Dozens of Villagers Arbitrarily Arrested Amid Junta Troop Movements in Laung Lone Township

June 18, 2025

HURFOM: At least 30 local villagers have been arbitrarily arrested by junta forces advancing through villages near Laung Lone town in Dawei District, according to family members of those detained and local residents.

The arrests began on June 14, when a column of junta soldiers moved from Laung Lone town toward Sit Pyae village. After occupying a local school and monastery, the troops continued their march over the next several days, passing through Lay Thone Khan and Ka Htaung Ni villages before reaching Kanyon Kyun by June 17.

As the troops pushed through the villages, they arrested people along the way—including those walking to their farms, sheltering inside their homes, or working in the fields. According to several sources, more than 30 individuals were taken.

“They came in the heavy rain, so there was little time to escape. We didn’t even hear any warning. It was pouring that day, and junta troops were firing artillery as usual,” said a relative of one of the detainees.

Eyewitnesses reported that junta soldiers detained anyone they came across—regardless of age or gender—including women, elderly people, and mothers with children.

Some of the detained villagers were reportedly being held in Kanyon Kyun, while others were transported by water route to Dawei town, according to local sources.

In addition to the arrests, junta troops have been ransacking homes, destroying property, and burning motorcycles in Kanyon Kyun and nearby villages. Multiple residents confirmed that looting and arson had taken place.

As of now, the military column remains stationed in Kanyon Kyun, forcing residents from at least five villages—Ka Htaung Ni, Lay Thone Khan, Sit Pyae, Nyin Maw, and Wai Dee—to flee into nearby forests or plantations for safety.

HURFOM condemns these ongoing acts of violence and intimidation against innocent civilians, which continue to drive displacement and fear across Tanintharyi Region.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News