed.

The victim's brother, who is closely related to the woman, has confirmed the r**e and her pregnancy status. He has encouraged those seeking further details to directly contact his sister, the victim. A resident of Minbyar town's Ahmuthan quarters expressed deep frustration, saying, "This tragic incident has not yet received the attention it deserves from the media. A comprehensive investigation and the imposition of appropriate penalties are imperative. The victim's family is resolute in their determination to expose this horrendous abuse."

Despite diligent efforts by Western News to reach out to officials from the ward and the quarter, contact has remained elusive. Additionally, attempts to communicate with the victim and her mother for insights into the r**e case have been thwarted by their lack of access to a phone.

Regrettably, as of this moment, relevant authorities have not taken action to initiate an investigation into this case, leaving the father accused of this heinous crime unpunished. Alarming reports from local residents indicate a disturbing surge in incidents of r**e and violence within Arakan. Consequently, there are urgent calls from both residents and civil society organizations for resolute measures against the perpetrators.

In a tragic incident that occurred just last month, on September 16th, a female middle school teacher from Kyun Paw Pauk Village in Rathedaung Township fell victim to a horrifying assault, followed by a brutal murder that left her throat slashed. The Arakan Army is actively pursuing this case, with at least nine suspects currently under scrutiny.

On September 29th, another chilling episode unfolded when a 4-year-old girl was subjected to a horrifying r**e, allegedly perpetrated by a 38-year-old man named U Zaw Win Maung, who resides in the same neighborhood. The parents of the young victim are demanding swift justice, calling for the arrest and thorough interrogation of the accused by Arakan Army police, as well as the imposition of the death penalty on the alleged ra**st.

A women's rights activist has voiced grave concern, emphasizing, "Women continue to suffer violence in Arakan, including horrifying cases of r**e. The response to these incidents has been woefully inadequate, emboldening perpetrators to act with impunity. This troubling trend demands immediate and decisive attention."

Tragically, these incidents are not isolated in Arakan. In March 2022, an 11-year-old girl was brutally assaulted and left abandoned, naked, on the train tracks in Sittwe, ultimately succumbing to her injuries in the hospital. Additionally, in 2022, an 18-year-old woman lost her life in Sittwe, under similarly distressing circumstances, further highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect the safety and dignity of women in the region.

Western News-WN

01/10/2023

Double Conviction: Woman Faces 40 Years with Connection to Arakan Army and 17 Years for Drugs

(Husband and Brother in Prison Long-Term for Similar Reasons)

Western News | October 1, 2023

Ma Khaing Khaing San, previously sentenced to over 40 years in prison on charges linked to the Arakan Army (AA), received an additional 17-year prison term on September 29, 2023, for drug-related offenses, as determined by the Mrauk U District Court, Arakan. Khaing is in the military government's prison.

The individuals accused under Section 19(a) of narcotics include Ma Khaing Khaing San, her brother, Naing Naing Tun, and her husband, Maung Bhu. In the latest verdict, Ma Khaing Khaing San, Naing Naing Tun, and Ko Maung Bhu were each sentenced to 17 years in prison, while Ko Maung Bhu received a 15-year sentence.

A family member expressed deep concern about the lengthy prison sentences and called for a reduction in punishments due to what they believe is insufficient evidence. The family member stated, "Again, both siblings have been imprisoned for 17 years, and Khaing Khaing San's husband for 15 years. It is truly distressing. The evidence in this case appears insufficient, and justice should prevail."

Ma Khaing Khaing San was apprehended in Yangon on August 26, 2019, along with her husband, facing charges in five Yangon Township courts, including Section 50(j), related to terrorism. These charges, including money laundering, resulted in a combined prison sentence of over 40 years for Ma Khaing Khaing San and over 30 years for her husband, who was incarcerated in Insein prison.

Ma Khaing Khaing San faced additional drug-related charges, with allegations of her involvement in a drug arrest at Ramaung Bridge Myanmar Army checkpoint , Minbyar Township, Arakan, in April 2023. She was transferred to Mrauk U prison to face trial on these drug charges.

The legal representative handling the case argued that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence to support the drug-related charges under Section 19(a) of the current verdict. U Myat Tun, director of the Human Rights Protection and Promotion Group (Arakan), also expressed concerns, stating, "This can be seen as unjust. No possession of drugs was found in the drug case, and the evidence appears weak. Imposing such severe penalties based on another person's statement violates legal rights. In previous cases, strong evidence was lacking. Therefore, it can be suggested that this is the result of the junta's suppression of the vulnerable."

Additionally, apart from the ongoing cases involving Ma Khaing Khaing San, the Military Council reported another drug-related case in Ann Township.

The Arakan Army was previously designated as a terrorist group by the former NLD government. Following the 2021 coup d'état, the military council removed this designation, leading to discussions about the potential release of those previously charged with terrorism. Although some individuals were released by the military commission, many, like Ma Khaing Khaing San, remain incarcerated.

In Arakan, where trials continue under the section of Unlawful Association in connection with the Arakan Army, there are still over 100 individuals in prison across Mrauk U, Sittwee, Ann, Kyauktaw, and Kyaukphyu Townships, according to the Human Rights Protection and Promotion Group's information.

Western News - WN

01/10/2023

Alarming Trend: 4-Year-Old Girl R***d in Arakan Mrauk U After Receiving Pocket Money

Western News | October 1, 2023

Disturbing reports have emerged regarding the alleged r**e of a 4-year-old girl in Mrauk U, Arakan, after being given 100 kyats (approximately 0.048 USD) as pocket money by a 38-year-old man.

On the morning of September 29, a young girl from Mrauk U's Sincha Saik ward was lured to a local market, enticed with 100 kyats as pocket money, and subsequently subjected to a sexual assault, according to eyewitnesses in the neighborhood. When the child was found, she displayed injuries on her head and limbs, and her genitalia showed signs of trauma, as reported by a source close to the child's family.

"Two young individuals, a couple, encountered the victim on their way to the pagoda and assisted her in returning home. Upon seeing the child again, we noticed injuries on her limbs and head, and she exhibited physical distress. I cannot emphasize this enough." a community said.

A family member said that the victim, who experienced abdominal bleeding, underwent a medical examination at Mrauk U Hospital the following day but has since returned home.

In our pursuit of information, Western News attempted to contact Dr. Khin Maung Than, the director of Mrauk U Public Hospital, but our efforts were unsuccessful. Local residents have highlighted the challenging economic circumstances faced by the child's family.

"They gave the child 100 kyats (approximately 0.048 USD) as pocket money. The girl, dressed in minimal clothing, fled downstairs, where she was discovered and rescued. The girl's family is grappling with severe financial difficulties," explained a woman residing in the neighborhood.

Regarding the alleged r**e, a 38-year-old individual named U Zaw Win Maung, residing in Latkauk Zay Ward, was apprehended from his residence last night by Arakan Army, according to the Sincha Seik ward administrator.

"His arrest occurred last night, with several witnesses observing him with the child. He can be described as someone who does not hold a regular job, frequently moving around. He often frequents the vicinity where the young girl lives," the administrator disclosed.

Reports have raised concerns over the prevalence of targeted violence, including sexual assault, against women in Arakan. Women's rights activists have criticized the inadequacy of effective measures in addressing these issues. "In Arakan, women are sadly frequent victims of violence, including r**e, with inadequate responses from those responsible. The measures in place to address these issues remain inadequate," stated a women's rights activist.

In March 2022, an 11-year-old girl was brutally assaulted and left naked on a railway track in Sittwe, Arakan resulting in her tragic death in the hospital.

Furthermore, in 2022, an 18-year-old woman lost her life in an incident on Mayu Street in Sittwe. Most recently, on September 16, 2023, a school female teacher was killed in Rathedaung Township.

Western News-WN

30/09/2023

Urgent Conservation Efforts Needed to Protect Southeast Asia's Second-Largest WunBaik Mangrove Forest: Arakan

Western News | September 30, 2023

In a concerning environmental development, Southeast Asia's second-largest mangrove forest,Wunbaik Reserved Mangrove Forest in Rambre Township, Southern Arakan, is facing a critical threat of illegal logging, resulting in a 75% depletion due to insufficient conservation efforts.

WunBaik Mangrove, sprawling across a vast expanse of 56,633 acres, plays a pivotal role in the region's ecosystem. Despite its significance, U Htwe Aung, Chairman of the Wumbaik Mangrove Conservation Group, has said that illegal logging continues unabated, with approximately 10 boats involved in illicit activities each month.

The challenges faced by this mangrove forest are immense, primarily owing to the sheer scale of the ecosystem and the limited conservation resources available. U Htwe Aung emphasizes the need for additional staff to effectively combat illegal logging, which threatens to devastate this critical habitat.

"Given the vastness of the mangrove forest, our current staffing levels are insufficient to deter illegal logging effectively. While we endeavor to stop illegal loggers and issue warnings, those apprehended with timber are reported to the relevant authorities," stated U Htwe Aung.

Illegal loggers, primarily hailing from Minbyar, Pauktaw, and Sittwee from Northern part of Arakan, are not only encroaching on the mangrove for personal land use but also for commercial gain, exacerbating the environmental crisis.

To address this pressing issue, the mangrove conservation group is planning to bolster their staff numbers and intensify conservation efforts, with an anticipated expansion to include approximately 100 additional personnel by November. Presently, only 30 mangrove guards are responsible for safeguarding this invaluable natural resource.

The significance of the mangrove forest is underscored by the involvement of villagers from more than 10 nearby communities, who have been actively engaged in conservation efforts since September 2021, filling a crucial void in conservatorship that existed before.

The Arakan coast once boasted over 400,000 acres of mangroves, but rampant logging has resulted in a substantial reduction, leaving just 200,000 acres of mangrove forest. Organizations such as Arakan Coastal Environmental Protection group are tirelessly working to reverse this alarming trend through sustained conservation initiatives.

Western News- WN

21/09/2023

International Labor Organization (ILO) and LWF Ignoring Workers' Calls for Justice and Compensation in Arakan, Myanmar

Western News | September 21,2023

The International Labor Organization (ILO) and the humanitarian organization LWF (Lutheran World Federation) are facing criticism for allegedly turning a blind eye to the demands of 80 employees who were terminated without compensation under harsh conditions.

These dismissed workers claim that LWF's Sittwe branch in Arakan fired them earlier this month due to their persistent request for full wages. Despite repeated pleas to the ILO and LWF headquarters for justice and compensation for the terminated employees, there has been no response thus far.

An anonymous female employee expressed her frustration, stating, "We have sent letters to the ILO and LWF officials on at least three occasions, yet we have received no response. We are simply demanding the rights and wages that we rightfully deserve. We are also urging other international organizations, including UNOCHA, to intervene and help resolve this matter."

The employees who were laid off contend that LWF not only terminated them without providing compensation but also reduced their wages. Among those terminated, 60% are Arakanese and while 40% are from ethnic minority groups, from northern Burma, and in the central region, including pregnant women and nursing mothers.

According to one former employee, LWF's practice of paying salaries at the Myanmar Central Bank rates, as opposed to private bank rates, places undue financial pressure on its workforce, exploiting the wage disparity.

The dismissed employees have raised concerns about the organization's recruitment of new staff to replace those who were terminated without addressing the underlying personnel issues. They also protested the re-hiring of certain individuals from the terminated group, alleging preferential treatment.

A civil servant from another international organization based in Arakan argued that LWF's lack of response amounted to a violation of its employees' human rights.

He emphasized the importance of organizations showing empathy for their hardworking employees and providing support rather than exerting undue pressure. Remaining silent on the workers' demands constitutes a breach of human rights, he noted, calling for coordination among international organizations, including the UN.

These LWF staff members are not only advocating for themselves but are also championing the rights of employees in other international organizations. Their fight for worker rights deserves support, not just from within Myanmar but also from international organizations operating in the country.

Western News reached out to LWF Myanmar and ILO Myanmar via email regarding the 80 employees' demands for justice, but no responses have been received to date.

The employees' key demands include: paying Burmese employees at private bank exchange rates, providing compensation, increasing basic salaries, ensuring transparency and accountability in currency exchange rates, and ending employee intimidation through terminations. They also call for an end to disparities in payment or exchange rates between international and national employees.

Western News-WN

21/09/2023

A Resident of Manaung Island, a businessman, Arrested Under Section 505(a)

Western News | September 21

This week, a local businessman and former NLD (National League for Democracy) supporter, U Sithu Aung, Burman ethnic, residing in Manaung Township (Island), was arrested and is now facing charges under Section 505(a). The arrest occurred on the 28th of September, yet the specific reasons behind this arrest remain undisclosed. The individual in custody is over 50 years old and is presently held at the Manaung City Police Station.

In the aftermath of the 2021 Myanmar coup d'état, the military junta made significant amendments to Section 505(a), which led to the criminalization of offenses related to "fake news" and "incitement" against the military. Subsequently, legal representatives of activists and politicians found themselves charged under this provision.

A local resident stated, "U Sithu has been a resident of Manaung for approximately 20 to 30 years. He relocated from Burma and subsequently married in Manaung. Engaged in a substantial business, U Sithu operates phone shops and manages Kpay and Wave Pay services. He has also been known to engage in political discourse. The reasons behind his arrest remain unclear."

Further investigations have revealed claims from within the community that suggest certain members of the military council may have harbored suspicions about U Sithu, the arrested individual.

"There might be support for PDF/NUG, although the veracity of these claims is yet to be confirmed. It is possible that there are individuals who are concerned about this," mentioned an insider close to the council.

Western News's inquiry has shed light on the fact that Manaung Township has experienced a notable surge in arrest warrants, possibly surpassing other townships in Arakan. Arrest warrants have been issued for residents from both urban and rural areas, including students attending Government nursing university courses.

"Shortly after the coup, there was a gathering in my community, which prompted me to investigate. It was then that I learned about these warrants. I suspect there might be more than three cases of this nature, primarily involving young students, and some of them are young ladies. Local media reporters have lso faced threats from military council," a city resident shared.

A local resident residing in a village within the heart of Manaung Township also disclosed, "Some elderly individuals have been summoned and questioned by authorities. A few of them are aged between 60 and 70. It appears that even those elders who may not discern whether PDF/NUG is an entity or a concept are being subjected to interrogation. I became aware of this due to our proximity to the affected village."

Manaung Township has, in recent times, shifted its political affiliations away from the NLD and USDP. The community has increasingly embraced Arakanese nationalism and has actively participated in it since 2018. In the 2020 elections, Arakan National Party emerged victorious, reflecting this shift. The township predominantly comprises Arakanese residents, with a minority of Chin people and small number of residents from various other regions.

Western News-WN

20/09/2023

Drug use among Arakan youth is on the rise

- Western News| September 20 , 2023

Reports indicate that drug trafficking is becoming more widespread in Arakan, with a growing number of Arakanese youths succumbing to drug use.

Various sources highlight that drugs, particularly ma*****na and WY pills, are readily available in many Arakan townships. According to an individual familiar with drug users, these substances are among the most commonly used in the region.

A resident of Sittwe, speaking about the prevalence of WY pill usage, mentioned that they typically consume 2 to 5 pills per day, with each pill costing 1,500 Kyats.

"There are many places that sell it, but I can't specify. The current price is about 1,500 Kyats per pill. I personally use 2 pills a day, sometimes 5. These substances are sold through various channels, mainly to users. Sales occur in houses and shops," the individual explained.

Furthermore, it was noted that the majority of drug users in Arakan range from the age of 10 to middle-aged individuals. There has been an alarming increase in users aged over 10, with a growing number of female users as well.

Ko U Than Naing, a representative of Arakan Students' Union, expressed concern about the worsening drug situation among Arakan's youth. He stressed the importance of law enforcement in addressing this issue, particularly amid political instability.

"Amid the political instability, the drug problem has become more prominent. In Arakan, drugs are now openly available. Economic difficulties are also pushing people into the drug trade. We have found that approximately 60 percent of Arakanese youths use ma*****na, and some use WY pills. The situation is particularly concerning in Sittwe. Solving this problem is not difficult if the government approaches it systematically," Ko U Than Naing stated.

In Arakan, Maungdaw and Sittwe districts have reported the highest numbers of drug seizures. While complaints have been filed with relevant authorities regarding drug use, local residents lament that little action has been taken to address the issue.

Residents of Mrauk U Township have noticed that the problem of drug sales is not confined to urban areas but has also extended to villages.

"As far as I can see, there are many young people in Mrauk U, Kyauktaw, and Minbyar involved in drug use. People even know where these substances are sold. Even in areas with limited transportation, there are representatives and sellers. If this continues, these areas may become as affected as the cities," one resident commented.

Arakan has become a conduit for the drug trade, with narcotics entering the region via both sea and land routes. Among these entry points, the highest volume of drug seizures has occurred. In 2021, drugs valued at 10 billion Kyats (approximately 5 million USD) were confiscated at the Maungdaw checkpoint. Over the last three months, from January to March 2023, seizures amounted to more than 1700 million Kyats worth of drugs.

A survey conducted by ISP Myanmar on September 15 revealed that drugs are easily accessible in Myanmar, with 93 out of 110 surveyed townships reporting ready availability.

In addition, according to the military council's data, drug seizures have been decreasing: 839 million Kyats in 2020, 667 million in 2021, 642 million in 2022, and only 446 million in 2023. This suggests a downward trend in drug seizures since the coup.

Western News-WN

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